Characteristics of Wisdom You Can Use
November 13, 2021
Commentary
We find here the characteristics of wisdom that can become ours (vv. 12–21). This wisdom enables a person to have practical, everyday common sense and the ability to give wise counsel. The writer explains that wisdom from God makes prudence its dwelling place (v. 12). Prudence is the right kind of knowledge for the right moment, and when it is understood and practiced, it can greatly improve a person’s life and relationships with others. It helps us slow down, think clearly, and respond more wisely than reacting in haste. We need wisdom every day.
Wisdom shapes both the mind and the heart. It gives people clear thinking and helps them make sound decisions (v. 12). It also forms good character, leading a person to fear the Lord and hate evil, pride, arrogance, and deceitful speech (v. 13). Wisdom has a strong influence in public life as well. It provides sound advice, strength, and good judgment (v. 14). Through God’s wisdom, kings rule wisely, and leaders establish what is just and fair (vv. 15–16). When wisdom guides leadership, communities experience peace, order, and trust.
The benefits of seeking prudence are many and lasting. God says, “I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me” (v. 17). Those who walk in wisdom receive riches and honor that endure (v. 18). These blessings are better than silver or gold because they are genuine and lasting (v. 19). Prosperity here means righteous living, which flows from walking daily in God’s ways (v. 20). Wisdom promises to act rightly and to bless those who love and seek Him faithfully (v. 21). This wisdom shapes daily choices, strengthens relationships, guides decisions, and helps believers live faithfully with clarity, patience, humility, and steady hope each passing day.
Application
Am I using wisdom in my choices? Do I pause and think before I speak or act? Am I allowing pride or impatience to guide me? What situation today needs clearer thinking, humility, and trust in God’s ways? Today, I choose to seek wisdom and understanding from God to guide my thoughts and decisions.
Proverbs 8:12–21 (NET)
12 “I, wisdom, have dwelt with prudence, and I find knowledge and discretion.
13 The fear of the Lord is to hate evil; I hate arrogant pride and the evil way and perverse utterances.
14 Counsel and sound wisdom belong to me; I possess understanding and might.
15 By me kings reign, and by me potentates decree righteousness;
16 by me princes rule, as well as nobles and all righteous judges.
17 I will love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently will find me.
18 Riches and honor are with me, long-lasting wealth and righteousness.
19 My fruit is better than the purest gold, and my harvest is better than choice silver.
20 I walk in the path of righteousness, in the pathway of justice,
21 that I may cause those who love me to inherit wealth, and that I may fill their treasuries.
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