Pray to Understand
The Book of Proverbs in the Bible is attributed to Solomon, but who was he and why is his wisdom memorable?
Solomon was the son of the great King David who had conquered Israel’s enemies and ruled for forty years. Solomon was the last king of the united kingdom of Isreal and ruled a much larger region of confederated states. He became king at a young age and recognized his inexperience, so he humbly prayed to God, “O Lord my God, you have made your servant king in place of David my father, although I am but a little child. I do not know how to go out or come in. And your servant is in the midst of your people whom you have chosen, a great people, too many to be numbered or counted for multitude. Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?” (1 Kings 3:7-9 ESV)
“It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this.” And God granted Solomon’s request.
Imagine the vast variety of issues he must have dealt with as the Supreme Head of State, including: economics, international affairs, public works and infrastructure, homeland security, public safety, employment issues, and domestic issues, such as the first case he heard that made him famous: two prostitutes arguing over ownership of a baby, see 1 Kings 3:16-28.
Still, why is a book written 3,000 years ago so important to you and me today?
Because King Solomon wrote by inspirited observation of human nature and through honest soul-searching—human nature hasn’t changed at all; and soul-searching seems to be a rare exercise these days as we speed from one task to the next, barely catching our breath or interacting with our family in our vain pursuit to relax or be entertained in our “down time.”
Solomon was smart, but having brain power isn’t the same as having wisdom. How many smart people create things without considering the ramifications and consequences beyond simply conquering the elements or doing what no one has done before? How many smart government officials create laws without considering the aggregate of the legal burdens being placed upon the public? How many smart parents abstain from necessary instruction and discipline and delegate the rearing of their children to others? How many smart people end up on the wrong side of the law and morality, even justifying torture and murder in their quest for power? How many times do you find yourself doing things you later regret but find you can’t escape a particular pattern of behavior?
Solomon understood and prayed to God recognizing that God is the source of knowledge and wisdom. “Give your servant,” he asked, recognizing also that obedience to God is essential, “an understanding mind… that I may discern between good and evil.”
The Power of Proverbs comes when you take godly instruction seriously.
Today, pray for an understanding mind.
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