Proverbs 1:1-4:27
We began the book of Proverbs. Solomon’s purpose was “to teach people wisdom”
(1:2). It is obvious
that wisdom played an important part in his life. He asked the Lord for it (1 Kings 3) and he wrote two
books about it (Proverbs, Ecclesiastes), but the question is why? Perhaps it was
because his father, David, impressed upon him the significance of having
wisdom. “Learn to be wise,” he said, “and develop good judgment. Don’t turn
your back on wisdom... Getting wisdom is the most important thing you can do” (4:4-9).
So then, wisdom is important, but what is wisdom, where does it come
from, and how do we attain it? Obviously, I don’t have space here to answer
these questions fully, but let’s consider a few simple truths to get us
started.
First, what is wisdom? Noah Webster defined wisdom as “the right use
of knowledge,” but the most important knowledge we can acquire is that of God, the origin of
knowledge. That’s why Solomon wrote, “Knowledge of the Holy One is the
beginning of understanding” (9:10). Insinuated here, in Solomon’s sound words, is
the belief that one cannot be truly wise without knowledge of and
reverence for the Lord. Therefore, we must acquire as much accurate knowledge of God as possible, in order to
rightly perceive the world around us.
Second, where does wisdom come from? Again, Solomon wrote, “The Lord
grants wisdom! From His mouth (His Word) come knowledge and understanding” (2:6). God is
not a source of wisdom; He is the Source of wisdom. Everything and
everyone else is a re-source of God’s wisdom. We must keep this truth in mind
when we read books, hear sermons and speeches, watch the news, or consider the
sage advice of a prominent figure.
While truths may be gathered from many sources, they must all be
weighed against the Truth, that is God’s nature and character, which have been revealed to us
in His Word, the Bible, and through His Son Jesus Christ. While God created men
to think, to reason, and to postulate on any given subject, men are flawed. We do
not filter God’s Word through man’s reasoning, but rather we filter man’s reasoning
through God’s Word.
Third, how do we attain wisdom? While fear of the Lord is the
beginning of wisdom, it is through the diligent intake of Scripture that our knowledge of God
increases and
our opportunity for true wisdom improves. So then, let’s add a few words to
Webster’s definition of wisdom: wisdom is the right use of the
knowledge of God. The more knowledge that we acquire of the Lord and apply in our
lives, then the more visible the benefits of wisdom will become.
Daily Reflection
Here are some benefits you will discover when you acquire and apply
the knowledge of God in your life. You will grow to love Him more. You will
live in obedience to His expectations. You will begin to think more like Him;
and, you will be able to identify truth and error more readily.
Do you see these benefits in your life? Are you pursuing wisdom? Are
you pursuing God?
“Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom; instead, fear the Lord...” (3:7).
BiAY.org |Day 147 — 218 Days to Go
No comments:
Post a Comment