Characteristics of Wisdom That Can Become Ours
September 15, 2020
Commentary
We find here the characteristics of wisdom that can become ours (vv. 12-21). It enables a person to have good old fashioned common sense and be able to give wise counsel. The author states that wisdom [from God], makes prudence his dwelling place (v. 12). Prudence is right knowledge for special times which if understood, can do much to better a man’s position in human affairs.
It gives men good heads. (v.12)It gives men good hearts. (v. 13)It has a great influence in public affairs. (v. 14)It makes people happy who embrace it. (vv. 15-21)If you respect the Lord, you will hate evil, pride, arrogance and deceitful lies (v. 13). This person is strong and offers sensible advice and sound judgment (v. 14). It is through Him that kings and rulers make laws that are fair (v. 15). Every honest leader rules with His help (v. 16).
The benefits of seeking prudence are many. He says that He loves everyone who loves Him and can be found by those who honestly search for Him (v. 17). Those who are wise receive riches, honor and enduring wealth (v. 18). These riches are genuine and not artificial substitutes purchased with silver or gold (v. 19). “Prosperity” is literally righteous living which is a product of one’s walk (v. 20). He says that He will always do what is right, and give great riches to everyone who loves Him. However, prudence is only available to those who love Him and seek Him (v. 21).
Application
It is my desire to make prudence my dwelling place. That is why I want to love and seek Him.
Proverbs 8:12– 21 (NET)
12 “I, wisdom, have dwelt with prudence, and I find knowledge and discretion.
13 The fear of the Lord is to hate evil; I hate arrogant pride and the evil way and perverse utterances.
14 Counsel and sound wisdom belong to me; I possess understanding and might.
15 By me kings reign, and by me potentates decree righteousness;
16 by me princes rule, as well as nobles and all righteous judges.
17 I will love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently will find me.
18 Riches and honor are with me, long-lasting wealth and righteousness.
19 My fruit is better than the purest gold, and my harvest is better than choice silver.
20 I walk in the path of righteousness, in the pathway of justice,
21 that I may cause those who love me to inherit wealth, and that I may fill their treasuries.
Illustration: Duke Ching Went Out Hunting One Day
Duke Ching went out hunting one day and saw a tiger on the mountain. Going down from the mountain to a lake he caught sight of a snake. Upon returning home, he went to Yen-Tzu and related what he saw. He asked: “Is that considered a bad omen?” Yen Tzu replied: “There are only three things in the category of bad omens for a country, and that is not included. The first is to have wise men and not to know them. The second is to know them but not to use them. And third is to use them but not to confide in them. (Encyclopedia of Illustrations #14554).