Wisdom

Wisdom

“For those who find me find life and receive favor from the Lord.” Proverbs 8:35

In my day-to-day activities I find that I have many brief conversations based on the basic transactions normal to life: things like ordering lunch, checking out at the grocery store, making an appointment, or renting a car. In an attempt to make these transactions a little less impersonal and to encourage the person I’m talking with I’ll often ask them how their day is going or say, “God bless you” before I leave. Sometimes I’ll ask if there’s anything I can pray for them.

I did this several years ago when picking up a rental car. Without hesitation, the man I was talking with said, “Yes, wisdom, pray for me to have wisdom.”

I smiled and said, “Absolutely!” After all, the Bible admonishes us to pray for wisdom. James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” That’s a promise from God and He says we should ask for it believing that He will provide it.

Reread the verse above. It’s also talking about wisdom. In fact, its wisdom talking; its wisdom personified. All of Proverbs 8 is wisdom calling out and wisdom says, “The Lord brought me forth as the first of his works, before his deeds of old; I was formed long ages ago, at the very beginning, when the world came to be.” (verses 22-23)

Created as the first of God’s works, wisdom counsels us as follows: “Now then, my children, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways. Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not disregard it. Blessed are those who listen to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For those who find me find life and receive favor from the Lord.” (verses 32-35)

As you face the challenges of life seek wisdom and know with confidence from the word of God that He will provide it.

Are you praying for wisdom? Are you heeding its call?