How Can Kids Be More Like Solomon?
Sarah Humphrey
Giving children opportunities to hear about good role models, Biblical characters, and other godly leaders is a great way to help them decipher the difference between what the world is teaching and what God says is actually true.
Solomon is an example of such a person! Not only did Solomon do a lot of things right, but he also made mistakes and suffered for them. He’s an excellent example of a human being who was touched by the hand of God,
If kids today want to chew on a few principles from Solomon’s life, here is a small list of his best characteristics:
1. Solomon Was a Smart Man
When asked by God what he wanted, Solomon could have asked for anything! He could have been selfish by asking for more money, a bigger house, or expensive food to eat, but he didn’t. He chose to ask God for wisdom. He wanted to know God’s heart and mind for the matters he would encounter in his lifetime. Practice today by praying and asking for God’s wisdom; He is sure to give it to you just like He did with Solomon.
2. Solomon Was a Builder
Solomon was wise to use his resources to create beauty, the temple, and other buildings. Solomon showed ingenuity and strength by using his smarts to build instead of consume. Many people want to do things that are easy or want others to do the hard work, but Solomon built from scratch and learned the art of architecture. Practice building with your hands, through art, nature, or with the tools in front of you!
3. Solomon Was Honest
Honesty is a quality we all can admire. No one wants to be lied to or told something that isn’t accurate. Solomon’s writings are full of honest wisdom, telling his son and readers the truth about what God was sharing with him. In a day and age where information is everywhere, Solomon was sure to give honesty and do so bluntly. Being honest is a valuable characteristic for friendships, relationships, and parent-child interactions. Practice being honest by speaking slowly and with intention.
4. Solomon Was a Critical Thinker
If you look through Solomon’s Proverbs, many of his instructions are concrete and to the point. There is no way to miss what he is saying. Others, though, feel a little like a riddle, which engages readers to look further into other Scriptures and prayers for more information and guidance. God is not always easy to find; sometimes, we have to search Him out and look deeper into what He is saying. Solomon offers us that journey to “become a King” as well (Proverbs 25:2). Practice doing puzzles, word searches, or reading books that help you think and grow!
