Wisom

"God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change
The strength to change the things I can
And the wisdom to know the difference"

There is a story in 1 Kings 3:16-28. The one when two prostitutes went before King Solomon with a dilemma. They both claimed to be the mother of the same child. King Solomon wisely decrees that the only fair thing to do is split the baby in half giving each woman part of the child. At hearing this one of the women agrees with the verdict; but the other woman cries out that the baby should be given to the other woman instead of gruesomely killing him. Solomon knew this would be the reaction of the true mother of the child so he gives the bay to his rightful mother. He knew the real mother would rather let another woman raise her child than see him killed. Solomon had a great insight into the nature of people; he knew how different people would react in different circumstances.

Reflection

1. In the first prayer, why is wisdom so important?
2. In the story, how does Solomon’s wisdom help him resolve the dispute?
3. I’m sure that like me sometimes we learn things the hard way… but other times God grants us the wisdom to know without making that mistake. What were some reasons we made those mistakes? Did we forget to stop and think? Should we all pray for wisdom?

Take the Next Step

Proverbs 16:28 Even a fool, when he holds his peace, is counted wise: And he that shuts his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.

The book of Proverbs provides God’s instructions on how to deal with practical affairs of everyday life: how to relate to God, family, neighbors, and government. I challenge you to read the Book of Proverbs. You may learn something about others, life, and yourself.