Proverbs 9.10 teaches that reverence is the starting point for wisdom. Thus, that personal knowledge of God helps me to build a wisdom mindset.
Wisdom Defined
Reverence for God is the starting point for wisdom, according to Psalms 111.10 and Proverbs 9.10.
Also, reverence is the beginning of factual knowledge, Proverbs 1.7.
Wisdom isn’t solely a collection of wise sayings, parables, or specific facts.
Thus, it’s not simply what I know.
Instead, wisdom is grounded in a relationship with the eternal God. As such, that relationship changes my character. That is – who I am. But, only if I build a wisdom mindset.
Actually, Psalms 111.10 says “Reverence is the beginning of wisdom.” There, “beginning” is the same Hebrew word used in Genesis 1.1 for “beginning.”
As well, according to Proverbs 4.7, the most essential of all knowledge is awareness of the universal precepts: “Wisdom is the principal thing…” Once again, “principal” is that same Hebrew word used in Genesis 1.1.
In terms of reasoning from first principles, reverence for God is the absolute, the preeminent, the first, of all first principles!
Wisdom Components
Now, wisdom, as described in Proverbs, brings together factual knowledge plus experiential insights, as stated in Proverbs 2.6.
Essentially, wisdom combines a factual knowledge of the law with insights from experiences. Those insights are expressed in the precepts. And, often shared in the form of a proverb.
Most fundamentally, wisdom is my ability to combine factual knowledge and experiential insights, as given to me by God.
In addition, wisdom involves a set of mental models to effectively catalog those insights into a useable whole. For instance, sow-reap is a commonly-used mental model in the Proverbs.
Likewise, wisdom enables me to effectively apply these universal principles such as intentionality (sow) and accountability (reap). In fact, Proverbs 1.3 and Proverbs 2.9 list sound judgement as something I reap from absorbing wisdom.
Getting Wisdom
The beginning of wisdom is a right relationship with God, which is based on faith.
Therefore, I choose to enter the wisdom-gaining process by obedience. Also, by desiring to grow in wisdom, as expressed in Deuteronomy 4.6: “Keep and do (the commandments) for this is your wisdom and insight …”
Actually, just like Solomon did in Second Chronicles 1.10, I can ask for wisdom. Solomon asked for wisdom because he wanted to “judge” or effectively carryout his duties as king.
Thus, wisdom is a gift from God that’s different from native intelligence.
Unsurprisingly, Solomon received wisdom in several ways.
First, it was shared with him by his parents, Proverbs 4.1-5.
Then, he learned by observing nature, First Kings 4.33 and Proverbs 6.6-8.
And, he actively sought to build on the wisdom he had accumulated, Ecclesiastes 1.13 and 1.17.
Wisdom calls to me … get a discerning character. Proverbs 8.5 paraphrase
Intentional Sowing
Obviously, wisdom sources include God Himself through simply asking. For example, “Give me now wisdom …” Second Chronicles 1.10.
Others include wise counsel Proverbs 1.5, observation, and personal reflection.
Hence, I learn by listening, looking, doing, and asking.
Therefore, asking, observing, and reflecting strongly suggest that my personal growth must be intentional. As such, I choose to grow personally, spiritually, and professionally.
Give me the ability to listen with my heart so I can judge properly as well as be discerning … 1 Kings 3.9 paraphrase
Sovereign Choice
In addition, a critical aspect of personal growth is combining life experiences with insight regarding God’s sovereign choices.
For an example from the life of Joseph, see Genesis 45.7-8 “God sent me …” and Genesis 50.19-20 “God meant it as something good …”
Consequently, I should get into the habit of asking “What is God teaching me right now?”
Conversely, I shouldn’t immediately complain about “why” I’m going through this situation.
Reaping Growth
As it turns out, effectively applying the precepts produces several valuable outcomes, including discretion, deep thoughtfulness, and discernment. Read Proverbs 2.11, 7.5, and 8.5 for examples.
Furthermore, Psalms 111.10 says that absorbing and applying the precepts gives me a clear grasp of that which is most essential. So, wisdom is good for me!
Finally, wisdom drives me to be goal driven, Proverbs 4.25.
And, to have a strategy for reaching that goal, Proverbs 4.26.
Also, to focus as I pursue the goal, Proverbs 4.27.
So, I not only change who I am, but also know where I’m going!
Apply This Today!
I must build a wisdom mindset if I am to flourish.
As such, wisdom is defined as what I know, plus what I can do with what I know. Moreover, wisdom is based on a relationship with God.
One outcome from a wisdom mindset is the ability to apply sound judgement. However, that’s not about being smart. Instead, it’s about persistently applying the precepts of wisdom to my life!
Insight building comes as I reflect on life experiences. This implies that I’m undergoing consistent character change because, fact is, I’m not naturally wise and discerning!
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