According to Proverbs 8.10-11 nothing is more valuable than the teaching that comes from wisdom. In fact, there’s no material wealth that compares to the precepts of wisdom! Therefore, the precepts of wisdom are the most valuable teaching of all.
The Precept Explained:
My teaching, and the knowledge I impart, is of greater value than anything you could possibly desire! Proverbs 8.10-11 paraphrase
The Precept Applied:
The claim here in Proverbs 8.10-11 is certainly bold.
In essence, wisdom is saying that what she is teaching is more valuable than anything else desired by man!
Well, that’s fairly extreme! Even by the excessive claims Americans are used to. For example, from commercials, Web sites, and … politicians.
The Value of Wisdom
We’re used to hype and accustomed to extreme promises. But, this one is a repeat. Why? Because we read a similar statement of value in Proverbs 3.13-15.
Additionally, I’m told to seek wisdom like she was silver or hidden treasure (Proverbs 2.4). Also, the outcomes from absorbing wisdom are better than precious metals (Proverbs 8.19). Finally, wisdom and insight are better than gold or silver (Proverbs 16.16).
Ok, are you beginning to see a pattern here?
If wisdom is to be believed, then the precepts of wisdom are the most valuable teaching of all.
The Value of Material Wealth
But, how about material wealth? Where does that leave us?
In Ecclesiastes 2.7-11 Solomon discusses the great wealth he accumulated. That wealth included silver and gold.
He claimed to be the richest person in town (Ecclesiastes 2.9). Moreover, he said that whatever he wanted, he got (Ecclesiastes 2.10)!
Guess what? His conclusion in Ecclesiastes 2.11 was “it was all emptiness …” What’s more, in Ecclesiastes 2.17 he said he hated life! What’s worse, he hated all his hard work (Ecclesiastes 2.18).
Wow! Bet you weren’t expecting that!
So Who Is Right?
Why should I believe wisdom? Well, if Solomon’s life is a useful metric, wisdom was his ticket into significant wealth, fame, and power (see 1 Kings 4.29-34).
In fact, by his telling, he “gave his heart to know wisdom” (Ecclesiastes 1.17). Additionally, he claims to have “gotten more wisdom that anyone before him” (Ecclesiastes 1.16).
First Principles
Ultimately, I choose what’s of value to me. Now, note the impact of personal values.
First, my values determine how I spend my time. In fact, I choose what’s most essential for me. Thus, if it’s important to me I find time to do it.
Second, my time usage, the sowing, is where I’m intentional about personal and professional growth. Or, not intentional at all because I can also waste my time.
Third, coming out of that intentionality is life outcomes. Thus, I expect to see a return on my investment. That’s the reaping.
Values, then, are a First Principle. In other words, values are the basics for reasoning and action. Conversely, if my values are wrong they can become cognitive biases!
Similarly, an abundance mindset is a First Principle because it impacts how I view opportunities and challenges. See Proverbs 11.24-25.
Ultimately, Reverence is the most essential of all First Principles. See Proverbs 1.7 and Proverbs 9.10.
Leadership Insights
Proverbs 1.7
I suspect an abundance mindset is fairly common among successful leaders. Why? Because it seems reasonable that the ability to grow and adapt contributes to leadership success.
Next, I think it’s also reasonable to believe that many leaders are successful because of a strongly-held set of personal values. For example, they see the value of human compassion and justice. Also, they see the benefit of fair and honest dealings with others.
Finally, I believe the precepts found in Proverbs are presented from a faith-based perspective. Hence, the recurring theme of reverence.
Universal Precepts
That said, I also believe the precepts in Proverbs are universal. Thus, they can be applied by any leader who chooses to live a precept-driven, values-based life.
Conversely, I’m not discounting the eternal value of personal faith. I am, however, simply pointing out what I think is obvious about these precepts.
The precepts found in Proverbs, such as sow-reap and circle of competence, are universally understood by leaders of all faiths. Certainly, it seems, among Jews and Christians who have studied the Proverbs for generations.
Additionally, the precepts in Proverbs are understood by, and useful to, leaders who have not considered the eternal value of a life of faith in the one True God.
Ultimately, wisdom is the most valuable teaching of all.
Plug This In Today!
The universal precepts of Proverbs are a gateway into successful leadership practice.
The universal precepts must be combined with an intentional focus on growth and personal transformation as a life goal.
Without a goal, I’m left with a list of ancient observations that aren’t having any visible impact on my life!
I choose my values. Additionally, values drive my growth. I choose values as guided by wisdom.
Knowing and doing is the essence of wisdom.
I must combine knowing and doing in order to see any measurable growth in my personal and professional life.
Therefore, the precepts of wisdom are the most valuable teaching of all.
The Source of This Precept
Proverbs 8.10-11
8.10-11 Accept my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than pure gold. For wisdom is better than jewels, and nothing desirable can equal it. Christian Standard Bible
8.10-11 Take my instruction and not silver, and knowledge rather than choicest gold. For wisdom is better than jewels; and all desirable things cannot compare with her. New American Standard Bible
8.10-11 Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold. For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it. King James Version
Thanks for visiting. If you have any questions or comments, please contact me: larrydaleyoung@gmail.com
