In Proverbs 8, wisdom is
personified as a beautiful lady. And in the first 11 verses, she invites us to pursue
her. Whether we are young or old, simple or sensible, we all need her. When we
possess wisdom, we will be richly endowed in life. So here in the next ten
verses from 12-21, she makes some claims about herself. Wisdom and prudence
dwell together, giving the idea that when one has wisdom, that person has the
capacity to know how to handle life practically and pragmatically. Whosoever
has wisdom will be sensible, and discreet.
In verse 13, we are given the first
fundamental proposition of wisdom, stated in a negative formulation. It states
that the fear of the Lord hates three things: evil, pride and arrogance. God detests
the proud, the haughty, and those who devise evil. And also those who speak perversely.
In verses 14-16, the teacher shows
the capacity of wisdom. She possesses counsel that can guide us to live
uprightly. This is essential to our well-being. It can guide the confused to
understand the perplexing issues of life. She also gives understanding to
rulers and help them to rule justly.
In verses 16-18, wisdom declares
her love for all who love and pursue her. She is not illusive. The one who seeks
after her diligently will find her and be endowed with the favor of God. Besides,
the pursuer will also be bestowed with riches and honor, and know how to handle
his enduring riches righteously.
Like a productive tree that yields its fruit,
wisdom yields fruit that is like pure unadulterated gold, free from all alloy. Its fruit is also likened to the best grade of silver. One who finds wisdom will stay on
the path of righteousness and find the true riches of life. In all our quest in life, make pursuing wisdom
a major part of our agenda. Having wisdom is better than perishable gold or silver.
When we find her we will truly live life uprightly. Let’s go after her with all
diligence.
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