Wisdom from above

"The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight;  for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair;"  Proverbs 1:1-3

Anyone that has even limited knowledge of Bible topics, knows when you want to discuss wisdom, you will have references from the book of Proverbs.  Solomon must have been a smart man because his words and phrases were considered beneficial for those attaining wisdom. 

What do you think of this wisdom? Does it mean you should study a particular topic such as mathematics,  to the point you become an expert so you can become known as one who is wise? My picture of those which the Bible considers wise, included some elderly gentleman with lots of life experiences, sitting on some hillside in a biblical country, waiting for people to come to him and ask questions about the meaning of life. 

Perhaps the better picture of the wisdom which the Bible encourages us to have is not dependent on our smartness, but rather has its birth in an attitude.  It's an attitude of fear and respect of the Lord, not from the standpoint of being afraid of God, but awed at the opportunity of knowing his presence.  Solomon also says in Proverbs 9:10 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."

Back to the opening verse above, we see the importance of godly wisdom by its mention at the head of the list. It is vital we understand this, because of the things we are to grasp in following some other things in Solomon's advice.  These proverbs of Solomon are given so that we can attain wisdom. The he adds another benefit we can receive and that is attaining discipline. Often we consider discipline in the context of a parent spouting off rules and regulations to misbehaving children and expecting them to be followed, "because I said so."  While discipline does include correction of wrongdoing, in this case the implication continues onward to proper instruction. 

The verse continues to include understanding words of insight.  Another translation uses, instead of the word insight, the word prudence. Rather than giving us a picture here of a shrewdness in our dealings, Solomon would have us to know the full meaning that our wisdom and discipline will help us be wise in making decisions, and above all we will always seek what is "right and just and fair." 

Do you see in just these three verses, the beginning of some good advice for the person who is wanting to be a seeker of God? These are the essential things we need to develop if we are to grow in the Lord.  Now see some additional information that is valuable in your day to day walk, by turning to Proverbs 2: 7-22.  Here you will see some everyday situations from your own life and Solomon's wisdom and insight in dealing with them.  Take them to heart. Make them a part of your life.  God bless your study. 

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