Slices
Prepare
As you come to dwell in the presence of the Lord today, give thanks that you have access to a Bible and education that has enabled you to read the Scriptures.
Bible passage
Solomon’s wisdom
29 God gave Solomon wisdom and very great insight, and a breadth of understanding as measureless as the sand on the seashore. 30 Solomon’s wisdom was greater than the wisdom of all the people of the East, and greater than all the wisdom of Egypt. 31 He was wiser than anyone else, including Ethan the Ezrahite – wiser than Heman, Kalkol and Darda, the sons of Mahol. And his fame spread to all the surrounding nations. 32 He spoke three thousand proverbs and his songs numbered a thousand and five. 33 He spoke about plant life, from the cedar of Lebanon to the hyssop that grows out of walls. He also spoke about animals and birds, reptiles and fish. 34 From all nations people came to listen to Solomon’s wisdom, sent by all the kings of the world, who had heard of his wisdom.[a]
Explore
God grants great intelligence to many people, yet true wisdom and insight seem to be much rarer gifts. Solomon’s wisdom isn’t just theoretical; it’s practical and includes knowledge of various fields, such as plants, animals and the natural world (vs 29,33). Solomon’s wisdom attracts people from different nations (v 34), which means that his influence extends beyond his own kingdom.
Just as Solomon is granted wisdom to lead Israel well, we can be confident that God offers wisdom generously to those who ask for it (James 1:5). We may not be leading an entire kingdom, but this wisdom can help in everyday life, decision-making and in understanding the world around us.
Reading this passage, we need to remember that Solomon’s wisdom is a gift from God that Solomon requests so that he can serve his people well and fulfil God’s purpose for his life. We could regard Solomon with bitterness or jealousy because we want what he has. It is good to marvel at God’s gifts in other people. It is also good to remember that God wants to lavish us with good gifts and that he has a unique plan for each of us.
Respond
Ask God to grant you the gift of wisdom and the opportunity to use that gift to bless other people.
Bible in a year
Read the Bible in a year: Numbers 34,35; Acts 25
Pray for Scripture Union
Pray for wisdom for Finance and Services Director Sharon Esnard. Sharon leads the team who will be implementing the new financial reporting framework affecting all charities (effective from 1 April for SU). Join her, too, in giving thanks for God’s continued provision.
Equipping the church to reach the next generation
Across England and Wales, increasing numbers of children and young people are asking big questions about life, faith and meaning. Many are more open than we might assume – curious, thoughtful, and ready for conversations about Jesus, even when church isn’t part of their everyday world. For churches who have a heart for the next generation, this presents a real and hopeful opportunity.
Many leaders carry a deep desire to help the next generation encounter Jesus, but with full diaries and many responsibilities, knowing how to respond – or where to begin – can feel uncertain. That’s why we’ve created the It’s Time to Act guide.
It’s a simple, encouraging resource designed to help churches take thoughtful, realistic steps towards revealing Jesus to the next generation. Rather than offering big programmes or quick fixes, the guide focuses on what’s possible now – small, achievable actions that can grow over time. Inside, you’ll find practical ideas shaped by real church life that work alongside busy schedules and varied contexts. So, whether your church is just beginning to explore this opportunity, or already taking steps, the guide aims to meet you where you are and help you discern what comes next.
Our hope is that It’s Time to Act feels less like another initiative, and more like an invitation – to notice where God is already at work, and to take a next step, one step at a time.
If you’d like to explore the guide and see whether it could support your church, you can order a copy here.
