God is Wise

Go ahead; you can use your favorite search engine to answer the following questions; What plants are mentioned in Isaiah 44:4? What is the circumference of the Earth at the equator? Which country has the larger population: Sweden or The Netherlands?

Today we have access to almost any information we want—and quickly—but true wisdom is found in God’s Word, not on the internet or other sources. Bible students have designated the Book of Proverbs as wisdom literature. The words “wisdom,” “wise,” or some variation appear more than 100 times in the book, clearly justifying the designation. Chapters 2 and 3 are part of a more extensive section in which Solomon undertakes his parental responsibility to instruct his son (see 2:1; 3:1) in wisdom and the ways of the Lord. He specifically emphasized that true wisdom comes only from the Lord.

Let’s think about how knowledge and wisdom are different. Knowledge is factual information. Wisdom is the application of God’s divine truth. He promises us wisdom, but how do we get that wisdom? First, by having the right attitude—a teachable heart (Vv. 1-2). And second, by taking the right actions—actively pursuing wisdom rather than passively hoping for it (Vv. 3-4). Finally, wisdom is about knowing God intimately.

Finish this sentence for me “Wise people trust in the Lord more than . . .” How would you complete this statement as it refers to how you pursue God’s wisdom for your own life? On a scale of 1 to 10, how teachable is your heart? How actively are you pursuing God’s wisdom?

In Proverbs 2:1-6, rather than just learning about wisdom, Solomon encouraged his student first to accept (rather than despise or reject) and internalize wisdom, then to call out to and passionately seek it. The result is a reverent relationship with God, which is a prerequisite of true wisdom. Where in our culture do people look for wisdom? Where do you typically turn when you need wisdom or advice? Why?

With Proverbs 3:5-7 in mind and committed to memory, how do you navigate the tension between trusting God’s wisdom and trusting your own competence? Solomon encourages readers to focus on God and invite His presence into all daily activities and decisions. God is the One who can put us on the path of wisdom, and He will make righteousness attainable. But, on the other hand, trusting anyone other than the Lord results in disaster. Wisdom is sound, but only if it is from the Lord.

Oh yea, by the way the answers to the above questions are; What plants are mentioned in Isaiah 44:4? (Answer: grass and poplars) What is the circumference of the Earth at the equator? (Answer: 24,901.55 miles) Which country has the larger population: Sweden or The Netherlands? (Answer: The Netherlands)