Solomon asks for Wisdom

The Wisdom Quest

This week, we are diving into the incredible life of King Solomon and the wonderful gift he received from God. As parents, you have the special privilege of helping your children discover that wisdom is much more than just being "smart." Wisdom is a gift from God that helps us know right from wrong and make good decisions. Use this guide to help your family seek an understanding heart as we follow Solomon’s journey!

The Three Types of Psalms

Before we begin Solomon’s story, let’s look back at our lesson on the Book of Psalms. We learned that God inspired King David and others to write songs and prayers for every season of life. Here is a quick reminder of the three types we studied:

  • Psalm of Praise: These psalms praise God simply because He is so great!
  • Psalm of Thanksgiving: These are used to give thanks to God for all the wonderful things He has done for us.
  • Psalm of Lament: These are prayers used when we are talking to God while we are sad and asking Him why things are happening.

An Understanding Heart

When King David grew very old, his son Solomon was crowned as the next king of Israel. Solomon loved the Lord, but he felt very small in his new role. He knew he wasn’t as old or as experienced as his father, David.

One night, God appeared to Solomon in a dream and made an incredible offer: “Whatever you ask for, I will give to you.”

Solomon didn't ask for gold or fame. Instead, he showed great humility. He asked for an "understanding heart"—or an "understanding mind"—so that he could judge the people and "discern between good and evil" (1 Kings 3:9–10).

God was so pleased that Solomon asked for wisdom instead of riches or revenge! He promised to make Solomon wiser than anyone who had ever lived. God also gave him the things he didn’t ask for: great riches and honor. He even promised Solomon a long life, provided that Solomon was careful to obey all of God’s commands.

[FACT BOX: THE WISEST MAN EVER] Solomon was the wisest man who ever lived. Because God does everything perfectly and without mistakes, He is the only source of true wisdom. He chose to share that wisdom with Solomon in a unique and powerful way!

Wisdom in Action

To show the people his God-given wisdom, Solomon acted as a judge in a very difficult case. Two women lived in the same house, and both had newborn babies. Sadly, one baby died in the night, and the mother of that child switched the babies while the other mother was sleeping.

Both women came before Solomon, each claiming the living baby was hers. To find the truth, Solomon called for a sword and gave a shocking command: “Divide this living child in two with the sword and give half to each mother.”

Solomon wasn't actually going to hurt the baby; he was testing their hearts. The true mother, filled with mercy and love, begged the king to give the baby to the other woman just to save his life. The other woman said, “Go ahead, divide him!” Solomon instantly knew who the real mother was because of her love.

As recorded in 1 Kings 3:27, the king declared: "Give the first woman the living child, and by no means kill him. She is his mother."

Solomon’s Super-Knowledge

Solomon’s wisdom didn't stop in the courtroom! God helped him understand the entire world, making him a world-renowned expert in many fields:

  • A Prolific Songwriter: Solomon wrote over 1,000 songs and many beautiful poems.
  • A Master of Nature: He was like a scientist, studying and understanding everything God created—from giant trees and plants to animals, fish, lizards, and birds!

"Wisdom Weekly" At-Home Activities

Try these three activities this week to bring Solomon’s story to life:

  • Activity 1: The Nature Scientist Solomon was fascinated by the world God made. Take a walk outside and act like "Nature Curators." Look closely at plants, birds, or even lizards. Talk about how God gave Solomon the wisdom to understand how every living thing works!
  • Activity 2: The Songwriter’s Challenge Since Solomon wrote over 1,000 songs, challenge your child to be a songwriter today. Help them write a short four-line poem or song of praise to God for something He created.
  • Activity 3: The Wisdom Choice Game Role-play different scenarios, like finding a dollar on the floor or deciding whether to share a favorite toy. Remind your child that being wise means knowing what is right and wrong and choosing to do the right thing. Ask them to "discern" the wise choice in each scenario.

Dinner Table Talk: Discussion Starters

  1. If God told you he would give you anything you asked for, what would you pick?
  2. What does it mean to be wise? (Hint: It’s knowing right from wrong and choosing the right thing!)
  3. How did Solomon’s sword test show who the real mother was?
  4. Why is God the only one who can give us true wisdom?

Closing Encouragement

It is so heartening to remember that God is pleased when we seek wisdom! He wants to give us understanding hearts to help us navigate our lives. This week, let’s pray together as a family, asking God to give us the wisdom to know what is right and the courage to always choose it.