So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?
The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for this. So God said to him, ‘Since you have asked for this and not for long life or wealth for yourself, nor have asked for the death of your enemies but for discernment in administering justice, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be.’
Unlike Adam and Eve, Solomon did not grasp at wisdom apart from God, he asked God for it. And God was pleased. True wisdom is not self-generated but God-given.
Notice that Solomon’s request was not for knowledge to boast in, but for wisdom to serve others. The mark of divine wisdom is not pride but humility, not selfish gain but service. That stands in stark contrast to our age of innovation, where new knowledge is often pursued for profit or power.
AI can accumulate knowledge, but it cannot produce wisdom rooted in love. Solomon’s story reminds us that wisdom flows from the fear of the Lord and is given for the good of others.
If God asked you today what you desire most, would you ask for wisdom to serve Him and others?
Generous God, grant me a discerning heart. Give me wisdom not to elevate myself, but to serve you and your people faithfully.