Proverbs 4:5-9, Wisdom – The Pearl of Pearls!
February 11, Proverbs 4:5-9
Matt. 13:45-46; Jas. 3:13-17 “But seek ye the kingdom of God and his righteousness” (Mt. 6:33).
Wisdom – The Pearl of Pearls!
We need to be clear in our minds as to the meaning of Wisdom as over against knowledge, and why Solomon calls it the key or principle thing.
- Its Potency: Wisdom and knowledge are, of course, related in certain ways. Wisdom is that rare ability to take in knowledge and then impart it. It is the power to turn theory into practice. It is a gift that does things, makes knowledge work, gives it flesh and blood (e.g. Bezalel, Ex. 31). The central intent of wisdom, however, is godly living! It is not merely knowledge about God, but bringing all of life under God’s control. Wisdom obeys because God is Lord. Here again we confront the threefold nature of God. The Father is the source of wisdom. The Son has all the treasures of wisdom. The Holy Spirit reveals all needed wisdom by the Word. “Wisdom and truth, like knowledge, are given by God’s grace and involve obedience and intimate personal involvement between Creator and creature” (John Frame). This is what gives Wisdom its potency.
- Its Pertinacity: It comes only to those determined to obtain it (Mt. 13:44-46). It demands that you sell all you have to possess it, like the treasure or the pearl of great price. Is that why there is a dearth of true wisdom? Some Charismatics claim to have a miracle-secret to instant wisdom, but what saith the Scripture? This Wisdom comes only to those who pay the price.
a. It must be sought Purposefully. Get wisdom; get understanding (v.5). Behold, how this father pleads with his children to secure Wisdom and walk in its ways.
b. It must be sought Perseveringly. Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee (v.6). To forsake God’s Wisdom has eternal consequences.
c. It must be sought Passionately. Love her. It can only be won by genuine ardour.
- It’s Primacy: Wisdom is the principle thing, therefore, you must exalt her (v.8). She is more precious than any earthly gems. She can be subordinated to nothing. These verses (vs.5-9) paint a picture of doing whatever is necessary to acquire Wisdom. It is not about brains or opportunity, but about decision! Do you really want it? Many parents, like Augustine’s unbelieving father, cry, “Get wealth, worldly honour or wisdom,” and in that order. Here the godly parent pleads, whatever else you get, remember, Wisdom is the principle thing; therefore get wisdom, and with all thy getting get understanding. At any cost get wisdom first! She is the one thing needful (vs.7-8). Are you, dear parents, eager to see this as the first priority of your children? Never has it been more evident that this is what stands in the place of primacy above all the world’s false glitter. “Unless there is that within man which is above him, he will yield to that which is about him.”
Thought: “The greatest wisdom on earth is holiness” (Wm. S. Plumer).
Prayer: Lord, Thou givest wisdom to all who ask for it. I ask for it now.