We are still on Proverbs 1. Starting with verse 20, we read about wisdom and how it is calling out to us. This is actually not an audible voice calling out… it is the mind of God. Isn’t Jesus the Word made flesh—the Living Word? We can see wisdom lived out in Christ’s life. In order for us to really understand, all we need to do is look to Jesus. The Bible identifies Christ as the “wisdom of God.”
“But to those called by God to salvation, both Jews and Gentiles, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God.” 1 Corinthians 1: 24
“If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind.”
James 1: 5
My Bible Commentary says, “ Christians don’t have to grope around in the dark, hoping to stumble upon answers. We can ask for God’s wisdom to guide our choices.” I really love that.
This wisdom is what we have as an instrument by which trials are overcome. Here’s the difference between intelligence and wisdom…intelligent people may have lofty and profound ideas, but the wise person puts those ideas into action. Also, God’s wisdom goes beyond our common sense. Think about that. How in the world can someone choose to be joyful in the midst of a devastating trial? Again, having this kind of wisdom begins with God. It’s Christlike. Asking for wisdom is ultimately asking to be like Christ. Knowing Him personally is the greatest wisdom anyone can have.
Many Proverbs, as we will come to study, point out that the “bitter fruit of living their own way” will be the consequence many people will experience in this life. Many choose to go it alone when faced with persisting in their own rebellious independence or choosing the wisdom of God. Don’t they understand that some of the problems they create for themselves will eventually destroy them? No doubt about it…Choosing God’s way and heeding His advice sometimes is painful, but it will keep us from greater, much greater pain in the future.
We’ll continue with Proverbs Monday. Have a nice weekend:)