*Misunderstandings and Misinterpretations*

*1 Kings 3:10-11*
[10] It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked for wisdom.
[11] God said to him, “Because you have asked for this and have not asked for a long life, riches, or the lives of your enemies, but have asked for understanding to recognize what is just and right, I will grant your request.”

Many people in the Bible had their prayers answered by the Lord, but only Solomon’s prayer is explicitly noted as pleasing to God. The reason for this distinction lies in God’s deep appreciation for wisdom and understanding, which is why the book of Proverbs—a collection of wisdom—is included in the Bible.

“So many have lost their destinies and the great plans of God because of misunderstandings and misinterpretations.”

*Examples of Misinterpretations of Jesus’ Words:*

In *John 2:19-21*, Jesus said, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” The Jews responded, “It took forty-six years to build this temple, and will You raise it up in three days?” But He was actually speaking about the temple of His body.

On another occasion, Jesus warned His disciples to be cautious of the leaven of the Pharisees. However, they misunderstood His warning, thinking He was referring to bread that they had not brought with them (*John 16:6-12*).

Judas, one of Jesus’ disciples who betrayed Him for just thirty silver coins, misunderstood Christ’s mission. After being with Jesus for 3.5 years, he may have believed Jesus was the Messiah who would overthrow the Roman Empire, reclaim the throne of David, and restore Israel’s power. In reality, Jesus’ kingdom was founded on self-sacrifice, humility, healing the sick, and spiritual restoration from the devil and his forces.

Judas might have thought that betraying Jesus would somehow elevate His ministry, believing that Jesus would effortlessly defeat His captors and ascend to power. Instead, Jesus was beaten and mocked, ultimately leading to His crucifixion. When Judas realized the outcome of his betrayal, he became discouraged and took his own life.

We should seek and ask for wisdom to avoid misinterpreting and misunderstanding the plans that God has ordained for us. This is why God was pleased with Solomon’s prayer and answered it.