Thoughts on Discipleship by Dr. W. A. Dillard - HTML preview

WHAT DID SOLOMON DO THAT WAS SO RIGHT?

Ranking at the top of intellectually stimulating reading in the Bible are the books of

Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. These books were written by Solomon, Son of David, King of

Israel. He remains the wisest sinner who ever lived. His forty-year reign was the most

glorious Israel ever had, and in it the nation rose to the zenith of its history. The construction

of the temple and other great works were done in a time of unparalleled peace. So, one may

wonder in view of these things just what did Solomon do that was so right?

There are always a number of things in the lives of people that others may point to and say

they are the underlying cause. However, it is always the more simple things that are the most

profound. Such is certainly true in the case of Solomon.

When Solomon was anointed King of Israel succeeding his father, David, he understood

that the magnitude of the task was overwhelming. He did not see his unique position as a

springboard to fulfilling fleshly desires and wallowing in luxury. These are common failures of

so many. Instead, he took the responsibility of his position quite seriously and felt unequal to

the task. In that frame of mind, Solomon earnestly prayed to the God of heaven for wisdom to

lead the people of God. He did not pray for health, wealth, fame or any of the other common

things men covet.

Accordingly, God both heard and answered his prayer. Moreover, God gave Solomon

much more than he asked. God gave him wisdom such as no man before him had possessed,

and that no man after him would possess. He said In words later penned, “Trust in the LORD

with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge

him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Solomon looked to God, he trusted God, and sought the

help of God to fulfill the task that life had brought to him. What Solomon did was so right!

What about you? Do you look to His word for instructions about decisions you must make?

If you do, then you are following the example of Solomon and it is so right!

FOR THOUGHT: Do you operate in the power and wisdom of yourself? Do you trust primarily in the advice of others? So many live their lives this way and it is wrong. Do you look to God in prayer for wisdom to live life as it pleases Him?