Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this
people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours? 2 Chronicles
1:10
Footnote: God's offer to Solomon stretches the
imagination: "Ask for whatever you want me to give you" (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 more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can
compare with her" (Proverbs 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.
1:11, 12 Footnote: 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 and 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 and learn to be content with
what we have, we will have greater wealth than we could ever
accumulate.
Keep reading -- 122 days left!
All footnotes taken from the Life Application Study Bible, NIV
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