![1 Kings 3:4-9, [10-15], 16-28, Solomon's Wisdom](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/56b39b61ab48de92d991a40a/79938355-29cf-461a-adfc-faec7282ee56/26-11-01.jpg)
Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“All Israel heard of the judgment that the king had rendered; and they stood in awe of the king, because they perceived that the wisdom of God was in him, to execute justice.”
NL Daily Devotion for Sunday, November 1, 2026
by Dr. Kimberly Leetch, Clergy Stuff
Main Idea: Solomon knew his wisdom came from God and gratefully submitted his life to God’s service.
Before the first king, Saul, the people of Israel did not need a king. God was their leader and God’s judges, messengers, and prophets were enough for consistent governing. By the time Solomon became king, the Israelites had long since transitioned from a people in no need of a king to a great mass of people that needed a king. When God asked what God should give Solomon as he rose to power, Solomon already had enough wisdom to request even greater wisdom; specifically concerning the governing of God’s people and the ability to discern right from wrong.
Solomon also had wisdom to recognize that the wisdom, riches, and ability to govern God’s people had been given to him by God. This recognition led Solomon to rule justly and to walk God’s path. His ability to discern God’s role from his own modeled for the people how to maintain the delicate balance between master/servant, parent/child, and mentor/mentee.
Solomon also wisely governed for the good of the people. One can hope that Solomon’s decision to chop a baby in two was a bluff to help discern the baby’s true mother. The people were likely in awe of his wisdom, and probably a little frightened, as is the nature of a power imbalance.
Because our modern world strives for equality for all people, we have lost a little of our experience of living under another. In those places where the hierarchy still exists, such as boss/employee, corporation/ individual, wealthy/poor, we view the hierarchy with bitterness and resentment. It does not feel natural to submit to a higher power with desire, respect, and love.
Solomon’s enduring wisdom is an example of how to be in such a relationship with God. Solomon gratefully submitted his life to care for God’s kingdom. Consider how your parishioners can view their role as subjects of God willingly and with grace. As people learn to submit themselves to God, it becomes easier to lift up those who are below them. When we cease to desire to be the wealthiest and all-powerful, and instead exist as equals with the people we encounter regularly, we move our world closer to God’s kingdom.
