Respecting the King
And all Israel heard of the judgment which the king had judged;
and they feared the king: for they saw that the wisdom
of God was in him, to do judgment.
1 Kings 3:28
Read Matthew 12:38-42
The nation heard the judgment that the king had passed. Solomon was able
to bring this very difficult case to a good conclusion. As a result, his wisdom
made such a deep impression upon his people that they discussed this episode
among themselves. The people realized their king had been given the
wisdom of God and, as a consequence, they feared his countenance. Solomon’s
wisdom was a much greater asset than his weapons. In Ecclesiastes
9:18, we read: Wisdom is better than weapons of war: but one sinner destroyeth
much good.
Solomon’s subjects were afraid to commit evil. Their wise king would surely
get to the bottom of their evil ways if their case were to be brought before
him. But do we have respect for the King of kings? He sees everything! He
cannot be tricked or fooled! His true subjects fear Him with a reverential
fear. By grace they strive against sin and long to do that which is upright in
His sight. What Solomon was unable to do for his subjects, Christ has done
for His subjects. He shed His blood and laid down His life for sin. Do you
serve that King who gave His life as a ransom price? Then you will experience
a joy that surpasses all the pleasures of this world. Whoever serves
this King will also be noticed in society. Do your neighbours and colleagues
see that you possess the true wisdom that is from above? Is it your desire to
walk in all honesty, seeking to avoid sinning against God? Are you a Christian
in name only or a true Christian?
Thought: Only those that fear the Lord truly know Him!
Psalter 383:1,2,5 (based on Psalm 139)
All that I am I owe to Thee, Thy wisdom, Lord, hath fashioned me;
I give my Maker thankful praise, Whose wondrous works my soul amaze.
Ere into being I was brought, Thy eye did see, and in Thy thought,
My life in all its perfect plan Was ordered ere my days began.
Search me, O God, my heart discern, Try me, my inmost thought to learn;
And lead me, if in sin I stray, To choose the everlasting way.
