Thought for the Day

The book of Proverbs tells us to get wisdom, but where do we find it and what exactly is it? The dictionary lists these definitions for wisdom: (1) the quality of being wise; power of judging rightly and following the soundest course of action; good judgment; (2) learning; knowledge; the wisdom of the ages (3) wise discourse or teaching.

Verses 1-4 - Since God has always existed, He has all knowledge. His wisdom truly is the "wisdom of the ages." Using poetic imagery, Proverbs contrasts godly wisdom (pictured as a righteous woman), with worldly wisdom, (pictured as a wicked whore at the end of chapter nine).

Wisdom offers a righteous path to follow. She is not hard to find. She is crying out in the "gates." In Biblical times, most cities had thick walls built around them and huge gates to close at night to keep out enemies. Near the open gates, was the meeting place of the city's elders. They presided over the city's affairs, even as members of city councils do today, watching what came into the city and marketplace and making judgments on safety, commerce, and legal matters.

One way that a young Christian "seeks wisdom in the gates" today is by going to his elders for godly advice. They can help guide him in the right path for his life. God has sent the Bible and His preachers into the world so that all may hear His wisdom. Finding wisdom is not hard, but heeding it can be hard unless we surrender to God.

Verses 5-11 - We will understand what God is saying to us, if we seek Him with all our hearts. He will make His will very clear to us. His instruction is better than silver. His knowledge is better than gold, His wisdom is better than rubies. All the earthly riches we could possibly desire cannot compare with God's wisdom. The Bible contains God's wisdom, and through Jesus, we can find our needed answers. He is the Creator of the world and more precious than all its wealth. By seeking Him and heeding the Bible, we find wisdom.