Christians say they believe God is all-knowing, all-seeing, and all-powerful. So, there is no mystery that King Solomon concluded, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” (Prov. 9:10, NIV). “The fear of the Lord,” what does that mean? We know what it means if we believe with our heart, mind, and soul that “he created everything in heaven and on earth, seen and unseen, including all forces and powers, and all rulers and authorities” (Col. 1:16). Big Question: What are you willing to sacrifice to get understanding?
We could study and show ourselves approved unto God as the Scriptures instruct us. We could also have a meaningful conversation with fellow disciples. People use sayings based on the Word of God. For instance, “Look before you leap” means to get wisdom and understanding before you act. This saying resembles a biblical proverb, “Give insight to the simple, knowledge and discernment to the young” (Prov. 1:4, NLT); i.e., teach the young to look (get insight) before they leap (decide).
We must spend as much time as necessary to get an understanding. We admit some biblical texts are hard to understand, especially when read without the counsel of the Holy Spirit and when lawlessness prevails. However, as we move forward, we must remember God told Jeremiah He would give the people a heart to know Him (Jer. 24:7). Jesus verified what was said to Jeremiah to Matthew and the apostles, saying thus: “To you, it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven” (Matt. 13:11). The truth reveals itself to those who seek understanding.
Example: “Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding” (Psa. 14:29, ESV). The wise show patience because they do not act impulsively and do not allow foolishness to drive their decision-making. God’s Word gives insight. Scripture says, “A man’s insight gives him patience” (Prov. 19:11). When one has insight, they overlook offenses and do not allow trivial matters to be blown out of proportion.
Wisdom is always available. If we lack wisdom, we can ask God; the wisdom He gives is generous and comes with a blessing. “Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding” (Prov. 3:13, NIV). Wisdom is more precious than rubies (Prov. 8:11) and is a better investment than pure gold (Prov. 16:16). We need to be able to recognize God’s wisdom, which is peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy, impartial, and sincere (James 3:17). So, do not confuse godly wisdom with worldly wisdom which is chaotic.
Godly wisdom helps discern thoughts and intentions of the heart (Heb. 4:12). “It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right” (2 Tim. 3:16, NIV). Let us all be accountable as Ministers of Reconciliation and Stewards of the mysteries of God. If you are wise and understand God’s ways, prove it by living an honorable life.
Minister Nettie Pennington, Associate Minister, Springfield MB Church
