The Message paraphrases Solomon’s words about wisdom like this: ‘Sell everything and buy Wisdom! Forage for Understanding! Don’t forget one word! Don’t deviate an inch! Never walk away from Wisdom – she guards your life; love her – she keeps her eye on you. Above all and before all, do this: Get Wisdom! Write this at the top of your list: Get Understanding! Throw your arms around her – believe me, you won’t regret it’ (Proverbs 4:5-8 MSG). There are lots of ways to gain wisdom: 1) Gathering from the knowledge shared by others. ‘Pride only leads to arguments, but those who take advice are wise’ (Proverbs 13:10 NCV). 2) Thinking outside the box. Statements like, ‘This is the way we’ve always done things,’ aren’t particularly helpful; it’s a good idea to regularly check if there’s a better way. 3) Writing down and reflecting on what you’ve learned recently through your experiences. 4) Not rushing to finish a task too quickly. Growth is always a work in progress. Creativity is untidy and can be unnerving. The ability to stay focused and faith filled in the midst of change is a sign of growth and maturity. But the ultimate source of wisdom is God’s Word! ‘For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding’ (Proverbs 2:6 NKJV). ‘The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy’ (James 3:17 NKJV). ‘I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you’ (Psalm 32:8 NKJV). Refuse to live an unexamined life. Refuse to live an uncommitted life. Refuse to live an unguided life. Today, ask God for wisdom.
