Wisdom has a voice
Does not wisdom cry out, and understanding lift up her voice? She takes her stand on the top of the high hill, beside the way, where the paths meet. She cries out by the gates, at the entry of the city, at the entrance of the doors:
Wow! I read this chapter this morning and these verses jumped out at me. Wisdom is crying out. Its not a secret. You don’t have to be a member of some secret society or an exclusive club. She is everywhere you go. On a high hill or on the way to somewhere or even at a busy crossroads. In the city or inside a quiet place. So why does it seem so elusive most of the time. I find I make decisions based on past experience, cost or opinion. However, there is a way to make decisions based on wisdom and it should be obvious according to this chapter. We should be able to hear wisdom loud and clear.
What is hindering us from getting wisdom all day long? What is limiting our ability to hear the voice of wisdom? According to this chapter, it is the things that we are seeking instead of wisdom that blocks her voice from getting through. The things that repel wisdom are listed out in this chapter.
- Understand wisdom is worth more than any precious thing (vs. 10)
- Wisdom is being able to see beyond the moment (vs. 12)
- The fear of the LORD (vs. 13)
- Hate evil, pride, arrogance, the evil way and a perverse mouth (vs. 13).
The secret is in taking time to listen and be open to an answer that is beyond our simple understanding. Wisdom is bigger than we are and sees the big picture always. It doesn’t take short cuts or settle. Wisdom is always talking. Like a beacon, it pings for all to hear. Verse 17 says, I (wisdom) love those who love me (wisdom), and those who seek me (wisdom) diligently will find me (wisdom). So, wisdom is always out there, but only those who love it and seek it have it (wisdom).
So, what about you? Are you seeking wisdom? Do you love wisdom? Is it more precious to you than fine gold or choice silver? Or are you like verse 36 that says, But those who miss me injure themselves. All who hate me love death.
Today I want to encourage you to seek and desire wisdom above all! Take time to listen for wisdom. In this time of retreat and distancing from others, get quiet before the LORD and ask the Holy Spirit to show you how to hear the voice of wisdom. Wisdom causes those who love her to inherit wealth and fills their treasures. (vs.21) Fill your treasury today, so you can help spread the good news of wisdom around the world.
Today’s scripture reading: proverbs 8