When you have a decision to make, what do you want most in the world? My husband would say, wisdom to make the right decision. Today, I’d love to share with you some things the Bible says about wisdom, and lead you in your own prayer for wisdom.
The Pastor’s Question
We sat across the table from one of our pastors in a Mexican restaurant. We’d had a good conversation about some decisions we had to make, and when we were done eating, our pastor sat back and said, “So, what can I pray for you?”
Immediately, my husband responded, “Wisdom.”
Our pastor looked pleased and said, “Solomon asked for wisdom, and the Lord said, I will give you that and more.”
The Bible has a lot to say about wisdom. Today we’ll look at King Solomon’s prayer for wisdom, explore a few verses on wisdom, and learn to pray our own prayer for wisdom.
Solomon’s Prayer for Wisdom
You can read about Solomon’s prayer for wisdom in 1 Kings 3.
In 1 kings 3:5 the Lord comes to Solomon and says, “Ask for whatever you want me to give to you.”
Solomon could have asked for anything, money, riches or fame.
In 1 Kings 3:6-9 we see what he did ask for.
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?”
1 kings 3:9 NIV
In verse 10-14 you can find God’s answer to Solomon.
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.
1 Kings 3:12 NIV
What Does the Bible Say About Wisdom?
Probably the most well known verse and promise about wisdom in the Bible is in the book of James.
James 1:5 is listed below, along with two verses from Proverbs. The book of Proverbs is literally Filled with verses on Wisdom. Read one Proverb a day for the next month, and you will see how important wisdom is.
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
James 1:5 NIV
For the Lord gives wisdom, from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
Proverbs 2:6 NIV
For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire and compare with her.
Proverbs 8:11 NIV
A Prayer for Wisdom
If you lack wisdom, you too can pray to God for wisdom:
Following is a prayer you can pray for wisdom.
Father God, I ask for your wisdom and direction in my situation. I need your help Lord. Show me your way, so that I may walk out your plans and purposes for me. Thank you Father God, that when I ask you for wisdom, you give it liberally without finding fault. When your wisdom comes, I pray that I would know without a doubt that it’s from You. In Jesus’ mighty name, amen.
Conclusion
The Lord was pleased with Solomon for asking for wisdom (See 1 Kings 3) and He gives wisdom liberally without finding fault(See James 1:5). You too can ask the Lord for wisdom by praying the prayer above or saying your own prayer.
God hears you, He loves you, He is a good Father and He will answer your prayer for wisdom.
Find more prayers in my devotional, Lord, Heal My Heart.
In His Love,
Carolyn
I love this and it is such a great reminder for us to pray for wisdom!
Thank you!
Yes! Wisdom, who was with God from the beginning is what we all need. Thank you for sharing this!
Thanks so much, God Bless!
Such a great reminder to seek wisdom. I love that your husband was a godly example in this, too.
Thank you!