Tuesday September 2, 2014 Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of yours? 1 Kings 3:9, NLT What makes a man wise? Does it come from the number of books he has read or the number of degrees he has received? Does it have something to do with his stock of common sense? True wisdom is more than these things. It involves the ability to discern what the real issue is in a situation, then making a well-reasoned decision based on what is known. J. Oswald Sanders describes it as the right application of knowledge in moral and spiritual matters, in handling dilemmas, in negotiating complex relationships. Without wisdom, a man is destined to fail. King Solomon understood the necessity of wisdom in his role as leader of Israel. When God appeared in a dream and offered him whatever he wanted, Solomon chose a heart of wisdom so he could do his job effectively. The Lord was pleased with his request and said, I will give you a wise and understanding heart such as no one else has had or ever will have! (1 Kings 3:12). This wisdom was quickly put to the test when two women came to Solomon regarding a dispute over a baby each claimed was hers. Solomon thought about it and then asked for a sword. He announced that both ladies would be given half of the child. This prompted two quite different responses in the ladies. One showed compassion; the other urged the king to carry out his plan. In the end, Solomons wisdom led to the discovery of the babys true mother. Sometimes decisions have to be made in challenging situations. Like Solomon, we should ask God to provide guidance and understanding before reaching any conclusion. In this way, our decisions will truly be seen as wise.
Posted on: Tue, 02 Sep 2014 10:59:45 +0000