Solomon is recognized as the wisest man who ever lived. He would also have a wing in the Blockhead Hall of Fame. Solomon is a study in contrasts. His early days are marked with great accomplishment, glory, and honor. His latter days are filled with despair and strife. Not so coincidently, his highs and lows reflect his relationship with God.

It is ironic that the wise sage who spoke 3,000 proverbs would become the despairing preacher of emptiness. How did Solomon get from Proverbs to Ecclesiastes? How does someone go from “Happy is the man who finds wisdom” to “In much wisdom is much grief“?

Solomon made a series of tragic mistakes that robbed him of his joy and satisfaction in life. He ignored the teaching of God’s Word. He allowed relationships to turn his heart away from God. He focused on his own glory. He pursued pleasure.

There is a lot to learn from a bad example. Solomon is one of whom we can say, “Do as he says, not as he does.” His life would have been better if he had listened to his own wise counsel. We can learn from the wisdom and the foolishness of Solomon.

Stay true to the teaching of God’s Word. Make sure your relationship with God takes priority. Deflect all praise and glory toward God. Live to please God.