Sermon Follow-up for Sunday, July 26th, 2006

Dear Saints,

In the account of the Queen of Sheba’s visit to Solomon (1 Kings 10), we are reminded that true wisdom is not human cleverness or accumulated knowledge, but the wisdom that comes from God through His revealed Word. Remember that at the conclusion of her visit, the Queen declared, “Blessed be the LORD your God who delighted in you to set you on the throne of Israel; because the LORD loved Israel forever, therefore He made you king, to do justice and righteousness.” (1 Kings 10:9). Her words acknowledge that Solomon’s wisdom and success were not personal achievements but manifestations of God’s covenant love for His people.

Solomon’s extraordinary wisdom was unique, yet every believer is called to pursue wisdom by fearing the Lord, studying the Scriptures, and living according to God’s truth. Apart from the new birth, fallen man is unable and unwilling to embrace God’s wisdom, but through faith in Jesus Christ we are given new hearts that delight in His Word.

The passage also teaches us that genuine greatness is found in humble submission to God’s revelation. Solomon’s reputation spread throughout the world because he governed according to God’s Law rather than his own understanding. The Queen recognized that Solomon himself was a gift of God’s love to His covenant people. In the same way, God has graciously provided His people with His Word so that they may walk in wisdom, experience peace and joy, and become a blessing to others. Our love for God’s Word is a reflection of our confidence in God’s love for us.

Summary of Practical Lessons and Encouragements.

• True wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord.

• God’s Word is the only infallible source of wisdom.

• Saving faith in Christ enables us to understand and obey God’s truth.

• Greatness in God’s kingdom comes through submission to His revealed will.

• A life shaped by Scripture is marked by peace, joy, stability, and usefulness.

Monday’s Devotional Thought

The fear of the Lord is not merely the beginning of wisdom—it is the foundation upon which every area of life must be built. When we recognize God as our Creator and ourselves as His creatures, we begin to see life as He intends. Every decision, every relationship, and every trial is rightly understood only through the lens of His Word.

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. (Prov. 9:10)

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (Ps. 119:105)

“Wisdom consists almost entirely of two parts: the knowledge of God and of ourselves.” John Calvin