Sunday, February 7, 1999 This Week's Lesson:
In this week's lesson, which came from Proverbs 3:13-24, we once again learned about the importance of finding godly wisdom and of getting understanding. Throughout the Book of Proverbs, Solomon has spoken much about the importance of having these traits, and in this passage, he has continued to present the same teaching. He called the person happy who finds wisdom and understanding. He described these values as precious, calling them more valuable than rare metals. According to him, wisdom has greater value than silver and fine gold. It is more precious than rubies, and nothing compares in value to having godly wisdom. One might ask why wisdom and understanding have such great value. The answer is that they bring blessings to the individual. Through wisdom and understanding, a person lengthens his or her life. Through wisdom and understanding, a person obtains riches and honor, though these may or may not be material wealth and earthly honor. Wisdom and understanding bring pleasantness. They provide a measure of peace, and in general, people who find godly wisdom also find happiness.
Besides having great value and bringing blessings, wisdom and understanding are also useful and beneficial. According to Proverbs 3:19-24, the Lord through wisdom founded the earth. By understanding, He established the heavens. By knowledge, He established the depths and the clouds. In speaking about wisdom, Solomon again used the expression, "My son," to show his personal focus. He felt close to his audience, and he wanted to express intimacy rather than religiosity. Solomon wrote that wisdom would be life and grace to each of us, promising that we would walk safely. He said that our foot would not stumble, that we would not be afraid, and that our sleep would not be hampered or disturbed. These promises are much more precious and valuable than what the world has to offer. The world advocates living for today and not worrying about tomorrow. Have a ball now while you can and do not concern yourself with the consequences of a wayward lifestyle. However, those who live by such fallacious teachings often live to regret it. In Luke 15, the Prodigal Son was the host of the party until his money ran out. Then, when he was broke, he was also all alone. Those who obtain godly wisdom and understanding usually do not end up in such a pitiful state. Solomon told us to pursue wisdom and understanding and to live by the same. Then, we will live and enjoy life as God wants.
The Book of Proverbs is God's roadmap to wisdom and understanding. By regularly studying this book, a person can acquire godly wisdom. The person who studies Proverbs will develop understanding and discretion. Then, that person will be able to avoid many of the pitfalls of life. As you go through the coming week, look for opportunities to read and study this valuable book. Reading a chapter in Proverbs each day will have a lasting and beneficial effect on your whole life.
Tom of Spotswood"He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life." (I John 5:12)
"And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart." (Jeremiah 29:13)
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