May 27, 2022 - Proverbs 8-9

Chapters 8 & 9 of Proverbs wrap up the section on Wisdom before begin “The Proverbs of Solomon.” Wisdom says to us, “Take my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is better than jewels, and all that you may desire cannot compare with her” (8:10-11). Why is wisdom so precious? It is precious because it directs us to God. Jeremiah teaches, “Let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the Lord” (Jeremiah 9:24).

Jesus instructs us, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal” (Matthew 6:19-20). This is wisdom: to seek to know God and to lay up treasures in heaven. But how do we get such wisdom that would inform our lives thusly? Here, Wisdom declares, “I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me” (8:17). James speaks clearly, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him” (James 1:5). Let us seek diligently and ask for wisdom, today, that we might know God and have our priorities correct.

My heart has been too long ensnared,

In folly’s hurtful ways;

Oh, may I be at length prepared,

To hear what wisdom says!

‘Tis Jesus from the mercy-seat,

Invites me to his rest;

He calls poor sinners to his feet,

To make them truly blest.

Approach, my soul, to wisdom's gates,

Approach without delay:

No one who watches there and waits,

Shall e’er be turned away. –Popular Music Collection, 1847