Introduction: Long have I been fascinated by King Solomon. I think it involves his fluctuations. He went from hero to zero many times throughout his life. But one of his best moments came early in his kingship. It was when he prayed for discernment, for wisdom.

Text: “Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?” (1 Kings 3:9).

Solomon did several things:

• He went to the Lord, the fountain of wisdom.
• He petitioned the Lord.
• He petitioned specifically for “an understanding mind” that he might “discern between good and evil.”

Teaching: “What’s down in the well comes up in the bucket,” is a piece of wisdom that has stood me in good stead. Why? Well, it’s because one’s sources are crucial. What wells people drink from determine their level of intellectual and spiritual nourishment. Healthy wells contain pure waters, if you will. Unhealthy wells contain toxic waters. Ergo, test the wells. Know what you’re drinking from.

First, Solomon knew God to be the source of all truth and all wisdom.

Second, Solomon demonstrated the humility to ask God. He didn’t purport to be inherently wise. Humility is tied to wisdom.

Encouragement: We can learn from Solomon, just as Solomon learned from God.