When Wisdom Cries

   As a suggestion, take the time to read Proverbs chapter one. Yes, many of you have already read it; in fact, multiple times. Nonetheless, when it comes to the Word of God, you cannot really read any of its passages too many times. Just approach it as if you’ve never read it before. It’s surprising what you’ll gain.

   In chapter one, we find wisdom calling to those who would listen, as she does even now. Look at the way she begins.

   Proverbs 1:22 How long, ye simple (naïve) ones, will ye love simplicity (being simple-minded)? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?

   Being simple doesn’t necessarily equate to a simple life; in fact, it can be quite the opposite. Have you ever heard the saying, “ignorant is bliss?” In some respects that can be very true; however, choosing to be ignorant can be costly. There are some things we are better not knowing; on the other hand, there are others we better know. Burying your head in the sand can get you hurt.

   In some cases, those who love to ridicule others are willingly ignorant. They scorn those who possess knowledge and wisdom. Instead of embracing these who may help give them a leg up; they hold them in contempt. Their insecurity causes them to look at naivety is some sort of badge of honor. It’s costing them, and they don’t even realize it. Just as this passage says, “Fools hate knowledge.”

   Again wisdom cries out: “Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you” (Proverbs 1:23).

What Happens When One Rejects Wisdom?

   What happens when an individual rejects Wisdom’s cry? Let’s allow her to answer that question.

    “Because I called and you refused, I stretched out my hand and no one paid attention; And you neglected all my counsel And did not want my reproof; I will also laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your dread comes, When your dread comes like a storm And your calamity comes like a whirlwind, When distress and anguish come upon you.

   Then they will call on me, but I will not answer; They will seek me diligently but they will not find me, Because they hated knowledge And did not choose the fear of the LORD. They would not accept my counsel; They spurned all my reproof.

   So they shall eat of the fruit of their own way And be satiated with their own devices. For the waywardness of the naive will kill them, And the complacency of fools will destroy them” (Proverbs 1:24-32).

   Being willingly ignorant leads to self-sabotage! It would behoove us all to ask ourselves if we are willing to hear the truth. If not, why not? Insisting on having things our way, may not be that wise in the end.   

What Happens When One Embraces Wisdom?

   Proverbs 1:33 But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.

   Godly wisdom is a prerequisite for a truly quiet, peaceful life. Wisdom gives us the needed insight to handle difficult situations, or head them off. It gives us the ability to correctly interact with God and people. When walking in such wisdom, you never have to fear evil. Moreover, you find confidence for living, which goes beyond self-confidence.

   Proverbs 3:25-26 Be not afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh. For the LORD shall be thy Confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken.

   Proverbs 3:13-18 How blessed is the man who finds wisdom And the man who gains understanding. For her profit is better than the profit of silver And her gain better than fine gold. She is more precious than jewels; And nothing you desire compares with her. Long life is in her right hand; In her left hand are riches and honor.

Some Characteristics of Godly Wisdom

   James 3:17-16 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.

   Peace comes from godly wisdom; with worldly wisdom, not so much (read James 3:14-16). Wisdom from above is pure and righteous. When obtaining counsel from others, ask yourself if what’s being said aligns with Scripture. Does it bear witness, bring you peace and clarity? Stating the obvious, if you find yourself stirred up and confused, chances are it’s not from above. One possible exception would be a lack of willingness to listen to the truth. Another one would be truth is coming up against a lie you believe to be true (a stronghold).

   When we are willing to listen, true wisdom is gentle and easy to receive.

   Proverbs 3:17-18. Her ways are pleasant ways And all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, And happy are all who hold her fast.

   Finally, wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord. Those who do not have godly fear are unwise. This includes those who may look wise and are doing quite well in the world. If they don’t fear Him, will they do as well in Heaven? Hmmm.

   Proverbs 9:9-12 Give instruction to a wise man and he will be still wiser, Teach a righteous man and he will increase his learning. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. For by Me your days will be multiplied, And years of life will be added to you. If you are wise, you are wise for yourself, And if you scoff, you alone will bear it.

www.perfectfaith.org