Solomon is remembered for the great temple he built, for his administrative wisdom, and for the splendor of his court. Who can forget Christ's comment about the lilies of the field: "Even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these." (Matthew 6:29)? Under Solomon the kingdom of Israel reached its zenith. His fleet plied the seas "Bringing gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks....the whole earth sought the presence of Solomon to hear his wisdom" (1 Kings 10:22,24).
But he also oppressed his people. He forced labor to build the temple, and he imposed heavy taxes to support his government. This oppression led to rebellion and the splitting of his kingdom.
What is the difference between knowledge and wisdom?
How can we become wiser?
PRAYER: Help us, Lord, to learn from our mistakes and the mistakes of others so that we do not repeat them. - AMEN!