1 Kings 3:9 (NIV)- So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?
Part of growth and maturity is understanding how to best use your knowledge. Many powerful people have great knowledge but lack the wisdom on the right use of this knowledge. Because wisdom is the missing link or their wisdom is compromised, they tend to guide others solely with knowledge. Knowledge alone is not sufficient to lead others. Something that is compromised is unable to function optimally. I akin this to a ship lost in the ocean without a compass.
King Solomon was on the right path (See 1 Kings 3-4). He realized that having knowledge without the right application could harm his leadership. So instead of asking God for riches and other things, he asked God for wisdom. God granted Solomon wisdom and much more. Imagine asking God simply for wisdom. Ensuring that your wisdom is not compromised. As humans, many situations will present to lead us to solely rely on knowledge.
Today’s verse is a reminder of Solomon’s ask to God for wisdom, “So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?” Today I encourage you to read 1 Kings 3-4. Ask God for wisdom and watch him over deliver.
Dear God,
Thank you for the reminder that sometimes all we need to request from you is wisdom. You will show me how to best apply the knowledge with which you have equipped me. I pray that all your children seek a discerning heart to distinguish between right and wrong. That they understand that knowledge with the proper application is wisdom. I ask this in your son Jesus’ name. Amen!
Ilka V. Chavez