What Can we Learn From The Richest Man Who Ever Lived? - Part 1

What can we learn from the richest man who ever lived or walked the earth, King Solomon? King Solomon shows us how wisdom was the source of his unmatched wealth and influence. Solomon’s greatness did not stem from inheritance or politics but from a single, humble request to God.

“Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people,” he asked (2 Chronicles 1:10, NIV).

God granted his request and added wealth, honor, and long life as a result. Thus we should seek wisdom above material gain, and that wisdom is the master key to lasting success in every area of life.

As Proverbs 4:7 says, “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.”

Wisdom brings with it the gift of favor. Solomon had the ability to attract favor—especially from leaders and nations—was rooted in his exceptional insight and problem-solving skills.

Proverbs 3:4 reinforces this truth: “Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.”

Favor is not random; it is the natural result of a life aligned with God’s wisdom. We are promoted not for what we know, but for the problems we solve. Therefore, becoming a person of discernment and value attracts opportunity and unlocks relationships that can change our trajectory.

At the core of Solomon’s life was a clear understanding of divine assignment. Purpose is not invented—it is discovered. Solomon was called to govern and build God’s temple, and his wealth flowed from that assignment.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 declares, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”

When we align our life with God's calling, provision follows purpose. Our financial blessing, influence, and peace are tied not to our ambition, but to our obedience in fulfilling what God uniquely designed us to do.

This obedience requires focus. Solomon’s early success was marked by single-minded attention to his assignment.

Proverbs 4:25–27 gives wise counsel: “Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet… do not turn to the right or the left.”

The distractions we entertain determine the destiny we forfeit. Focus means choosing where to invest our energy and learning to say “no” to anything that dilutes our purpose. It is not simply about time management—it’s about life stewardship.

However, even Solomon’s wisdom was not immune to erosion. His downfall came through distraction—particularly in the form of unhealthy relationships and misplaced loyalty. Emotional entanglements can become spiritual traps.

1 Kings 11:4 states, “As Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods.”

The lesson is sobering: wisdom must be guarded. What begins with clarity can end in compromise if we stop protecting the purity of our focus and calling. Vigilance is essential to preserve the gift of wisdom.

Finally, “Law of Recognition”—that what we fail to recognize, we will eventually lose. Solomon’s greatness included his ability to see value where others overlooked it.

Proverbs 20:12 affirms this: “Ears that hear and eyes that see—the Lord has made them both.”

The ability to discern opportunities, mentors, divine moments, and even correction is a mark of true wisdom. Recognition leads to stewardship, and stewardship leads to multiplication. In essence, the journey to becoming truly rich—spiritually, relationally, and materially—begins with the decision to see with God’s eyes and act with His wisdom.

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