Administer justice. Has that ever shown up on your job description? If you work with people, be they little peeps or big ones, you can bet the need for justice will arise. Whether we play referee for the kids at home or negotiate contract terms, we all benefit when justice prevails. 

Many of us have heard about King Solomon’s request for wisdom, but perhaps you’re like me and there’s a part of the verse you missed:

The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for this [wisdom]. So God said to him, “Since you have asked for this and not for long life or wealth for yourself, nor have asked for the death of your enemies but for discernment in administering justice, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be . . . When all Israel heard the verdict the king had given, they held the king in awe, because they saw that he had wisdom from God to administer justice. (1 Kings 3:10-12, 28, emphasis mine)

Merriam-Webster defines justice: the administration of what is just; the quality of being just, impartial, or fair; and conformity to truth, fact, or reason. 

Justice means a lot to God—so much so that His Son sacrificed His life in order for God’s justice to be met and for forgiveness to be extended to you and to me. 

Solomon knew he was responsible for dispensing justice to his kingdom. And you are responsible for it in your corner of the world. How can you carry out your responsibility? By asking for wisdom as Solomon did.

James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”

God-given wisdom helped Solomon discern the true mother when two prostitutes wrangled over an infant. 

God-given wisdom helps parents problem-solve when only one piece of cake is left and both kids want it.

God-given wisdom allows the manager to negotiate a fair deal for his sales team with upper management that’s a win-win for both. 

God-given wisdom led Chik-fil-a and Hobby Lobby to take Sundays off so their employees could attend church and enjoy family time. Sales increased.

Wisdom to administer justice—it’s God’s specialty. Just ask for it. 

Workout for the Week: Wisdom to Administer Justice

Memory Verse: “When all Israel heard the verdict the king had given, they held the king in awe, because they saw that he had wisdom from God to administer justice.” 1 Kings 3:28

Meditation Passage: 1 Kings 3

Do It: Ask God for wisdom as you administer justice in your sphere today.