Chapter 13 - The King Who Had it All

The story of Solomon is simply amazing. Having asked for wisdom to administer the nation of Israel, God grants not only that request but gives him a dose of wealth and honor that few have ever known. Reading through this chapter Solomon reminds me of those commercials featuring The Most Interesting Man in the World. You know, the guy described by the following:

• "He is the life of parties he never attended."
• "He once had an awkward moment, just to see how it felt."
• "He's won trophies for his game face alone."
• "His words carry weight that would break a less interesting man's jaw."
• "Sharks have a week dedicated to him."
• "He can speak French, in Russian."
• "At museums he is allowed to touch the art."
• "He bowls overhand."

Solomon is THE MAN! Kings and Queens from all over come to sit as his feet and marvel at his wealth and wisdom. Nobles from around the world send extravagant gifts in tribute to this noted king. Solomon - builder of temples, dispenser of wisdom, proprietor of unimaginable wealth!

Solomon stands as an example of what God really wants for everyone. For those who humbly come before him, God wants to grant us more than we can even think or imagine. However, lost in all the bling is the greatest gift Solomon possesses - the wisdom of the Lord. His original request was his best and although he seems to have forgotten that along the way (how wise is it for a man to have 700 wives and 300 concubines) he does seem to make full circle at the end of his life when in Ecclesiastes he is credited with this famous finale--- Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. (Ecclesiastes 12:13)

We would do well to repeat Solomon's request. Years later James reminds us that God is always inclined to dispense wisdom: If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. James 1:5

I ask God for many things, but lately this request seems to have lost its way off the list. Thanks to Solomon, wisdom will now occupy its proper place - top priority!