“Young” King Solomon started out great because he was humble and asked God for help. Yet when he got older and became proud and “great,” he stopped following God and worshipped false gods. If he had been alive today, he might have been obsessed with collecting followers on social media, getting invited to all the best parties, and having season box seats to every major sporting event. True wisdom is not proud; it walks hand in hand with humility.
Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the LORD,
and humility comes before honor.
The queen brought Solomon camels loaded with spices, gold, and precious stones because that was what held great value at that time.
Do a “hero evaluation.” Think about some of the present-day famous people that you like to watch, listen to, or follow. Maybe you like famous athletes, movie stars, online influencers, or even fictional characters. On a piece of paper, draw a line down the middle to create two columns. On one side write “Have,” and on the other side, write “Lack.” Write down what positive qualities or valuable things the person has, and then write down what good things they lack. When you’re finished with your list, think about these questions: Why do I like this person? What about them is something I want to imitate? What about them reminds me of godly qualities I want to have?
Dear Lord, as I get older, help me to become wiser, not “greater.” Amen.