I have begun an earnest search for wisdom and knowledge. I have always possessed a strong desire to discover, to ask why and to understand but lately I feel a sense of increased urgency. Something, no, some One has built a fire inside my heart that is leading me in directions I never thought possible.
I believe that it is no accident that as I have prioritized my relationship with God, my search for wisdom and knowledge has intensified. Indeed, the Bible tells us that God is the author of wisdom and has much to say on the subject of wisdom itself:
“Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” (Proverbs 4:5-6) Solomon, the writer of Proverbs and one of the wisest men who ever lived, declared the value of wisdom and understanding in no uncertain terms. Here, Solomon describes wisdom as protector and guardian and asserts that no price is too high to pay its acquisition.
“Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.” (Proverbs 13:10) I take satisfaction in how the Bible confirms that wisdom and pride are opposites. Wisdom and humility, however, go hand in hand and work well together.
“To the man who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness, but to the sinner he gives the task of gathering and storing up wealth to hand it over to the one who pleases God.” (Ecclesiastes 2:26) The Bible has some strong words on the matter of wisdom and in this case wisdom (along with knowledge and happiness) is given to him who pleases God. Any search for wisdom must begin with the author of wisdom and He must be glorified by my search or I search in vain.
“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5) Our Father loves us so much that he always desires to give us good things. God wants for us to be wise and He is waiting for us to ask! I now begin each day by asking Him to grant me wisdom and understanding as I am able to receive it.
“But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” (James 3:17) Earlier in his letter, James tells us that God grants wisdom to those who ask. Here he describes the kind of wisdom that God gives. I can’t speak for you, but I want more of all of these attributes in my life.
“My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (Colossians 2:2-3) Where is wisdom found? Who provides the full riches of complete understanding? Wisdom is found in God through His Son who is the Christ.
That makes the search for true wisdom the search for God Himself, the search for true knowledge the search for His ways and the search for true understanding the search for His love and mercy.
As I learn to be a blogger, as I learn to be a faithful steward, as I learn to be a good husband, and as I learn to be all that I am meant to be I must hold fast to Him. Let us commit, together, to a renewed zeal and a renewed sense of purpose for discovering “all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” that are found in Christ, our Savior and Lord.