The Wisdom of the Bench: Lessons from a Faithful Judge
How one man’s prayerful pursuit of wisdom echoes Solomon’s request and God’s promise
For nine years, I had the privilege of working alongside a judge whose character and faith left a deep impression on me. He was more than just a legal mind—he was a man of prayer, conviction, and humility. I could write ten articles on his life and still not capture the depth of his integrity. Recently, I stumbled upon a YouTube video where he was receiving an award, and as he spoke, I was taken back to those years in his courtroom.
In his acceptance speech, he shared how, when he first took the bench, he felt like Solomon in 1 Kings 3—a young man tasked with making rulings that would shape lives. Solomon famously prayed:
“Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong.” (1 Kings 3:9, NLT)
The judge said that this was his prayer too. He didn’t ask for success, reputation, or ease—he asked for wisdom. And just like Solomon, his request reflected a deeper wisdom in itself: knowing that true justice and discernment can only come from God.
Solomon’s request pleased the Lord. God responded:
“I will give you what you asked for! I will give you a wise and understanding heart such as no one else has had or ever will have!” (1 Kings 3:12, NLT)
The story reminds us that when our hearts are fixed on God, there is no limit to what He is willing to give us. Wisdom, in this sense, isn’t about having all the answers—it’s the God-given ability to discern right from wrong and then act on it. This is exactly what the judge sought every day. His judgments weren’t just about applying the law—they were about honoring God and serving the people.
This heart posture is reflected beautifully in Psalm 37:
“Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires.” (Psalm 37:3–4, NLT)
And again in Jesus’ words in the Gospel of Matthew:
“If God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers... he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith? …Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.” (Matthew 6:30–33, NLT)
This judge lived that truth. His trust was in the Lord. He delighted in God's Word. And through his example, I saw what it looks like when someone truly seeks first the Kingdom of God.
Application: Living with Solomon’s Wisdom Today
Pray Boldly for Wisdom: Don’t be afraid to ask God for what you need. Like Solomon and this judge, start each day with a prayer that God would give you an understanding heart.
Delight in the Lord: Psalm 37 doesn’t say God gives us everything we want—but rather, when we delight in Him, He shapes our desires and fulfills them. Make time daily to enjoy God’s presence through Scripture and prayer.
Prioritize the Kingdom: In every decision—at home, work, or church—ask first, “How can I honor God here?” Matthew 6:33 reminds us that when God is first, everything else falls into place.
Act on What You Know Is Right: Wisdom is more than knowing right from wrong—it’s the courage to live it out. Don’t just pray for wisdom; walk in it.
The bench this judge sat on was more than a seat of law—it was a platform for faith. And in every decision, I believe he heard God whisper, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” May we all seek to live in such a way.