The Wisdom That Establishes Destinies Series

THE WISDOM THAT ESTABLISHES DESTINIES

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Kings 3:1-28

Supporting Texts: Proverbs 4:7; James 1:5; Ecclesiastes 10:10; Isaiah 33:6; Matthew 7:24-25

INTRODUCTION:

Solomon had just ascended the throne under divine direction and strong foundational counsel from his father, David. Yet, one thing stood out: he realised that royal authority without divine wisdom is dangerous. In humility and reverence, Solomon approached God in Gibeon, and in a dream, the Lord appeared to him, offering him a blank cheque: “Ask what I shall give you.”

Rather than ask for wealth, fame, or the death of his enemies, Solomon requested wisdom and an understanding heart to judge the people of God. His choice pleased the Lord, and not only did God grant him wisdom, He added everything else Solomon did not ask for. The first test of this divine gift came when two harlots stood before him, each claiming to be the mother of a surviving child. Solomon's discernment became evident to the whole nation.

This chapter teaches that destinies are secured, lives are governed, and kingdoms are preserved through divine wisdom. God is still looking for men and women who will treasure wisdom above personal ambition. Leadership, influence, and success demand more than intellect—they require the insight that only comes from God.

1. DIVINE WISDOM BEGINS WITH A HEART THAT SEEKS GOD

Solomon’s request came from a posture of humility and reverence.

a) “Now, O Lord my God, You have made Your servant king… but I am a little child.” (1 Kings 3:7)

Wisdom starts with acknowledging our insufficiency.

b) Greatness without God becomes a burden; leadership without wisdom leads to ruin

Solomon desired to rule well, not just sit on the throne.

c) A hungry heart attracts divine deposits

God meets those who seek Him sincerely.

d) Asking for wisdom shows spiritual maturity and alignment with God's priorities

Wisdom governs resources, relationships, and responsibilities.

Biblical Example: Daniel continually sought God for wisdom in Babylon and rose above all others (Daniel 1:17-20).

2. GOD IS PLEASED WHEN WE VALUE PURPOSE ABOVE PERSONAL GAIN

Solomon’s request aligned with God’s heart.

a) “It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this thing.” (1 Kings 3:10)

Heaven responds with joy when we ask according to divine will.

b) Many ask for things that satisfy self, but Solomon asked for what would benefit the kingdom

Kingdom-minded prayers attract heaven’s endorsement.

c) God delights in those who place His people, plans, and purposes above personal ambition

Solomon’s desire revealed his selflessness.

d) When your desire is to fulfil God’s purpose, He adds all other things

God gave him what he didn’t ask for—riches, honour, and peace.

Biblical Example: Jesus said, “Seek first the kingdom… and all these things shall be added” (Matthew 6:33).

3. TRUE WISDOM IS A GIFT THAT DISTINGUISHES AND PROTECTS DESTINY

God granted Solomon “a wise and understanding heart.”

a) “Behold, I have done according to your words.” (1 Kings 3:12)

Wisdom is not earned by age—it is given by God to those who ask in faith.

b) Divine wisdom separates you from the crowd and elevates your influence

Solomon’s fame spread because of wisdom, not warfare.

c) Wisdom protects destiny from errors, distractions, and manipulations

It helps in making sound decisions in critical moments.

d) Wisdom is not just intellectual—it includes discernment, clarity, and depth

It enables leaders to hear beyond words and see beyond appearances.

Biblical Example: Joseph’s wisdom preserved Egypt and Israel in the time of famine (Genesis 41:39-41).

4. WISDOM IS TESTED IN EVERYDAY DECISIONS AND CRISES

The case of the two women tested Solomon’s discernment.

a) “Bring me a sword… divide the living child in two.” (1 Kings 3:24-25)

Solomon used divine insight to reveal the truth without needing evidence.

b) Wisdom is not just for sermons—it is for justice, leadership, and problem-solving

Solomon solved a national dilemma with calm, authority, and clarity.

c) God-given wisdom exposes lies and confirms truth without argument

The true mother was revealed through emotional response, not words.

d) The wisdom of God brings peace to chaos and solutions to human conflict

It turns crisis into clarity and confusion into resolution.

Biblical Example: Paul used godly wisdom to settle doctrinal issues in the early church (Acts 15:6-21).

5. GODLY WISDOM BRINGS RECOGNITION, REVERENCE, AND ESTABLISHMENT

The people marvelled at Solomon and feared the Lord.

a) “They feared the king, for they saw that the wisdom of God was in him.” (1 Kings 3:28)

Godly wisdom commands respect and credibility.

b) People follow leaders who carry divine insight and integrity

Solomon’s first ruling sealed his position as king in their hearts.

c) Wisdom exalts, stabilises, and establishes both people and kingdoms

It brings not just solutions, but longevity.

d) The fear of God and wisdom go hand in hand—where wisdom flows, God is honoured