May 17: Proverbs

Today's proverbs highlight the supreme value of wisdom:
"How much better to get wisdom that gold,
to choose understanding rather than silver!" (16:16)

We live in a information-saturated world. The 24-hour news cycle, millions of blogs, billions of pieces of statistical data, and billions of interpersonal relationships create a tangled Web of information. It can be overwhelming just to consider all of the possible pieces of information we might process in a single day. Coming to reliable conclusions despite the noise becomes more challenging as the number of pieces of data rises.

In contrast to this worldly knowledge, however, stands wisdom. As we may infer from these verses, only God can give wisdom. It is a marvelous gift that gives life and allows us to bless others. It helps to put life into perspective and allows us to determine the proper priorities. A key verse reminds us:

"In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight." (3:7,8)


To handle wisdom, we need a discerning heart and listening ear:

"Apply your heart to instruction
and your ears to words of knowledge." (23:12)


We may see from other verses that it is imperative for us to seek out wisdom, much in the way that we must intentionally seek after God. Wisdom will not just fall into our laps; rather, we must strive to obtain and live out this wisdom. Wisdom clearly does not come when we seek to dominate conversations or flatter ourselves. Instead, wisdom comes to the humble and the patient -- to those willing to listen. This humility may be summed up in this verse:

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,
and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." (9:10)


Wisdom then imparts the grace that we need to understand and treasure God's sovereignty. We may plan for the future, like good stewards of the time and talents God has given us, but ultimately:

"Many are the plans in a man's heart,
but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails." (19:21)


From Romans 8:28, we know that His will is ultimately for the best: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."


QUESTION

How can you better apply this promise?

"By wisdom a house I built,
and through understanding it is established;
through knoledge its rooms are filled
with rare and beautiful treasures." (24:3,4)