The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. (Ps. 111:10)
KNOWN AS THE WISEST MAN who ever lived, it’s hard to imagine a life more blessed by God than that of King Solomon. Upon Solomon’s ascent to the throne as a young man, the Lord appeared to him in a dream, promising him anything he wanted. Solomon’s request for discernment and understanding pleased God so much that not only did Solomon receive that for which he asked, but God also poured out upon him the wealth and power for which he didn’t ask.
People came from far and wide to glean from Solomon’s store of wise sayings and judgments, and to admire his wealth and civic projects. Buildings, roads, gardens, and of course the glorious first temple made Jerusalem the capital of wealth, culture, and religion. And while Solomon’s many accomplishments are noteworthy and are what he is most known for, his accumulation of idolatrous wives quickly drew his heart away from the Lord, ultimately making him an example of how easily a person can fall even when surrounded by every imaginable benefit.
Sadly, the man who penned so many wise proverbs became a proverb himself—not of wisdom, but of warning. Enjoying so much success and yet failing in one fundamental point turned this wise man into a fool. Solomon lost his awe and reverence of the Lord. When we lose sight of this, we leave behind what’s most important.
Remind yourself today of God’s worthiness to be revered.
Bill Beck loves spending time in the outdoors hiking, camping, and enjoying God’s creation. He and his wife, Lisa, live in South Dakota.
