Why Solomon Asked for Wisdom

Photo by Gabriel Ghnassia

Solomon was the wisest man of the pre-Christian era (exceeded only by Christ Himself). His wisdom is proverbial, and it was sought by all the nations of the earth. In fact, all the great wisdom traditions of the world arise not long after "all the kings of the earth sought the presence of Solomon, to hear the wisdom God had put in his heart" (2 Chron. 9:23).

Solomon's wisest moment, however, came when God appeared to him in the night and said, "Ask! What shall I give you?" (2 Chron. 1:7) The wisest request Solomon ever made was the request he made for wisdom from God. But have you ever wondered why Solomon asked for wisdom? Why didn't he ask for riches, long life, or the life of his enemies (2 Chron. 1:11)?

Solomon asked for wisdom for several reasons: 1) The Example from the Past (2 Chron. 1:8)--David had led the nation well, and Solomon didn't want to fail. 2) The Enormity of the Task (2 Chron. 1:9)--he said that the people were a "multitude like the dust of the earth," and he needed wisdom. 3) The Expectation of his Trust--Solomon knew that leadership is a trust from God, as well as a gift from Him. He also knew that every leader will stand one Day before the King to give an account of this trust, and he didn't want to be ashamed on that Day. So he asked for Wisdom.

One day you too will give account of the trust and gifts God has given you. On that Day, you will long to be unashamed. Are you feeling Solomon's feelings yet--do you need wisdom from God?