Wealth and Wisdom

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“Does not wisdom call? Does not understanding raise her voice?
…Take my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is better than jewels, and all that you may desire cannot compare with her.”

Proverbs 8:1, 10-11

 

Wisdom is a hard sell to our default human nature. When faced with the choice between riches and wisdom, selfish desire rises up within us. Some have even made wealth a spiritual pursuit, even thinking that it is a sign of spirituality. Others will approach wisdom and wealth and say, “Why can’t I have both?” Indeed, there are some who have both wealth and wisdom, but I can guarantee you that it is because they have pursued wisdom over and above wealth.

But for now the choice before us is either or. Faced with the choice of Solomon, whom God told to ask for whatever he wished, would we choose wisdom? In our heart of hearts would we really be ok with leaving a heap of gold on the table and walking away?

How do you know that wisdom really is better? You have to try it out. You have to pursue wisdom with pure intentions, not just to gain something else. Once you try it, you may find out that the choice of Solomon is what you truly want also.

If you have been following along on this 30 days of Proverbs journey with me, I want to encourage you to take a step and invite someone along for the rest of the ride. At the end of the 30 days take some time with your friend and talk about what you have gained. You may just find that your heart desires wisdom more than you realize.

Lord, help me to see spiritual reality as you see it. Let me know how much more valuable wisdom is than wealth and all luxuries. Amen.

 

Devoted to keeping Jesus Christ the main thing.

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