Wisdom begins with a reverence for God. The Bible says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” (Proverbs 9:10, NKJ). To acknowledge the existence of God is the foundation of a wise life. To grow in one’s knowledge of God is to grow in wisdom. We learn of God primarily through His Word.
In a world of rhetoric based on half-truths, secular ideas and popular opinions, there is deep frustration when you do not know who to believe or what is truth. We need a fresh dose of God’s wisdom from His Word. How do you navigate life when you’re uncertain of truth? This brings us back to the Bible.
Solomon describes the advantage of wisdom in the book of Proverbs. He emphatically states that we must keep our eyes on God and His wisdom (3:21). There are at least four things the wisdom of God will do for your life.
First, it will adorn your life like beautiful jewelry. The Scripture says it will “be life to your soul and grace to your neck” (Proverbs 3:22). Living by the wisdom of God is visible to the world. The conduct and speech of the wise attracts the attention of others. The life guided by the wisdom of God will garner respect from a watching world.
Second, it will give your life security and stability. The Bible says, “…you will walk safely in your way, and your foot will not stumble” (Proverbs 3:23). Jesus instructed His disciples to seek the Kingdom of God first in life, and every need will be met (Matthew 6:33). Living by the wisdom of God brings peace to every day.
Third, it will enable you to sleep soundly at night. You read that right – living by God’s wisdom day by day will help you sleep better night by night. Solomon says, “…you will lie down, and your sleep will be sweet” (Proverbs 3:24). It is generally worry that keeps people up at night. We can lay our body down but cannot put our thoughts to rest. The wisdom of the Word says that God is in control of it all. Our faith in God’s love, power and sovereignty limits worry and enables sleep.
Fourth, it will give you peace in the midst of trouble. The text says, “Do not be afraid of sudden terror, nor of trouble from the wicked when it comes; For the Lord will be your confidence…” (Proverbs 3:25). Living by God’s wisdom does not eliminate trouble in life, but it allows peace of mind when trouble comes. Peace is not the product of money, military or might. Peace comes from confidence in God.
Resolve today to live the rest of life guided by the wisdom of God as found in His Word.