Acquiring Wisdom

That night God appeared to Solomon and said to him, "Ask for whatever you want me to give you." Solomon answered God,..."Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people."--God gave Solomon wisdon and very great insight, and a breadth of understanding as measureless as the sand on the seashore.

2 Chronicles 1:7-8, 10; 1 Kings 4:29

WISDOM is the ability to make good decisions based on proper discernment and judgment. KNOWLEDGE in this verse, refers to the practical know-how necessary for handling everyday matters. Solomon used his wisdom and knowledge not only to build the temple from his father's plans, but also to put the nation on firm economic footing.

God's offer to Solomon stretches the imagination: "Ask for whatever you want me to give you" (2 Chron. 1:7). But Solomon put the needs of his people first and asked for wisdom rather than riches. He realized that wisdom would be the most valuable asset he could have as king. Later, he wrote wisdom "is most precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her" (Prov. 3:15). The same wisdom that was given to Solomon is available to us; the same God offers it.
How can we acquire wisdom?
First, we must ask God "who gives generously to all without finding fault" (James 1:5).



Second, we must devote ourselves wholeheartedly to studying and applying God's Word, the source of divine wisdom.

Solomon could have had anything, but he asked for wisdom to rule the nation. Because God approved of the way Solomon ordered his priorities, he gave Solomon wealth, riches, and honor as well. Jesus also spoke about priorities. He said that when we put God first, everything we really need will be given to us as well (Matthew 6:33). This does not guarantee that we will be wealthy & famous like Solomon, but it means that when we put God first, the wisdom He gives will enable us to have richly rewarding lives. When we have a purpose for living & learn to be content with what we have, we will have greater wealth than we could ever accumulate.