Proverbs 8:1-9 Can’t you hear the voice of Wisdom?
1–3 Can’t you hear the voice of Wisdom? [Jesus personified]
From the top of the mountains of influence
she speaks into the gateways of the glorious city. [the house of God]
At the place where pathways merge,
at the entrance of every portal,
there she stands, ready to impart understanding,
shouting aloud to all who enter,
preaching her sermon to those who will listen. [a tender heart]
4
“I’m calling to you, sons of Adam,
yes, and to you daughters as well.
5
Listen to me and you will be prudent and wise.
For even the foolish and feeble can receive an understanding heart
that will change their inner being.
6
The meaning of my words will release within you revelation
for you to reign in life.
My lyrics will empower you to live by what is right.
7
For everything I say is unquestionably true,
and I refuse to endure the lies of lawlessness—
my words will never lead you astray.
8
All the declarations of my mouth can be trusted;
they contain no twisted logic or perversion of the truth.
9
All my words are clear and straightforward to everyone
who possesses spiritual understanding.
If you have an open mind, you will receive revelation-knowledge.
In our Old Testament passage today, Wisdom is personified as a woman who guides God’s children into success and fruitfulness. I love how King Solomon paints the picture of humanity’s great need for God’s Wisdom at every turn. Wisdom is always available for anyone who will listen.
According to the Old Testament Psalter, Wisdom and foolishness are the two paths of life placed before every person. Because of sin, without effort we naturally gravitate toward foolish living; we live by how we feel and what we desire. However, in Proverbs, we are taught how to live godly lives through the repetition of wise thoughts and righteous actions. And, let’s not forget this essential point, “Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline” (Prov. 1:7). When we choose God’s way of living, he imparts to us wisdom. Because everything we have in life—every blessing—comes from God, we need to seek him and how we can use those blessings wisely. One day God will evaluate how we have lived, so let’s decisively live in the Wisdom of God found in Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 1:30). He alone can be trusted to lead us into righteousness.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for granting me wisdom as I seek your will. Cause me to walk in truth and understanding. In Jesus’ name. Amen.