We live in an age of information overload. That's an understatement. It is impossible to take in all the knowledge available today, especially in digital media.
But do we really need to know everything? How much of what we hear is redundant and useless information? What makes any knowledge valuable?
Although knowledge and information are abundant, understanding, insight, discernment, discretion and integrity seem to be in short supply. This imbalance will only change one life at a time, one day at a time, and with the choices we make.
Scripture
“I, Wisdom, live with insight, and I acquire knowledge and foresight. To fear the Lord is to hate evil. I hate pride, arrogance, evil behavior, and twisted speech. [vss 12-13]
Advice and priceless wisdom are mine. I, Understanding, have strength. Through me kings reign, and rulers decree fair laws. Through me princes rule, so do nobles and all fair judges. [vss 14-16]
I love those who love me. Those eagerly looking for me will find me. I have riches and honor, lasting wealth and righteousness. What I produce is better than gold, pure gold. What I yield is better than fine silver. [vss 17-19]
I walk in the way of righteousness, on the paths of justice, to give an inheritance to those who love me and to fill their treasuries. [vss 20-21]
(Proverbs 8:12-21 GW) [Context– Proverbs 8]
Key phrase
I love those who love me.
Digging Deeper...
- What are three things wisdom is linked with? What else is wisdom associated with and what things does wisdom hate?
- What other things does wisdom "have"? How is wisdom a benefit to people in general through those who govern them?
- Who does wisdom "love"? What do you think this means? What are the benefits and value of having wisdom?
- What is the "path" or "way" of wisdom? How is wisdom personified in a practical way? What is the way a person would gain this kind of wisdom?
Make it personal...
What are ways you can acquire godly, valuable wisdom?
Do you have a respect and awe for God? If you do, how does it benefit you in your daily life?
Do you have a love for godly wisdom, or are you easily distracted with information and knowledge of questionable value? [hint– how valuable is the knowledge gained through social media?]
How do you consistently choose to live by godly wisdom and counsel?
Reflection...
In the book of Proverbs, wisdom is personified as a woman in contrast to someone like an adulteress, who lacks discretion. But not all foolishness or lack of discretion involves sexual immorality. Sadly, wisdom is too often lacking in the most basic, mundane parts of life that matter.
They matter because patterns and habits are established through the choices we make and our decisions, whether by intent or default (lack of intent). When we embrace wisdom on a daily basis, even in the simplest ways, it establishes a path of wise living.
The question we need to ask ourselves on a daily basis is—Where do I gain wisdom? What is the source of my insight and understanding? This is where a healthy fear of God comes in, that is—respect, awe, and wonder of God. It helps give us perspective when the world around us is skewed by darkness, cynicism, and hopelessness.