Monday, February 9, 2015

Foundations: Proverbs - Day 1 - Wisdom & Its Value

READ: Proverbs Chapter 8
In the book of Proverbs wisdom is often “personified”, or given the qualities of a living
being. As verse 1 of chapter 8 declares, “does not wisdom call out?”. Why is wisdom calling
out? It’s because this life of wisdom is one that is SO desirable that it’s trying to get our
attention! Think of how loud a fire alarm is, in an attempt to alert us to something very
important. Wisdom is also trying to alert us, letting us know that we need to yield to it.
Wisdom is priceless, more precious than rubies (8:11). Throughout the book of Proverbs,
this is emphasized, the limitless value of wisdom. It’s also what leaders are to rule by as
they govern the earth (8:15-16). How can a person handle all the responsibilities that
come with leadership without wisdom? Finally, in a sense, the world was created with the
presence of wisdom – that’s how important wisdom is! Being a “wise” person then is a
vital goal! As we continue our journey through Proverbs we’ll discover much more about
“wisdom” and a wise life. May our hearts be ready to gain prudence and understanding
(8:5) brothers and sisters, such words being close cousins of wisdom.

JOURNALING AND PRAYER
1. Spend some time in prayer and reflection. Ask God – are you a wise person? Do you
hunger for wisdom and growth in your life? What would others say? Spend some time
in both confession for any lack of hunger AND praise for where you’ve grown.
2. Make a commitment to the Lord, to seek to submit to the wisdom that you’ll find in
the book of Proverbs. Ask Him to give you a word, thought or picture as a promise for
what He’ll do in your life as you commit to growing in wisdom.