Understanding the Lives of Great People of the Bible

For Catholics, Scripture is not simply something we read occasionally or hear proclaimed at Mass. The Word of God invites us into a relationship with God and challenges us to allow our faith to influence the way we live.

The stories of  biblical figures can become a mirror for our own lives. We can ask ourselves: What does David teach me about courage? What does Solomon teach me about wisdom and remaining faithful? What does Joseph teach me about forgiveness? What does Peter teach me about failure and returning to Christ? What does Paul teach me about conversion? And, perhaps most importantly, what is God asking me to change in my own life?

Solomon: Wisdom Must Be Lived

Solomon was known for his wisdom. When given an opportunity to ask God for something, he asked for wisdom to govern God’s people.

This is a beautiful lesson for us. How often do we pray only for things we want? We ask God for financial blessings, employment, healing, success, protection and solutions to our problems. These prayers are important. But Solomon’s prayer reminds us that we should also ask God for wisdom.

“Lord, help me to make the right decision.”

“Lord, help me to know what is right.”

“Lord, help me to become a better husband, wife, parent, child, friend or neighbour.”

“Lord, help me to know how to use the gifts You have given me.”

But Solomon’s life also contains a warning. Although he received extraordinary wisdom and blessings, his heart eventually became divided. His story shows us that possessing wisdom is not enough. We must live according to the wisdom God gives us.

This is relevant to Catholics today.

We can attend Mass regularly, know prayers, receive the sacraments and still struggle to put our faith into practice.

Our faith cannot remain inside the church building. It must follow us home. It must enter our workplaces. It must influence the way we speak to our children. It must affect how we treat strangers. It must influence how we respond to people who disagree with us. It must shape the way we treat the poor, vulnerable, elderly and lonely. It must influence the way we use our money, our talents and our opportunities.

Solomon therefore asks each of us a challenging question: Am I only hearing God’s wisdom, or am I actually living it?

Next up: Joseph