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Wisdom and Knowledge : God's grace in the life of Solomon
128 pages, Paperback
Published February 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
April 23, 2026
I’m really thankful that Wisdom & Knowledge by Jonathan Griffiths was sent to me by 10ofthose, especially as it was already on my reading list.
First, I have to mention the physical book itself. The cover is beautiful and feels lovely to the touch, the cream pages are easy on the eyes, and the font is clear and readable. As someone who struggles with dry eyes, this genuinely matters. The book is also short and divided into manageable sections, making it easy to read in smaller portions without losing focus.
What I found especially helpful was how the book doesn’t idealise Solomon. Instead, it presents him as he really is—gifted with wisdom, yet still capable of serious failure. That balance made the book feel honest, and it helped me see more clearly how God’s grace is at work even in an inconsistent life.
As I read, I was struck by how Solomon’s life quietly points beyond itself. His role, his responsibilities, even his achievements—they all hint at something greater, but never quite reach it. That contrast made me reflect more deeply on Jesus, not just as a wiser king, but as the only one who perfectly fulfils what Solomon could not.
The section on the Queen of Sheba also stayed with me. Her determination to seek out the truth for herself made me stop and think about how seriously I pursue Christ. It’s easy to be familiar with things about Him, but that’s not the same as truly seeking Him.
There were several lines that really stayed with me. One that stood out was:
“Success would mean nothing and would be fleeting if it is not grounded in integrity and obedience.”
That’s such an important reminder, especially in the context of serving the Lord—obedience must be the foundation.
Another helpful and sobering point was this:
“Our problem is rarely that we do not know what is right and what is wrong… more often, like Solomon, we choose to ignore what we know to be true.”
That felt uncomfortably accurate, in a needed way.
I was also struck by the reminder that spiritual vigilance doesn’t fade with age:
“The old nature does not give up when you retire or when you turn 100… the call to godliness, to service, to devotion to Jesus does not diminish.”
That’s something I hadn’t really considered before, but it’s deeply wise.
There are also small prayers woven throughout, which I appreciated. One simple but meaningful line was:
“Do not forsake us. Lord, cause us to be faithful.”
I also liked the practical encouragement for those exploring faith—to go directly to the source, to read Scripture for themselves rather than relying on secondhand opinions about Jesus.
Overall, this is a clear, thoughtful, and spiritually helpful devotional. It’s especially useful for personal Bible study or small groups, with questions that help you reflect more deeply on the text.
That said, I did find myself wanting a bit more—either more depth in places or more expansion on certain themes. Because of that, this is a strong 4-star read for me rather than a full 5.
Still, a meaningful and worthwhile book that points clearly to Christ while honestly engaging with the life of Solomon.
First, I have to mention the physical book itself. The cover is beautiful and feels lovely to the touch, the cream pages are easy on the eyes, and the font is clear and readable. As someone who struggles with dry eyes, this genuinely matters. The book is also short and divided into manageable sections, making it easy to read in smaller portions without losing focus.
What I found especially helpful was how the book doesn’t idealise Solomon. Instead, it presents him as he really is—gifted with wisdom, yet still capable of serious failure. That balance made the book feel honest, and it helped me see more clearly how God’s grace is at work even in an inconsistent life.
As I read, I was struck by how Solomon’s life quietly points beyond itself. His role, his responsibilities, even his achievements—they all hint at something greater, but never quite reach it. That contrast made me reflect more deeply on Jesus, not just as a wiser king, but as the only one who perfectly fulfils what Solomon could not.
The section on the Queen of Sheba also stayed with me. Her determination to seek out the truth for herself made me stop and think about how seriously I pursue Christ. It’s easy to be familiar with things about Him, but that’s not the same as truly seeking Him.
There were several lines that really stayed with me. One that stood out was:
“Success would mean nothing and would be fleeting if it is not grounded in integrity and obedience.”
That’s such an important reminder, especially in the context of serving the Lord—obedience must be the foundation.
Another helpful and sobering point was this:
“Our problem is rarely that we do not know what is right and what is wrong… more often, like Solomon, we choose to ignore what we know to be true.”
That felt uncomfortably accurate, in a needed way.
I was also struck by the reminder that spiritual vigilance doesn’t fade with age:
“The old nature does not give up when you retire or when you turn 100… the call to godliness, to service, to devotion to Jesus does not diminish.”
That’s something I hadn’t really considered before, but it’s deeply wise.
