Proverbs 1:7 “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”

WISE MAN

I remember reading this verse when I was a Senior in High School and a brand, new Christian.  My brother was a freshman in college at the great University of Georgia (Go DAWGS!).  I wrote him a letter and quoted this verse.  This verse still holds a special place in my heart.

What was King Solomon saying here?  It’s pretty straightforward.  Only God can give you true wisdom and those who spurn that are fools.  This came from the wisest man to ever walk the planet, except for Jesus.  Solomon was known for his wisdom.  People came from far and wide just to listen to him give advice.  And he recognized that it all came from God.

TEACHING MOMENT

Our children can be hardheaded, can’t they?  As they get older they begin to think they have all the answers.  They think they know it all.  You may have read this before: “Teenager, tired of being hassled by your stupid parents?  Act now, move out, get a job, pay your own bills…while you still know everything!”

That may sound funny, but so many of our kids think they do know it all.  Remind them of this verse.  True wisdom comes from God.  True wisdom submits to authority.  True wisdom seeks to serve others.  True wisdom teaches us to fear and honor God.

So, are you wise?  Do you recognize that any “smarts” you have are a direct result of what you have received from a Holy God?  Do you give Him credit for the things He has gifted you with?  Are you pointing to Him when others brag on your wisdom?

Give the Wise One the honor due Him!  He is the Only Wise God!