How Much Better

By Hunter Grills

May 26, 2026

Proverbs 16:16 How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!

When Solomon began to reign after his father David, he made a request to God.

In 2 Chronicles 1:10, the Bible reads “Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people: for who can judge this thy people, that is so great?”

This request for wisdom and knowledge to lead the nation of Israel was pleasing to the Lord. Unlike most political figures, Solomon was not asking for wealth and riches but rather God’s divine help in leading God’s people. As a result, God gives Solomon riches wealth and honor.

2 Chronicles 1:11-12 And God said to Solomon, Because this was in thine heart, and thou hast not asked riches, wealth, or honour, nor the life of thine enemies, neither yet hast asked long life; but hast asked wisdom and knowledge for thyself, that thou mayest judge my people, over whom I have made thee king: 12 Wisdom and knowledge is granted unto thee; and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honour, such as none of the kings have had that have been before thee, neither shall there any after thee have the like.

When Solomon wrote the book of Proverbs, he made many references to wisdom, knowledge, understanding, wealth, riches, and honor.  With both wisdom and wealth, King Solomon still proclaimed that wisdom is better than wealth.

Many young people are being encouraged to graduate, chase their dreams, and make as much money as possible. Solomon certainly did not agree with this concept of life. May we as God’s children seek godly wisdom for it is much better.

Proverbs 8:11 For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.

Reflection—Wisdom and wealth can be partners, but wealth without wisdom produces a fool.