Proverbs 4, 6

“The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom.  Though it cost all you have, get understanding” (Proverbs 4:7). 

The book of Proverbs is a great book written by Solomon son of David.  It is said that he was the wisest man that has ever lived.  Even though he is super wise, he still had his fair share of mistakes; and much of this book is a compilation of wisdom that he learned from those mistakes. 

Solomon urges his sons to heed his words and pursue wisdom at all costs.  He instructs them to embrace wisdom and to guard it with their lives. 

Gaining wisdom seems so easy at times.  Like Solomon, I have learned from my mistakes.  But, how often have I chosen to ignore what I have learned.  Instead of embracing the wisdom I have gained and cherishing it, I find myself casually casting it aside because I think that maybe things will be different this time, or perhaps I can dodge the consequence. 

If only I had heeded that wisdom that was gained.  If only I had embraced that understanding. 

In the end, Solomon did not fully heed the wisdom God had given him, and Solomon’s heart went astray from the things of God. I am reminded how many times I believed I could “coast” through life because of the things I knew about God and from reading the wise words of Solomon.

 

How incredible would it be if we both applied the wisdom of these chapters, as well as lived our lives fully surrendered to Him?  How different would our lives look today if we lived fully dependent on God with a more full knowledge of things He wants us to grow in?

Though it will cost us all we have, gain wisdom. Gain understanding.  So that we might grow today and abide fully in Him.