If God promised to give you whatever you asked for, what would you say? Wealth? A long life and good health? Power? God made this promise to Solomon shortly after he became king—”Ask for whatever you want me to give you,” God said. Solomon was the son of David, the great king, the same David who defeated the giant Goliath with a rock. Following in his father’s footsteps must’ve felt like an impossible task. The size and scope of his duties made him feel like “a little child.” So when God offered to give him what he wanted, Solomon asked for wisdom, the ability to administer justice and determine right from wrong.
Typically, we gain wisdom through experience. But with this simple request, Solomon gained a level of knowledge and understanding it normally takes a lifetime to collect. Fortunately, we get to benefit from his inspirational words of wisdom. He wrote several books of the Bible, including Proverbs. Here is some of King Solomon’s wisdom for dads.
Listen and discern for the right guidance.
In Proverbs 1:5, Solomon says, “Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.”
Before you weigh in on a subject or make a major decision, make sure you have the most information you can gather. We tend to make quick judgments with our kids, often without listening to their points of view. However, the wise are slow to speak and quick to listen. Never stop learning. Seek out the guidance and counsel of others who have gone before you. Be informed before moving or speaking.
The people we surround ourselves with have a tremendous impact on us.Keep good company, and you’ll grow.
In Proverbs 13:20, Solomon says, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
The people we surround ourselves with have a tremendous impact on us. If we spend time with hot tempered and impulsive people, then we will take on those traits. So we need to be careful with the company we keep. Think about the people you spend the most time with. What are their lives and relationships like? Do they tend to make good decisions and have their priorities in good order? If not, initiate with people whose lives and character you admire.
Be faithful today, and you’ll be rewarded later.
“Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.” -Proverbs 17:6
The busyness and demands of today can make us lose perspective of the big picture. We can get tired and want to quit, or at least give less effort. However, remaining faithful, especially in the little things, adds up to a great reward in the future. Imagine being an old man for a moment. What do you want your kids’ and grandkids’ lives to look like? What’s it going to take to get there day in and day out? Be consistent, love continuously, and be present for your kids, and you will reap the rewards later in life.
Be generous, and it’ll return to you.
In Proverbs 11:24–25, Solomon writes, “One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”
It’s logical to think that when we give, we end up with less. It makes sense, after all—when we give money, it leaves our account. When we work for some else’s benefit, we become tired. But Solomon explains that the story doesn’t end there. God gives back to us what we give and increases it. Giving fills us with peace, joy, fulfillment, and contentment. More than anything, it leads to healthy relationships. Yes, there are those who will look to take advantage of our generosity and there will be a time for boundaries. But we should always look to give generously if we want our lives to be better.
Sound off: What are some inspirational words of wisdom someone shared with you about fatherhood?
Huddle up with your kids and ask, “What is wisdom? Why is it important? How do we get it?”