July 21, 2025

Rhonda Patterson
"God gave Solomon very great wisdom, discernment, and breadth of understanding as vast as the sand on the seashore, so that Solomon's wisdom surpassed the wisdom of all the people of the east, and all the wisdom of Egypt."
1 Kings 4:29-30
"If any of you lacks wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and it will be given to you."
James 1:5

As we continue our current message series, we’ll take a look this week at Psalm 127, but first, let’s look at its author. This psalm is the only one of the Songs of Ascent attributed to King Solomon. He was the son of King David, anointed by him to succeed his reign over Israel. One significant thing that King Solomon was renowned for was his great wisdom. Wouldn’t that be a wonderful thing to be remembered for? The key to Solomon’s amazing gift is found in 1 Kings 3, where the Lord comes to Solomon in a dream at the beginning of his reign and tells him to ask of the Lord what he would desire. Solomon asked for an understanding mind to distinguish good from evil as he governed the great people of Israel. The Lord was so pleased that Solomon chose wisdom to reign over personal riches and a long life. He gave Solomon what he asked for and blessed him with the things he did not ask for, such as wealth and honor.

It’s not difficult to see the lesson here. The Lord is pleased when we ask for his wisdom and discernment. Most of us can recount times when our choices would have led to a far better outcome if only we’d paused long enough to ask for God’s wisdom first. Our pride and self-reliance often lead us to plunge full steam ahead without seeking this precious offer from God. “If any of you lacks wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and it will be given to you.” James 1:5. Wisdom is a promise from God. Is there any area in your life where you need to pause and ask for wisdom? Let’s do that.

Father, we thank you for this wonderful promise from you. According to your encouragement in Proverbs 3:5-6, we choose to trust you with all of our hearts and do not rely on our own insight. We look to you, and you will make our paths straight. We ask for and receive your wisdom today in Jesus’ name, amen.