Solomon’s Wisdom: What Can We Learn About Making Godly Decisions?

Solomon’s Wisdom: What Can We Learn About Making Godly Decisions?

Introduction

When we think of wisdom in the Bible, one name often rises above the rest— King Solomon . Famed for his insight and celebrated for his understanding, Solomon’s wisdom was a divine gift that shaped the nation of Israel and left a lasting spiritual legacy. His ability to make decisions with clarity, depth, and justice provides a powerful blueprint for believers today who seek to walk in God’s will.

As modern life presents us with countless choices—career paths, relationships, ethical dilemmas, and spiritual challenges—we can look to Solomon for guidance. What made him wise? How did he approach decision-making? And more importantly, how can we seek and apply godly wisdom in our own lives?

Solomon's Request for Wisdom: A Humble Beginning

The foundation of Solomon’s wisdom was his humble request to God . When Solomon became king after his father David, he was young and inexperienced. God appeared to him in a dream and offered to give him anything he asked. Instead of riches, long life, or power, Solomon asked:

“Give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong.” —1 Kings 3:9

God was pleased by this selfless request. In response, He granted Solomon unparalleled wisdom, along with wealth and honor.

Lesson #1: Godly decision-making begins with humility.

Solomon recognized his limitations and turned to God for help. Likewise, when we acknowledge our need for divine guidance and seek wisdom with the right motives, God responds generously.

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God… and it will be given to you.” —James 1:5

The Case of the Two Women: Applying Wisdom in Justice

One of the first and most well-known demonstrations of Solomon’s wisdom came with the case of two women who claimed to be the mother of the same baby . Without the benefit of witnesses or evidence, Solomon proposed to divide the child in two.

The real mother, moved by compassion, immediately offered to give up her claim to save the child’s life. Solomon instantly recognized her as the true mother and awarded her the child.

This account (1 Kings 3:16–28) is not only a testament to Solomon’s cleverness but also to his understanding of human nature , justice, and discernment.

Lesson #2: Godly wisdom balances truth with compassion.
Good decisions aren’t just about facts—they’re about insight, empathy, and justice . Solomon’s wisdom was effective because it aligned with God’s heart: preserving life, defending the innocent, and upholding truth.

The Source of Wisdom: Fear of the Lord

Solomon’s teachings in the Book of Proverbs , traditionally attributed to him, repeatedly highlight a key principle:

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” —Proverbs 9:10

This “fear” doesn’t mean terror—it means deep reverence and awe of God. It’s an acknowledgment that God is holy, sovereign, and supremely wise. This reverence is the foundation for all godly thinking and ethical behavior.

Lesson #3: Revering God shapes wise choices.
When we center our lives on God, our decisions become clearer. We begin to weigh our choices not by what is popular or easy, but by what is righteous and aligned with God’s will.

Building the Temple: Prioritizing God’s Presence

One of Solomon’s greatest accomplishments was the building of the Temple in Jerusalem —a place where God’s presence would dwell among His people. The task was monumental, yet Solomon approached it with care, devotion, and excellence.

He ensured that the temple reflected God’s holiness and majesty , dedicating years to its construction and offering a profound prayer of dedication upon its completion (1 Kings 8). He prayed for God’s guidance, presence, and mercy for all who would worship there.

Lesson #4: Godly wisdom places God at the center of all plans.
Solomon understood that no project, no success, no ambition matters if God is not in it. Our decisions, whether personal or professional, must be rooted in the desire to honor God and invite His presence into every aspect of our lives.

The Wisdom Literature: Legacy of Discernment

Solomon is traditionally credited with writing Proverbs , Ecclesiastes , and Song of Songs —books rich in wisdom, reflection, and spiritual insight.

• Proverbs is a treasure chest of practical advice on relationships, finances, speech, work ethic, and moral integrity.

• Ecclesiastes offers a philosophical reflection on life’s meaning and the futility of chasing worldly pleasures.

• Song of Songs presents a poetic celebration of love and beauty within God’s design.

These books reveal that wisdom is not only intellectual—it’s spiritual, emotional, and relational.

Lesson #5: Godly wisdom is holistic.
It’s not confined to sermons or theology. It’s found in how we treat people, how we speak, how we manage our time and money, and how we navigate life’s joys and sorrows.

Solomon’s Downfall: When Wisdom Was Ignored

Despite his wisdom, Solomon made tragic mistakes later in life. He married many foreign wives, who turned his heart toward other gods (1 Kings 11:1–6). He allowed idolatry into Israel and strayed from God’s commands.

These decisions led to the weakening of his kingdom and ultimately division after his death.

Lesson #6: Wisdom must be consistently applied.
Even the wisest among us are vulnerable if we drift from God. Wisdom is not a one-time gift—it’s a daily pursuit. We must guard our hearts , stay grounded in Scripture, and remain accountable to godly influences.

How Can We Apply Solomon’s Wisdom Today?

Let’s explore practical ways we can incorporate Solomon’s example into our daily decision-making:

1. Seek God First

Begin every decision—big or small—with prayer. Invite the Holy Spirit into your thought process. Ask not just for answers, but for discernment.

2. Listen Before You Act

Solomon listened to the two women before making a judgment. Learn to listen well—to God, to others, and to your conscience.

3. Study God’s Word

Proverbs is a daily manual for living wisely. Let Scripture shape your values, inform your ethics, and guide your steps.

4. Surround Yourself with Godly Counsel

Solomon also had wise advisors. We are not meant to make major decisions alone. Seek mentors, pastors, or mature believers who can offer biblical perspective.

5. Pursue Integrity

Wisdom without integrity leads to ruin. Make decisions you can stand by. Choose the harder right over the easier wrong.

6. Stay Humble

No matter how wise or experienced you become, remember that true wisdom comes from God. Stay teachable and open to correction.

Conclusion: A Call to Discernment

Solomon’s life is a powerful reminder that wisdom is both a gift and a responsibility . God desires to lead us, to help us navigate the complexities of life with grace, discernment, and righteousness.

The choices we make reflect who we trust. Will we lean on our own understanding, or will we invite the wisdom of heaven into our decisions?

Whether you're facing a career change, a relationship decision, or a spiritual dilemma, know this: God delights in giving wisdom to those who ask.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” —Proverbs 3:5–6

Prayer

Lord God,
Thank You for the example of Solomon and the wisdom You granted him. Help me to seek Your will in all my decisions. Give me a discerning heart, a humble spirit, and a mind that values truth over convenience. Teach me to listen to Your voice and follow the path of righteousness, even when it’s difficult. May Your Word be a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. In every choice I make, may You be glorified. In Jesus’ name, Amen.