David, in his old age, spoke of two subjects to his son: building the temple (11) and discretion and understanding in leading Israel (12).
Parents who love the Lord want their children to accept and live in a relationship with the Lord. David wanted this for his children, especially Solomon.
Parents who love their children also want their children to succeed in life; to live to the full. David wanted this for his children, especially Solomon. The man and woman who have faith in Jesus realize that the two are connected.
Solomon’s wisdom would become famous (the subject of a future DB). A wise person has the quality to apply experience, knowledge, and good judgment to life. Discretion is the freedom to decide what should be done in a particular situation. Understanding is having insight or good judgment.
Wisdom, discretion, and understanding are all gifts of God. Reading and applying the words of the Lord will give all three and success (13). Yet if a person doesn’t practically apply wisdom, live by discretion, and follow through on understanding, they are like a ship with sails that are unfurled in a windy way. They get nowhere in life.
