The gap between knowing what is right and actually living it

The gap between knowing what is right and actually living it

According to Dr. Dillip Jeste, author of the book, Wiser, "Wisdom is so necessary for the society, much more than intelligence, because wisdom is associated with mental well-being and happiness. Well-being and happiness are what the society needs, and that can come with wisdom."

King Solomon's story is no secret. He life stands as one of the most fascinating and tragic figures in biblical history. He was a man who was given extraordinary wisdom, yet ultimately failed to live by it.

Scholars say Solomon was probably between 14 and 18 years old when he began his reign. At the time he began to reign, he was humble and realized his need for God. When God appeared to him in a dream and offered to grant him anything he desired, Solomon did not ask for wealth, power, or long life. Instead, as you know, he asked for understanding and wisdom. He asked for a discerning heart to govern the people well. God was so pleased with his prayer that He granted him the greatest wisdom ever given to man, along with riches and honor.

His wisdom quickly became evident when he solved a heated dispute in the case of two women claiming to be the mother of the same child. He suggested cutting the baby in half and giving half to each mother. To save the child's life, the real mother quickly stepped up to offer the baby to the other woman. This quickly caused his reputation to spread far beyond Israel, drawing the attention of leaders from distant lands who came to hear him speak.

Solomon's story is not just one of wisdom, but more importantly, it is a warning about the gap between knowing what is right and actually living it. They don't always match up.

Despite his divine gift, Solomon gradually drifted from the very principles he understood so well. He formed political alliances through marriages, taking many foreign wives, which he knew was spiritually dangerous. These relationships slowly influenced him, leading him to tolerate and even participate in the worship of other gods.

Solomon spent much of his life writing about wisdom, obedience, and the fear of God. His writings emphasize the importance of guarding one's heart, avoiding temptation, and remaining faithful. And yet, his own life became an example of neglecting the very truths he wrote about.

His downfall wasn't due to a lack of knowledge, but it was a failure of application. I believe, Solomon's life highlights a profound reality: wisdom is not intellectual. It is not proven by what we know, but by what we do. A person can understand truth deeply and still choose a different path.

I am thankful his story is in the Bible because it is as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago. It reminds us that wisdom must be practiced daily, guarded intentionally, and lived consistently.

Editor's note: Dr. Dillip Jeste's quote is from, This Is Your Brain With Dr. Phil Stieg: Why Wisdom is Necessary. Podcast.