For whoever finds [wisdom] finds life
Proverbs 8:35 (ESV)
and obtains favor from the LORD,
Wisdom promises two things that we highly value: life and God’s favor. What is wisdom? Proverbs describes wisdom in many ways: it dwells with prudence, knowledge and discretion; it hates pride, arrogance and perverted speech; it walks in the way of righteousness and justice; it begins with the fear of Yahweh; and, her ways are peaceful and pleasant.
James also describes wisdom: “But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere” (James 3:17, ESV). Wisdom leads us into good conduct: “Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom” (James 3:13, ESV).
We may get the impression from some that God wants to speak specific guidance to us for all the important things we do. But Scripture teaches that we should also exercise wisdom; that we can possess wisdom and grow in it so that we can make wise decisions and do righteous deeds. We do not have to get an impression from God about everything; he also wants us to grow up to be wise and virtuous so that we can make godly decisions from our hearts. This wisdom gives us life and favor from God.
What significant decision are you facing right now? Have you had an impression from God about it? Based on the wisdom you have accumulated in your life, and as you walk in the Spirit, what decision do you think is wise?
