“Wisdom is not a collection of beliefs or abstractions but is a Person.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – December 28, 2024
I, Wisdom, live together with good judgment. I know where to discover knowledge and discernment. Proverbs 8:12, NLT
I came of age with a single question at the forefront of my mind: “What should I believe?” I was formed in a Christian tradition that put great emphasis on doctrine and dogma, seeking to ensure we spoke well and clearly about the Lord and things of the faith. While I am filled with appreciation for much of this emphasis, increasingly, I’m in a season of life in which a different question lingers in my mind and on my heart: “How should I live?”
Of course, these questions are not mutually exclusive, as right understanding of the Lord is closely related to faithful living. Yet, the difference in emphasis is notable. If we aren’t careful, there can be an over-emphasis on knowledge, assuming that correct belief in and of itself leads us into a life of holiness and virtue. Of this, I’m less and less convinced. It’s possible to have right belief in our minds and still have hearts that are entirely devoid of love for God and neighbor.
We need to not only know about God, but to live daily in his presence.
In Proverbs 8:12, we are told where to discover knowledge and discernment, and in truth, it’s less of a “where” and more of a “who,” for Wisdom is not a collection of beliefs or abstractions but is a person. Jesus Christ is the Wisdom of God, as Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 1:24, and we learn what to believe and how to live by staying close to him and loving what he loves.
If you find yourself in a spiritual rut, struggling to know where you belong or what you believe, perhaps wondering why God feels distant and uninvolved, a renewed focus on Jesus Christ is always the way forward. To be a “wisdom hunter” is to seek daily after the abiding presence of Christ. Pursue him in prayer. Live as he lived, serving the poor and the outcast. Give freely of your time and money. This is the way that leads to Wisdom, training our minds and steadying our hearts in the way that is straight and true.
Prayer
Father, remind us that Wisdom is always relational and personal. Draw us close to Jesus today, and steady our hearts in the way that is true. Amen.
Application
In light of today’s reflection, consider how to more fully abide in the Wisdom of God, Jesus Christ, in your current season of life.
Related Reading
1 Kings 3:9; Philippians 1:9-10; James 1:5
Worship Resource
Brian Johnson: He Has Done Great Things
Donate
If you are blessed by these daily devotionals please prayerfully consider a donation to support Wisdom Hunters Resources. We are trusting the Lord for His provision.
Download our app!
