Solomon had a dream in which God invited him to ask for what he thought God ought to give him (1 Kings 3:5). Solomon asks for the ability to decide between good and evil (1 Kings 3:9). God is pleased with Solomon’s request and grants the wish (1 Kings 3:11-12). God promises a long life if Solomon keeps God’s commandments (1 Kings 3:14. Then, Solomon woke up from the dream (1 Kings 3: 15).
God did indeed give Solomon great wisdom for making decisions. Biblical tradition says that the Book of Proverbs is a collection of the wise things that Solomon expressed (Proverbs 1:1).
When we use our own insights and our own devices to determine what is good and what is evil, we shall often miss the mark. Human standards are not the same as divine standards. As Jesus prayed, “Not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42).
How do we determine what is good and what is evil? One way is to ask “Which one looks more like Jesus?”
How do we determine what is good and what is evil? One way is to reflect on how the Scriptures speak to the issue.
How do we determine what is good and what is evil? One way is to confer with others who are on the journey.
How do we determine what is good and what is evil? One way is to submit oneself to steady and constant prayer.
Solomon’s wisdom to do the right thing came from recognizing that the source of that wisdom is God. It’s hard to improve on that!
What Someone Else Said: In You Are Not Special (Ecco), David McCullough, Jr., wrote: “...live deliberately (as opposed to automatically), pay attention, front the facts, come to know by experience, eschew nonsense, give true account, be wary of canned answers, know what you’re for, try your best. This is wisdom.”
Prayer: As you prepare this lesson, let your prayer begin: “O Holy One, Who with care spoke to Solomon, come now and speak to me. Speak to me so that my service will be according to Your will...”
