Scripture reading – Proverbs 8; Proverbs 9
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Proverbs 8 and 9 record beautiful and engaging expositions on biblical wisdom.
Proverbs 8
The Cry of Wisdom (8:1)
Solomon personified Wisdom in Proverbs 8 and appealed to his son to seek that gift only the LORD imparts. The king began with two rhetorical questions: “Doth not wisdom cry? And understanding [insight; discernment] put forth her voice?” (Proverbs 8:1).
The inference of the questions assumed the answer to each was “Yes!” Wisdom heralds her presence and lifts her voice to be heard. Godly wisdom (i.e., the skillful or proper use of knowledge) demands to be heard and heeded!
Where is Wisdom Heard? (8:2-3)
According to Solomon, those who sincerely seek godly wisdom will find her. For Wisdom “standeth in the top of high places [where cities were built in ancient times], by the way in the places of the paths [where roads intersect]. 3 She [Wisdom] crieth at the gates [where elders sat in judgment], at the entry of the city, at the coming in at the doors [in places of commerce]” (Proverbs 8:2-3).
There was a day when wisdom was accessible in all those places, for it was sought by men and women seeking spiritual insight and discernment. Wisdom, I fear, has been rejected and silenced. Wisdom’s voice is no longer welcomed in the halls of academia. Politicians, corporations, and the media decry godly wisdom. Tragically, congregations that were once devoted to truth and wisdom seek entertainment and to have their ears tickled (2 Timothy 4:3-4).
What is the Prerequisite for Acquiring Wisdom? (Psalm 111:10)
The psalmist wrote, “The fear [reverence] of the LORD is the beginning [fundamental; the most important thing] of wisdom” and he promised “a good understanding [insight; discretion] have all they that do his commandments: his praise [glory] endureth [stands; is established] for ever [eternity]” (Psalm 111:10). To acquire wisdom, discernment, and understanding, a believer must first revere and obey the LORD, and make His Word, law, and commandments his meditation “day and night” (Psalm 1:2).
Where did Wisdom Originate?
After hearing Wisdom’s appeal (Proverbs 8:4-11) and what Wisdom gives (Proverbs 8:12-21), Solomon then identified the origin of Wisdom (Proverbs 8:22-31), for it existed eternally with God.
Wisdom confessed, “The LORD possessed [birthed] me [wisdom] in the beginning” (Proverbs 8:22). Wisdom “was set up [ordained] from everlasting [eternal; perpetual], from the beginning, or ever the earth was [i.e., before the earth was created]” (Proverbs 8:23).
Jesus Christ is the Creator and Incarnation of Wisdom. (Proverbs 8:27-31; John 1:1-3, 10)
He is co-eternal with God the Father. He was present when the sun, moon, and stars were set in the heavens. He was present when the earth was formed as a globe (Proverbs 8:27). When the clouds were placed in the sky and the waters stored in the depths of the earth—Christ was there (Proverbs 8:28). When God set the boundaries of the ocean and hung the earth in space—Christ was there (Proverbs 8:29). He is co-eternal and co-equal with God the Father. He is the Architect and Creator of the earth and man (Proverbs 8:30-31; 1 Corinthians 8:6; Ephesians 3:9).
To find wisdom, one must turn to the fount of wisdom—Jesus Christ.
Proverbs 9
You will notice in reading Proverbs 9 that Wisdom was once again personified and introduced as having built a house supported by seven pillars (Proverbs 9:1).
Wisdom’s Invitation (9:1-12)
After completing the house, Wisdom invited guests to a banquet she prepared and hosted (Proverbs 9:2-6). Invitations were sent to citizens of the city, and all, including the simple, the foolish, and the scorner, were invited to attend the banquet (Proverbs 9:4-8).
To accept Wisdom’s invitation, one had to “forsake” [depart from] the company of the foolish (Proverbs 9:6). Yet, Wisdom’s invitation to separate from the foolish came with a promise: “Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way [path] of understanding [wisdom; spiritual discernment]” (Proverbs 9:6).
Closing thoughts –
What kind of life does Wisdom promise those who seek and find her?
Proverbs 9:11 – 11For by me [wisdom] thy days shall be multiplied, And the years of thy life shall be increased.
Those who seek and find Wisdom were promised more than mere survival. Wisdom promised a life of contentment. Riches will not buy a soul’s happiness. However, walking with Wisdom will bring something money cannot buy–Peace, Discernment, and Contentment.
Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith
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