“Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her.” Proverbs 8:10-11

Do you know who is speaking in the verse above?  Who is the one who is saying, “Choose my instruction?” It is wisdom herself. We know that by the context of the passage. Look at Proverbs 8:1, “Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice?” And verse four: “To you, O men, I call out; I raise my voice to all mankind.”

This personification of wisdom continues throughout the chapter.  Here are some excerpts:

“Counsel and sound judgment are mine; I have understanding and power.” (Vs. 8).

“The Lord brought me forth as the first of his works, before his deeds of old; I was appointed from eternity, from the beginning, before the world began. …I was there when he set the heavens in place, when he marked out the horizon on the face of the deep…and when he marked out the foundations of the earth.” (Vv. 22-23,27,29b).

Wisdom calls out and the Bible tells us to make getting it a priority. “Get wisdom, get understanding…Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” (Proverbs 4:5a, 7).

And it tells us where to start. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:10).

Do you lack wisdom? The Bible says to ask God for it. “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).

It’s one of those things money can’t buy, but God gives it freely to those who pursue it. Pursue wisdom, for it will guide you and protect you.

Have you made getting wisdom a priority in your life?