“So give Your servant a discerning heart to overn your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of Yours?” 1 Kings 3:9
Solomon started his life walking closely with the Lord. After David his father died and Solomon became king, God appeared to him in a dream and asked him what he wanted most of all. Most people would probably have asked for riches, honour, health, a long life; but Solomon asked for discernment in governing the people of Israel. This pleased God (1 Kin. 3:10) and He did indeed give Solomon discernment and wisdom in matters concerning government of the people. In addition, God also gave him the things he had not asked for: riches and honour (1 Kin. 3:13).
Solomon did indeed appreciate the value of wisdom and discernment (even if he didn’t apply very much to his personal life in choosing hundreds of wives and concubines). “Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding” (Prov. 4:7). The Proverbs have much to say about wisdom and discernment, and how the lack of these will result in a person’s downfall. We can all strive to be more discerning, and asking God to help us in this is a sure way to obtain it (Jas. 1:5).
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