Proverbs 3:13-18 (ESV)

[13] Blessed is the one who finds wisdom,

and the one who gets understanding,

[14] for the gain from her is better than gain from silver

and her profit better than gold.

[15] She is more precious than jewels,

and nothing you desire can compare with her.

[16] Long life is in her right hand;

in her left hand are riches and honor.

[17] Her ways are ways of pleasantness,

and all her paths are peace.

[18] She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her;

those who hold her fast are called blessed.

Wisdom brings blessing according to God’s covenant with his people. Wisdom is not, however, intended to be hoarded for selfish gain. It is intended to result in service to others. “Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Go, and come again, tomorrow I will give it’—when you have it with you” (Prov 3:28). Wisdom is sourced in God. How do we find it? Are there prerequisites to gaining wisdom?

The first twelve verses of Proverbs 3 lay out five key principles. First, wisdom is not just about intellectual knowledge. Wisdom is to be embraced from the heart. “My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments” (Prov 3:1). Second, wisdom cannot be separated from faith. “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding” (Prov 3:5). Third, humility is foundational to gaining wisdom. “Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil” (Prov 3:7). Fourth, wisdom cannot be separated from stewardship. How we use what God has blessed us with is important. “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce” (Prov 3:9). Fifth, do not ignore or rebel against God’s discipline. “My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline or be weary of his reproof” (Prov 3:11).

These first twelve verses lay out five essential principles concerning wisdom. Could it be that there appears to be so little wisdom in our world because we have neglected these five principles? Rather than understanding wisdom as an aspect of the heart, we have chased after intellectual information. Instead of understanding that faith is an integral part of wisdom, we have rejected faith as the opposite of wisdom. Instead of humbling seeking the wisdom of God, we have pursued fame, or at least personal affirmation for our accomplishments. Instead of understanding that wisdom is available to us for the purpose of serving others, we have made it about the accumulation of stuff in the pursuit of personal peace and affluence. Finally, instead of valuing God’s discipline, we have chosen to view it as an indication that God is cruel and mean. We have failed to understand the very foundations of real wisdom.

Today, as we listen to God’s Word, may we reevaluate our own personal priorities. May we learn to walk humbly before our God from the heart. May we learn to trust him deeply, and appreciate his love demonstrated in discipline. May we understand that all we have is a gift from God intended to be used for his glory and the service of others. It is never for the purpose of hoarding it for ourselves. May we begin to get a glimpse of true wisdom. Lord, teach us.