There are also small prayers woven throughout, which I appreciated. One simple but meaningful line was:
“Do not forsake us. Lord, cause us to be faithful.”
I also liked the practical encouragement for those exploring faith—to go directly to the source, to read Scripture for themselves rather than relying on secondhand opinions about Jesus.
Overall, this is a clear, thoughtful, and spiritually helpful devotional. It’s especially useful for personal Bible study or small groups, with questions that help you reflect more deeply on the text.
That said, I did find myself wanting a bit more—either more depth in places or more expansion on certain themes. Because of that, this is a strong 4-star read for me rather than a full 5.
Still, a meaningful and worthwhile book that points clearly to Christ while honestly engaging with the life of Solomon.
February 20, 2026
In Wisdom & Knowledge, Jonathan Griffiths shows us God’s grace at work in the life of Solomon.
God’s Grace and Kindness
This devotional commentary presents Solomon as a “complex and compromised character.” Rather than portraying him as a flawless hero, Griffiths helps us see Solomon’s humanity—his strengths, weaknesses, obedience, and failures. When we recognize that Solomon is human, we are better able to see the depth of God’s grace and kindness throughout his life.
The wisdom of Solomon ultimately points us to the greater wisdom of our Savior. We can trust Jesus to rule our lives in this world with perfect wisdom and justice. As Solomon carries out the work of the kingdom, we see that it is the Lord who provides what he needs. Even the building of the temple unfolds according to God’s timeline and sovereign plan.
The Lord’s Anointed King
I was especially interested in how the book explains that Solomon points to our Savior. As the Lord’s anointed king, Solomon provides his people with access to God’s presence, intercession on their behalf, blessing, sacrifice, and joy. Yet even in these roles, he foreshadows a greater King. Through this lens, I was reminded of the privilege we have in belonging to King Jesus.
I was particularly moved by the account of the Queen of Sheba. Though she was a foreigner—a Gentile—she brought her very best and made a long journey to seek the king. Her response challenges me to do the same: to seek Christ earnestly and offer him my best.
Solomon is Only Human
I was most helped by the chapter examining Solomon’s later years. I had often wondered what to make of Solomon’s love for foreign women and his many marriages. The book wisely cautions readers to beware of the peril of the loves of the heart, the perils that can come in the later years of life. Solomon’s decline serves as a sober warning.
Of course, Solomon is only human. This fascinating book shows us his life—both his wisdom and his weaknesses—and points us beyond himself to our great King, Jesus, who reigns in perfect faithfulness.
I received a media copy of Wisdom & Knowledge and this is my honest review. @diveindigdeep
God’s Grace and Kindness
This devotional commentary presents Solomon as a “complex and compromised character.” Rather than portraying him as a flawless hero, Griffiths helps us see Solomon’s humanity—his strengths, weaknesses, obedience, and failures. When we recognize that Solomon is human, we are better able to see the depth of God’s grace and kindness throughout his life.
The wisdom of Solomon ultimately points us to the greater wisdom of our Savior. We can trust Jesus to rule our lives in this world with perfect wisdom and justice. As Solomon carries out the work of the kingdom, we see that it is the Lord who provides what he needs. Even the building of the temple unfolds according to God’s timeline and sovereign plan.
The Lord’s Anointed King
I was especially interested in how the book explains that Solomon points to our Savior. As the Lord’s anointed king, Solomon provides his people with access to God’s presence, intercession on their behalf, blessing, sacrifice, and joy. Yet even in these roles, he foreshadows a greater King. Through this lens, I was reminded of the privilege we have in belonging to King Jesus.
I was particularly moved by the account of the Queen of Sheba. Though she was a foreigner—a Gentile—she brought her very best and made a long journey to seek the king. Her response challenges me to do the same: to seek Christ earnestly and offer him my best.
Solomon is Only Human
I was most helped by the chapter examining Solomon’s later years. I had often wondered what to make of Solomon’s love for foreign women and his many marriages. The book wisely cautions readers to beware of the peril of the loves of the heart, the perils that can come in the later years of life. Solomon’s decline serves as a sober warning.
Of course, Solomon is only human. This fascinating book shows us his life—both his wisdom and his weaknesses—and points us beyond himself to our great King, Jesus, who reigns in perfect faithfulness.
