Last updated on August 30th, 2024 at 04:28 am
King Solomon, the wisest and richest of them all, is a big deal in the Bible. His life holds timeless lessons for us. Let’s dive into 7 lessons we can learn from the rich fabric of King Solomon’s life.
1. Seek Wisdom Like King Solomon
Solomon’s wisdom was a gift from God and the foundation of his kingdom. We can learn from his example. Just as Solomon put knowledge first, we can too.
Proverbs 4:7 (NIV) says “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.”
2. Practice Discernment in Decision-Making
Challenges requiring discernment came at Solomon’s doorstep. His ability to know right from wrong guided him through tough decisions. Discernment helps us make wise choices and avoid unnecessary mistakes.
Proverbs 3:21 (NIV) says “My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion.”
One of my high school teachers taught us that a clever person learns from their own mistakes but a wise person learns from other people’s mistakes.
Buy the truth and do not sell it, wisdom, instruction, and insight as well -Proverbs 23:23 (NIV).
Many people have gone before us and experienced what we are experiencing today. Therefore, we have all the knowledge and wisdom available.
3. Value Relationships, as King Solomon Did
Solomon valued relationships, alliances, and family ties. While his approach may not be our approach, the idea of nurturing healthy relationships is still relevant. Our relationships with family, friends, and colleagues make up a full life.
Ecclesiastes 4:12 (NIV) says “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
There is a saying in networking that says, “It’s not what you know but who you know”. It means that one’s network of personal contacts is more important than their knowledge and skills. As Apostle Joshua Selman says. “The quickest way to rise in life is through relationships”. When God has lifted you, the purpose of that lifting is to establish relationships that will sustain you in your lifetime.
4. Be Humble in All Things
Despite being rich and powerful, Solomon was humble and acknowledged his dependence on God. Humility helps us grow and be empathetic. It keeps us grounded and aware of our strengths and weaknesses.
Proverbs 22:4 (NIV) says “Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.”
It’s easy to forget where you came from after you have achieved your goal. Success and wealth are tempting. As they say, power corrupts. Remembering your roots keeps you grounded and helps you appreciate the journey and the people who were with you along the way. It cultivates gratitude and sense of purpose, reminding us of our humble beginnings and the lessons we learned from our past. Staying vigilant against these temptations helps us stay integrity and authenticity. We must keep our priorities in check and use our success for others and not just for ourselves.
5. Be Generous, a Virtue of King Solomon
Solomon was generous in his support for the temple and the needy. His example shows us the joy of giving. Generosity benefits others and ourselves. Acts 20:35 (NIV) says “It is more blessed to give than to receive”. When we are generous we build a legacy of kindness and compassion and have a positive impact beyond our immediate circle. It also creates a sense of community and togetherness, reminding us we are all part of something bigger than ourselves.
1 Kings 8:63 "Solomon offered a sacrifice of fellowship offerings to the Lord: twenty-two thousand cattle and a hundred and twenty thousand sheep and goats. So the king and all the Israelites dedicated the temple of the Lord."
6. Be Integrous, a Foundation of Solomon’s Character
Solomon’s character was integrity and that earned him respect. Integrity means aligning our actions with our values and building trust in our relationships. Integrity means being honest and transparent in all we do, even when it’s hard. It means making decisions that reflect our values and staying true to our word. It strengthens our personal and professional relationships and our reputation and self respect.
Proverbs 11:3 "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity."
7. Learn from Mistakes, like Solomon did
Despite his wisdom, Solomon made mistakes, we are all human. Acknowledging and learning from our mistakes is key to growth. Proverbs 24:16 (NIV) says “For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again”. Mistakes are inevitable but they are also opportunities to learn. Embracing them with humility helps us gain insights and improve. This mindset makes us resilient and persevering, able to adapt and grow stronger with each challenge we face. It also creates a culture of continuous improvement and lifelong learning.
Proverbs 24:16 "for though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again, but the wicked stumble when calamity strikes."
So there you have it, King Solomon’s life lessons. Seek wisdom, be discerning, be generous, uphold integrity and learn from mistakes and we will live life on purpose and full of life. Check out our post on how to apply bible lessons in your life. May these help us on our journey and our loved ones.
