Proverbs 3:21-26
The call to wisdom and the mandate of its pursuit is beautifully and highly prioritized throughout the whole of Proverbs. Solomon’s intentional language surrounding wisdom and its necessity within the lives of believers is something one can quickly discover. Wisdom is personified, emphasized and consistently advocated for. Why?
Because wisdom has promise.
Blessing, understanding, confidence, security, peace. Wisdom houses these within her. And they are the harvest we reap as we pursue.
“My son, do not lose sight of these – keep sound wisdom and discretion, and they will be life for your soul and adornment for your neck.”
I love how the amplified version highlights this verse: “…and they will be life to your inner self and a gracious ornament to your neck (your outer self).” Wisdom is nourishment to our spirit and discernment is a trustworthy guide, and the fruit produced by both is pleasing in the natural. A sweet aroma to those around us. Flowing from the inside out. Setting us apart in life and godliness.
“Then you will walk in your way securely and confident in trust, and your foot will not stumble.”
Jesus’ parting gift to humanity was his spirit, in fullness, to dwell within us. To seal the redeemed relationship between God and man. As we seek wisdom, we deepen trust -trust in the Holy Spirit to counsel in the ways of wisdom and reveal the intimacies of God’s heart. Further along in Proverbs, Solomon says, “it is God’s privilege to conceal things and the king’s privilege to discover them.” To seek wisdom is to discover the mysteries of God and to partake in relationship with the Lord, and what is given to us as we journey is security, confidence in trust, and the safety that accompanies knowing that we’re loved.
“If you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Do not be afraid of sudden terror or of the ruin of the wicked when it comes, for the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught.”
Wisdom gives understanding. As we continue to grasp the knowledge of God, the truth that we’re wholly loved deepens within our hearts. Love leaves no room for fear; perfect love casts out fear. Wisdom’s promise enables us to walk securely in peace, confidently in love and, with an expectancy of grace to guard us and journey alongside us.
Solomon gives generous space within Proverbs to instruct us in the ways of wisdom. It’s intentional and it’s necessary, for the pursuit of wisdom is the pursuit of the Lord. It is the consistent engagement in relationship with the Spirit, and out of intimacy, wisdom develops and deepens.
As you pursue, you’ll reap a harvest. Wisdom’s promise.
Photography: @sheasalz