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Royalty and Ruin
person carrying heavy responsibilities who desires wisdom more
than wealth, power, or fame will not be disappointed.
How to Succeed as a Leader
As long as they remain consecrated, those to whom God has
given discernment and ability will not be eager for high positions
nor seek to rule or control. Instead of striving for supremacy, true
leaders will pray for an understanding heart, to discern between
good and evil. Leaders have no easy path. But they are to see in
every difficulty a call to prayer. Strengthened and enlightened by
the Master, they will stand firm against unholy influences and will
discern right from wrong.
The wisdom that Solomon wanted more than riches, honor, or
long life, God gave him. “God gave Solomon wisdom and exceed-
ingly great understanding, and largeness of heart like the sand on
the seashore. ... For he was wiser than all men ... and his fame was
in all the surrounding nations.”
1 Kings 4:29-31
.
“And all Israel ... stood in awe of the king, because they perceived
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that the wisdom of God was in him, to execute justice.”
1 Kings 3:28
,
NRSV. The hearts of the people turned toward Solomon. “Solomon
... was strengthened in his kingdom, and the Lord his God was with
him and exalted him exceedingly.”
2 Chronicles 1:1
.
Solomon’s Brilliant Success
For many years Solomon maintained a clear devotion to God
and strict obedience to His commands. He managed the kingdom’s
business matters wisely. The magnificent buildings and public works
that he constructed during the early years of his reign, the piety,
justice, and spirit of generous grace that he revealed in word and
deed, won the loyalty of his subjects and the admiration of the
rulers of many lands. For a time Israel was like a light to the world,
displaying to others the greatness of Jehovah.
As the years went by and Solomon’s fame increased, he did his
best to honor God by adding to his mental and spiritual strength and
by continuing to share with others the blessings he received. He