Why did King Solomon write so much about attaining riches and wisdom?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: There are many people who are not necessarily religious but still know about the riches and wisdom of King Solomon as told in the Bible. Why did he write so much about attaining all of this and yet it was all vanity? – R.W.
A: King Solomon was convinced he knew how to find happiness—and because he had vast resources at his command, he was able to pursue it. Wealth, fame, pleasure, lavish houses, a reputation for wisdom—you name it, King Solomon achieved it. Yet after gaining everything he had ever wanted, he reluctantly concluded that his life was still empty and without meaning. His search for lasting happiness had failed, and his soul was still empty. He wrote, “I did not withhold my heart from any pleasure… then I looked on all the works that my hands had done… and indeed all was vanity” (Ecclesiastes 2:10-11).
We can be in danger of making the same mistake King Solomon made—convinced that the things of this world will bring happiness and peace, and pursuing them with all of our strength. But we are warned not to be deceived; attaining things and accomplishing our goals will not bring lasting happiness. Why? Because we are made to seek God and know Him. This is the source of true joy.
King Solomon finally realized this, though he should have known it sooner. After all, his father, David, had learned this and passed it on. Solomon himself had vowed to live according to God’s wisdom. We must not be misled by the world’s definition of happiness. The key to living a life of fulfillment and satisfaction is found in making Christ the center and foundation of life.
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
©2021 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(c)2021 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
