Wisdom Offers Her Service to All
April 13, 2021
Commentary
In the previous chapter, we read how the adulterous woman went out into the streets to seduce a young man. Now we see a very different picture. Wisdom, like a virtuous woman, also stands in the streets. But instead of tempting people into sin, she calls them to truth and understanding. She openly invites everyone to receive her help and guidance.
First, we notice where wisdom calls. She stands in the high places of the city and at the gates where people gather (vv. 1–3). These were busy locations where many travelers, workers, and families passed each day. Wisdom does not hide in secret places or whisper in darkness. Instead, she speaks publicly so that all may hear her message with clear and patient instruction for every willing listener today.
Second, we see to whom wisdom calls. She calls out to the sons of men, meaning all people everywhere (vv. 4–5). Her invitation is not limited to the educated or the powerful. Even the simple and inexperienced are invited to learn understanding and grow in wisdom.
Third, we hear what wisdom says. Her words are excellent, right, and true (vv. 6–9). “Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips shall be right things” (v. 6). Nothing from her mouth is crooked or dishonest. Her message leads people toward righteousness and wise living, and steady moral direction daily for every believer.
Finally, we learn why wisdom calls so urgently. What she offers is far more valuable than silver, gold, or precious jewels (vv. 10–11). “Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold” (v. 10). Wisdom gives guidance for life, helping people avoid danger and walk in God’s ways. Those who listen discover a treasure greater than any earthly wealth and last-ing peace of heart.
Application
Am I listening when wisdom calls? Do I slow down enough to hear God’s truth in His Word? Am I ignoring wisdom’s voice? Am I choosing wisdom over the temporary riches and pleasures of this world? I will seek God’s guidance for my decisions, remembering that true wisdom is a treasure far greater than silver or gold.
Proverbs 8:1–11 (NET)
1 Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice?
2 At the top of the prominent places along the way, at the intersection of the paths she has taken her stand;
3 beside the gates opening into the city, at the entrance of the doorways she cries out:
4 “To you, O people, I call out, and my voice calls to all mankind.
5 You who are naive, discern wisdom! And you fools, understand discernment!
6 Listen, for I will speak excellent things, and my lips will utter what is right.
7 For my mouth speaks truth, and my lips hate wickedness.
8 All the words of my mouth are righteous; there is nothing in them twisted or crooked.
9 All of them are clear to the discerning and upright to those who find knowledge.
10 Receive my instruction rather than silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold.
11 For wisdom is better than rubies, and desirable things cannot be compared to her.
Swindoll – The Man Who Bought a Yacht
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