When King Solomon began his reign, the Lord approached him and told him to ask for whatever he wished and promised that He would give it to him. What did Solomon ask for? He asked for wisdom (1 Kings 3).

Good choice.

There are a lot of things you may want to ask for in life – money, a job, good health, a spouse – but wisdom tops them all. If you have wisdom, you are in a position to manage whatever comes your way. But if you lack wisdom, whatever desirable thing you do have will easily be misused and bring you harm.

You don’t have to be a king for this to come into play. Though you do not rule over an earthly kingdom as Solomon did, you do need to govern your own life with all its choices. And you will give an account for your contribution to God’s kingdom. All this requires wisdom.

The good news is that wisdom is freely available for all who need it and want it. In fact, the scriptures make it plain that God wants us to have wisdom.

The book of Proverbs presents wisdom as out in the streets, shouting to the naïve who pass by, urging them to come and receive what she has to offer. She cries out, “Turn to my reproof, behold, I will pour out my spirit on you; I will make my words known to you” (Pr.1:23).

Further, the book of Proverbs urges us to “acquire wisdom, acquire understanding” (Pr.4:5).

And where does this wisdom come from”? It comes from the Lord. “For the Lord gives wisdom. . .” (Pr.2:6).

Wisdom is calling out to you. It’s within your reach. She is there ready to guide you and bless you. She wants you to have what you need to live your life right.

What does it take to receive it?

Two things.

First, you need to renounce folly and follow wisdom as she calls you. The book of Proverbs presents wisdom and folly as two dinner invitations (Pr.9). Both cry out to come and partake. Both make their appeal. But there’s a difference. Only the invitation of wisdom leads to life.

Second, you must believe. James tells us that if anyone lacks wisdom he is to ask of God who gives to all men generously. But to receive that wisdom, you must ask in faith, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. Let not that man expect to receive anything from the Lord (Jas.1:5-7).

There’s not a soul around that doesn’t need wisdom. Though we are undeserving, it’s available through the One in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Col.2:3).

Listen to wisdom’s call, and follow the way she leads you faithfully.