God’s Wisdom

Proverbs 3:13-14, 35 (ESV)

Blessed is the one who finds wisdom,
    and the one who gets understanding,
for the gain from her is better than gain from silver
    and her profit better than gold.

The wise will inherit honor,
    but fools get disgrace.


Reflection
 
The word “wise” is typically used as a compliment and often brings to mind an aged individual with significant life experience. While true that wisdom can be gained by learning from past mistakes and experiences, the greatest wisdom comes from God.

God offers wisdom to those who honor and follow Him. When we abide by His callings, we are better able to see His plan and understand it. God’s wisdom can be shared with others and helps to further strengthen our relationship with Him as we utilize this wisdom to follow the righteous path.

Pastor Matthew asserted in a recent teaching that God curses disobedience. Disobedience can be equated to foolishness in this context, which I have experienced firsthand. This past summer, I had some unexpected expenses and went a couple of months without tithing, despite having a commitment to tithe consistently, knowing it was His plan for my life. At the end of August, not only did I experience my first car accident, but I totaled my vehicle. After the initial shock and anxiety of the situation, I knew I had gone against my commitment, thinking I could control my finances better, even though I know and have experienced blessings and wisdom from God specifically through tithing. As a result of my disobedience and demand for control, I was going to have a car payment for the first time in five years. Do you know what else happened at the end of September? Resumption of student loan payments. So here I was, facing hundreds of dollars in unexpected payments, and feeling the consequences for my foolishness.
 
However, I didn’t let this lead me further down the wrong path. I immediately turned to God, trusting that He would offer grace and use it as a teachable faith moment. I continued to tithe despite two unexpected monthly payments, and He has been faithful and has continued to bless me in this season.

“Fools” in verse 35 refers to those who refuse to walk with God, whether due to stubbornness, disbelief, arrogance, or any other barrier. They will not inherit the honor and wisdom bestowed upon those who act in accordance with God. Those who do walk with Him will continue to experience His blessings and wisdom, just as I have continued to receive when I remain steadfast to Him.


Action Steps
 
Reflect on your obedience of late. Which do you align with more, the wise or the fool? If fool, what can you do differently to seek the wisdom of God? If wise, what are you doing well? How can you share your wisdom with others?
 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I pray I walk in the path of Your righteousness. I pray that I will obey Your callings without hesitation and that You share Your understanding and wisdom with me and that I am receptive to it. Thank You for giving me grace as a I grow in You. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.