Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- August 25, 2010
“But where can wisdom be found? Where does understanding dwell? Man does not comprehend its worth… And he said to man, ‘The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding’.” Job 28:12-13a, 28
Wisdom is like money, as its value compounds over time. When we regularly add wisdom to our life we become wealthy in the ways of God. What is wisdom? Why is it so valuable? It is the ability to discern right from wrong, and to understand what is true and lasting. It exposes the devil’s deceptions and lies. Wisdom frees us to know God’s ways.
Furthermore, a life built on the foundation of wisdom can withstand the winds of change and the waves of adversity. Wisdom keeps you engaged with God’s perspective. It is a life preserver for the drowning, a compass for the lost explorer, and a light in a dark and perplexed situation. However, there is a price to pay in the process of its discovery and acquisition. But once wisdom lodges in a mind and heart: it grows wise, humble leaders.
Its value does not fluctuate with the stock market—instead it consistently increases over time. Gray hair does not guarantee wisdom, but examined experience does position you to obtain wisdom. It is possible to be an old fool or to be wise beyond your years. Youth or aged, smart or an average IQ, you can gain wisdom. Seek out the wisdom of God and you will find it. This eternal intentionality with holy aggression pays divine dividends.
Wisdom begins and ends with the fear of God. The truly enlightened engage God in the equation of life. Indeed, you fly life solo without your Savior’s insights. The fear of God means you involve Him in your attitude and actions—you meditate on His ways and His truth. As followers of the Lord, “We have the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16).
By God’s grace wisdom allows you to synthesize multiple options into the best course of action. Wisdom can take a complex situation and offer simple solutions. It has the uncanny ability of cutting through the layers of agendas and motives to the real issues. Wisdom is a no nonsense defender of common sense and truth. It is very practical.
However, wisdom resides with God. He owns the trademark and the patent. Anyone who attempts to take credit for its effectiveness could lose the rights of its use. So seek out wise individuals that humbly depend on God, who give Him the credit for the wisdom entrusted to them. Humility mixed with wisdom builds relational and eternal wealth.
“To God belong wisdom and power; counsel and understanding are his” (Job 12:13).
Am I intentional to seek out the wisdom God in my daily life and work?
Related Readings: 1 Kings 3:28; Ezra 7:25; Luke 2:40; 1 Corinthians 1:20-30
Boyd Bailey is the author of Wisdom Hunters daily devotional and two devotional books, Infusion and Seeking Daily the Heart of God
