Solomon teaches that wisdom is seen in fearing the king and submitting to God-ordained authority. The wise honour the king, obey his lawful commands, and act with patience and discernment, remembering that their ultimate obedience belongs to God, who alone has absolute authority.

Psalm 27:4 reveals David’s one supreme desire: “One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after.” He longed to dwell in the house of the LORD, behold the beauty of the LORD, and inquire in His temple. Above every earthly concern, David desired constant communion with God through His appointed means of grace.

Solomon concludes that true wisdom cannot be found apart from God’s Word, and that the fear of the Lord is the key to a truly balanced life. He reminds us that there is no perfectly righteous person on earth except Jesus Christ, who came to save sinners and give them His righteousness. Only through Christ can we stand accepted before God and walk in wisdom.

Solomon teaches that adversity and difficulty reveal whether a person will respond with wisdom or folly. The wise exercise self-control under oppression, are patient and humble in uncertain situations, are “slow to anger,” and learn to live contentedly in the present. Though wealth offers some protection, “wisdom giveth life to them that have it,” and is therefore better than riches.

The apostle Peter reminds us that “ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house,” with Christ as the living and chief corner stone. As stones fitted together, each believer has a place in the church of Christ, shaped and joined in love, growing steadily into a dwelling place for God through the Spirit.