GAIN WISDOM AND ACCEPT DISCIPLINE

JEHOVAH GOD is the Grand Instructor of his people.  He educates them not only about himself but also about life.   (Isaiah 30:20; 54:13; Psalm 27:11)  To the nation of Israel, for example, Jehovah gave prophets , Levites - especially the priests-and other wise men to serve as teachers.  (2 Chronicles 35:3; Jeremiah 18:18)  The prophets taught the people about God's purposes and attributes and outlined the right course to take.  The priests and Levites had the responsibility of teaching Jehovah's Law.  And the wise men, or elders,provided sound counsel on the matter of day-to-day living. 

Solomon, son of David, was outstanding among the wise men of Israel.  ( 1 Kings 4:30, 31)  Upon seeing his glory and riches, one of the most  distinguished visitors, the queen of Sheba, confessed:  "I had not been told the half.  You have surpassed in wisdom and prosperity the things heard to which I listened."  (1 Kings 10:7)  What was the secret of Solomon's wisdom?  When he became king of Israel in 1037 B.C.E., Solomon prayed for "wisdom and knowledge."  Being pleased with his request, Jehovah gave him knowledge, wisdom and an understanding heart.   ( 2 Chronicles 1:10-12; 1 Kings 3:12)  No wonder Solomon came to "speak three thousand proverbs"  ( 1 Kings 4:32)  Some of these, along with "the words of Agur" and those of Lemuel the king," were recorded in the Bible book of Proverbs.  (Proverbs 30:1; 31:1) The truths expressed in these proverbs reflect God's wisdom and are eternal.  (1 Kings 10:23, 24) To anyone desiring a happy and successful life, they are as indispensable today as they were when first uttered.

Next time: Success and Moral Cleanness - How?

The Watchtower, 1999