Wisdom of God

Proverbs 8:1-11

Many people today have no idea how to live. They make a mess of their marriages and other relationships. Often, they wreck their own lives and the lives of others. We all need wisdom in order to live well.

Where is wisdom to be found? The New Testament answer is that, ultimately, it is found in Jesus Christ. St Paul writes, ‘Christ… the wisdom of God’ (1 Corinthians 1:24). The ‘wisdom of God’ is one of Jesus’ titles.

Wisdom in the book of Proverbs is personified and female (‘Lady Wisdom’; ‘Madam Insight’, Proverbs 8:1, MSG). She is contrasted with an adulterous woman who lurks at street corners when darkness falls and who speaks in secretive, seductive whispers (7:6ff). Wisdom openly competes against her ‘right in the city square where the traffic is thickest’ (8:2, MSG) and offers herself as a counter attraction – a pure bride rather than a fatal seductress.

This shows us that wisdom is not just about knowledge, but that to be wise is to live well. The first step in living well is to set the right goals and ambitions. Seek wisdom, rather than the sensual pleasures represented by the adulteress.

Wisdom is highly desirable. It, or rather she, is better than silver, gold or jewels: ‘Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her’ (vv.10–11).

If you want true wisdom, it starts with a relationship with Jesus Christ. This is far more valuable than anything the world can offer.

That relationship will have an effect on the way you live out your life. An example of this wisdom is excellence in your speech (v.6–9) – honest, truthful communication with words that are righteous and true (compare and contrast the words spoken in Numbers 20:3–5, which reveal a lack of trust in God).