Perceptive Heart
"Give your servant a perceptive heart."
I King 3:9
The Scripture relates that when King Solomon ascended the throne, YHVH appeared to him in a dream.
"Ask of Me what I shall give you."
King Solomon responded,
"Give Your servant a perceptive heart,
that I may understand the difference between good and evil, so that I may rule justly."
YHVH was pleased with his request.
"Because you did not ask for
wealth or dominion, but rather for wisdom, therefore, I have given you a wise and understanding heart. You will be wiser than
all who preceded you and all who follow you. And I shall also give you the wealth and glory for which you did not ask." (I Kings 3:5-12).
King Solomon's desire for wisdom indicates that he was wise even prior to receiving the unique wisdom YHVH gave him. He
was wise in requesting wisdom rather than wealth, power and glory. Of what use are the latter if one is not wise? Power and
wealth in the hands of a fool can be very destructive.
What is our primary interest? Upon arising in the morning do we reach for a book of wise teachings, or do we quickly consult
the business section of the newspaper for the latest stock quotes?
We have no assurance that by searching for wisdom we will acquire wealth as well. However, we will be able to put whatever
we do have to good use.
