WHEN WISDOM ATTRACTS THE NATIONS
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: 1 Kings 10:1-29
Supporting Texts: Proverbs 4:7-9; Matthew 5:14-16; Daniel 1:17-20; James 3:17; Isaiah 60:1-3
INTRODUCTION:
1 Kings 10 presents a glorious moment in the reign of Solomon—the visit of the Queen of Sheba, a powerful foreign monarch, who travelled a great distance to test and witness the wisdom and splendour of Solomon. What she encountered far exceeded her expectations, and she acknowledged that what she had heard did not fully describe the greatness of Solomon’s wisdom and kingdom.
This chapter teaches that true wisdom is attractive and magnetic. When God grants wisdom, it draws people, resources, honour, and influence from distant places. Solomon’s excellence, order, and insight were so evident that even a pagan queen glorified the God of Israel.
However, this chapter also serves as a turning point—a quiet signal that success, if not guarded, can become a trap. Prosperity, if unchecked by humility, can shift the heart away from God.
1. GODLY WISDOM WILL ALWAYS DRAW ATTENTION AND HONOUR
The Queen of Sheba came because she had heard of Solomon's fame connected to the name of the Lord.
a) “When the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon concerning the name of the Lord…” (1 Kings 10:1)
God’s blessings on your life should point others to Him.
b) People will come when there is something divine at work in your life
She came with questions, gifts, and expectations.
c) Divine wisdom is not silent—it radiates in decisions, actions, and leadership
It cannot be hidden.
d) God desires that our wisdom becomes a testimony to unbelievers
We shine to draw nations into His light.
Biblical Example: Daniel’s wisdom elevated him above all wise men of Babylon (Daniel 1:20).
2. WISDOM IS PROVEN BY ANSWERS AND ORDER, NOT JUST WORDS
Solomon answered all her hard questions, and she saw his kingdom's order.
a) “There was nothing so difficult for the king that he could not explain it to her.” (1 Kings 10:3)
God’s wisdom brings clarity where there is confusion.
b) Excellence, protocol, and structure reflect divine order
She noticed the food, seating, uniforms, and worship.
c) A wise life is not chaotic—it is governed by discernment and vision
People are blessed by what they experience in your presence.
d) Wisdom creates an atmosphere that communicates God’s character
Solomon's court reflected heaven’s majesty.
Biblical Example: Joseph’s wisdom in administration saved nations during famine (Genesis 41:39-41).
3. EXCELLENCE IN WISDOM WILL GLORIFY GOD, NOT JUST THE INDIVIDUAL
The Queen gave glory to the God of Israel after seeing all she had heard.
a) “Blessed be the Lord your God, who delighted in you…” (1 Kings 10:9)
True wisdom always reflects God’s goodness.
b) Your influence is divine when it causes others to worship God
She acknowledged Solomon’s God as the source.
c) God lifts people not for self-glory but to draw nations unto Himself
Influence must point back to the throne.
d) We must steward success in a way that keeps the spotlight on God
Solomon’s rise was credited to divine favour.
Biblical Example: Nebuchadnezzar glorified the Most High after Daniel interpreted his dream (Daniel 2:46-47).
4. GODLY WISDOM ATTRACTS RESOURCES AND GENEROSITY
She brought gold, spices, and precious stones as tribute to Solomon.
a) “She gave the king one hundred and twenty talents of gold…” (1 Kings 10:10)
Wisdom not only draws people, it brings wealth and honour.
b) When God gives you wisdom, you won’t need to chase blessings—they come to you
The queen gave out of respect and honour.
c) The gifts were a sign of covenantal connection and recognition of God’s hand
She saw the value and responded generously.
d) Influence governed by wisdom opens doors to global partnerships
Solomon’s kingdom became a hub of wealth and learning.
Biblical Example: The Magi brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh to Jesus, recognising His divine kingship (Matthew 2:11).
5. UNGUARDED PROSPERITY CAN BECOME A SPIRITUAL DISTRACTION
Though blessed, Solomon’s heart eventually drifted from the Lord.
a) “Solomon accumulated chariots and horses… silver was not considered valuable.” (1 Kings 10:26-27)
Excess without caution can lead to spiritual erosion.
b) The blessings of God must be handled with reverence and boundaries
Solomon’s unchecked luxury became his downfall in later chapters.
c) Success that is not anchored in humility leads to pride
God gives prosperity for purpose, not for self-indulgence.
d) We must guard our hearts even when our hands are full
Solomon’s love for wealth led to foreign alliances that later compromised his loyalty to God.
Biblical Example: Jesus warned, “What shall it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul?” (Mark 8:36).
CONCLUSION:
1 Kings 10 shows that when God’s wisdom is upon a life, nations will notice, honour will follow, and God will be glorified. Wisdom attracts. Wisdom organises. Wisdom multiplies influence. But wisdom must be preserved through humility and spiritual sensitivity.
As we grow in wisdom and favour, may we always remember that God is the source, the sustainer, and the goal. Let us shine not for show, but for His glory—to draw people from far and near to the knowledge of His greatness.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, increase Your wisdom in my life and make me a light to the nations.
2. Let my life, words, and works reflect divine order and excellence.
3. May everything I build for You attract those who seek truth.
4. Keep my heart humble, even when honour and wealth come.
5. Let every influence and gift You give me be used for Your glory alone.