I received a media copy of Wisdom & Knowledge and this is my honest review. @diveindigdeep
February 22, 2026
A very clearly written and wonderful devotional commentary on life of King Solomon from chapters 1-11 of 1 Kings from the Bible. The book is short but packs deep wisdom. Divided into six short expositions on the given scripture passages, it is a meaningful resource for personal Bible study as well as for small group Bible studies with questions for discussion at the end. The book can be read by itself but it would be useful to follow along after reading the corresponding scripture for gleaning deeper truths.
The language is very clear, concise like listening to a good sermon. I like how the humanity of Solomon is expounded upon. With all his wisdom, knowledge, wealth and peaceful reign, he is only a weaker foreshadow of the ultimate and eternal kingdom of Jesus. The book goes back and forth with relevant examples from Bible and real life so you always understand the context even if you do not have the best knowledge of the Bible.
God’s grace is highlighted throughout the book- His grace in the advancement of his kingdom, his abundant provision in the building of the temple, the unthinkable joys, blessings for His people, and the consequences of spurning God’s grace. What stands out is the visit from Queen of Sheba- how she came to test Solomon but was impressed and chose to give the best from her kingdom’s riches to a king who has abundance of everything including wisdom. Some practical lessons how we should be vary of hero/idol worships, give our best to God in His grace, perils of being lukewarm and look to Jesus who is the greater King ‘who gave His life to save us and calls each of us trust him, love him and live out his love to a graceless world.’
The language is very clear, concise like listening to a good sermon. I like how the humanity of Solomon is expounded upon. With all his wisdom, knowledge, wealth and peaceful reign, he is only a weaker foreshadow of the ultimate and eternal kingdom of Jesus. The book goes back and forth with relevant examples from Bible and real life so you always understand the context even if you do not have the best knowledge of the Bible.
God’s grace is highlighted throughout the book- His grace in the advancement of his kingdom, his abundant provision in the building of the temple, the unthinkable joys, blessings for His people, and the consequences of spurning God’s grace. What stands out is the visit from Queen of Sheba- how she came to test Solomon but was impressed and chose to give the best from her kingdom’s riches to a king who has abundance of everything including wisdom. Some practical lessons how we should be vary of hero/idol worships, give our best to God in His grace, perils of being lukewarm and look to Jesus who is the greater King ‘who gave His life to save us and calls each of us trust him, love him and live out his love to a graceless world.’
February 3, 2026
(I received a complimentary copy of this title. All opinions expressed are my own.)
“If God calls you to undertake his work for the cause of the gospel, He will provide everything in a comprehensive way because the work of the Lord rests upon his gracious provision.” -Jonathan Griffiths
What an impactful book.
Wisdom and Knowledge takes readers throughout Kings in the Bible and goes over King Solomon’s rise and his eventual fall.
King Solomon was granted incredible wisdom by God and attained greatness in the world only to drift from God and embrace idols in the end. His fall impacted not only himself but the nation. There is so much for us to learn from King Solomon’s story–ahout the human heart condition and about God’s incredible grace.
This short book holds so much and is biblically sound, encouraging, and convicting. I’d recommend reading this title in conjunction with God’s Word and pre-reading the 1 and 2 Kings chapters discussed in the text.
Highly recommend!
“If God calls you to undertake his work for the cause of the gospel, He will provide everything in a comprehensive way because the work of the Lord rests upon his gracious provision.” -Jonathan Griffiths
What an impactful book.
Wisdom and Knowledge takes readers throughout Kings in the Bible and goes over King Solomon’s rise and his eventual fall.
King Solomon was granted incredible wisdom by God and attained greatness in the world only to drift from God and embrace idols in the end. His fall impacted not only himself but the nation. There is so much for us to learn from King Solomon’s story–ahout the human heart condition and about God’s incredible grace.
This short book holds so much and is biblically sound, encouraging, and convicting. I’d recommend reading this title in conjunction with God’s Word and pre-reading the 1 and 2 Kings chapters discussed in the text.
Highly recommend!
March 24, 2026
These "devotional commentaries" hit such a needed demographic for the regular churchgoer - something a little bit deeper than a mere devotional that hits on one or two things in a passage, but something much more accessible than a verse by verse academic commentary. I hope that more in the church find their way to Jonathan Griffiths books and find in them easily applicable and rich exposition of Scripture from an author with a clear pastoral heart.
May 20, 2026
Top notch devotional on 1 Kings 1-11. Clear exposition. Deep application. Well illustrated. Highly recommended!
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews