Solomon
17
upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
James 1:5
. When a burden
bearer desires wisdom more than he desires wealth, power, or fame, he
will not be disappointed. Such a one will learn from the Great Teacher
not only what to do, but how to do it in a way that will meet with the
divine approval.
So long as he remains consecrated, the man whom God has en-
dowed with discernment and ability will not manifest an eagerness for
high position, neither will he seek to rule or control. Of necessity men
must bear responsibilities; but instead of striving for the supremacy,
he who is a true leader will pray for an understanding heart, to discern
between good and evil.
The path of men who are placed as leaders is not an easy one.
But they are to see in every difficulty a call to prayer. Never are they
to fail of consulting the great Source of all wisdom. Strengthened
and enlightened by the Master Worker, they will be enabled to stand
firm against unholy influences and to discern right from wrong, good
from evil. They will approve that which God approves, and will strive
earnestly against the introduction of wrong principles into His cause.
The wisdom that Solomon desired above riches, honor, or long life,
God gave him. His petition for a quick mind, a large heart, and a tender
spirit was granted. “God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding
[32]
exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that is on
the seashore. And Solomon’s wisdom excelled the wisdom of all the
children of the east country, and all the wisdom of Egypt. For he was
wiser than all men; ... and his fame was in all nations round about.”
1
Kings 4:29-31
.
“And all Israel ... feared the king: for they saw that the wisdom
of God was in him, to do judgment.”
1 Kings 3:28
. The hearts of the
people were turned toward Solomon, as they had been toward David,
and they obeyed him in all things. “Solomon ... was strengthened in
his kingdom, and the Lord his God was with him, and magnified him
exceedingly.”
2 Chronicles 1:1
.
For many years Solomon’s life was marked with devotion to God,
with uprightness and firm principle, and with strict obedience to God’s
commands. He directed in every important enterprise and managed
wisely the business matters connected with the kingdom. His wealth
and wisdom, the magnificent buildings and public works that he con-
structed during the early years of his reign, the energy, piety, justice,