Discerning Right from Wrong

Scripture: "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

"Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours?" 2 Chronicles 1:10

Observation: What did Solomon ask God for??

We are ALWAYS taught that Solomon asked for wisdom - it's even the 'heading' added to both of these passages. However, in 1 Kings (the more detailed of the telling of this story), he asks for discernment ... and in 2 Chronicles he asks for wisdom AND knowledge.

It is also telling to see his explanation for the requests. Discernment is intended to be used to govern the people and distinguish right from wrong. Wisdom and knowledge is to lead the people. The former, therefore, is for the purpose of proper administration of a government, while the latter is for leadership and authority.

These honestly seem contradictory to me, and I wish it were clearer. Perhaps there is not really a difference here - the great point of the story is that Solomon did not seek earthly gains, but rather requested a skill that would benefit God's chosen people ... and in turn was granted all other greatness and riches by God. However, I find it interesting that, in 1 Kings, the word 'wisdom' in not mentioned by Solomon. It doesn't appear until God says he will give Solomon a "wise and discerning heart."

Application: What is the most wise thing a person can do? It is to discern the will of God and proceed in accordance with that will! So true wisdom is not about earthly understanding, but rather about an understanding of God's will. That was Solomon's request - discernment of right and wrong - to be closer to God and hear his guidance in all matters.

This, then is wisdom: To draw close to God, discern his will, and then to speak and act in accordance and alignment with that will.

Prayer: Lord, there are times when I get this half right - when I believe I know your will. However, I need to lean into that will better, and then act according to that will. I would love the gift of discernment, Lord!!! If it is your will, may you pass that spiritual gift to me, so that I may serve your people - all people - in a manner aligned to your great and perfect will. Amen!