The Whereabouts of Wisdom in our World: Lesson from Solomon
By Rev. Dr. Jason Curry
We know someone because we understand certain facts associated with that person. For example, one may say: “He scored 11 points during the basketball game.” However, we obtain wisdom regarding someone when we understand their value beyond what they do. For example, someone might say: “It does matter if he scores one point. He is my son and I thank God for allowing me to bring him into this world.”
In Proverbs, King Solomon spends several chapters discussing the value of wisdom. In Proverbs 9:10, he writes: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.” Many theologians agree that “fear of the Lord” does not mean that we should be afraid of God. Rather, fear of the Lord should be interpreted as “seeking to understand and acknowledge God’s presence in situations while making an earnest attempt to following God’s direction.” Since God is love (see 1 John 4:8), we definitely need God’s wisdom in our lives.
If wisdom is indeed important in our lives, we should ask, “Where is wisdom in our world?” I assert that wisdom, as defined by Solomon and exemplified by Jesus, can be found in many areas throughout our world. That wisdom is present when we see people valuing the concept of service to others. In Matthew 23:11, Jesus said: “The greatest among you will be your servant.” Therefore, when people serve others based upon their convictions about God, we see that wisdom is present. When people avoid or severe toxic relationships because they believe that they are “fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14),” we see wisdom in action. When people seek to preserve the environment because they recognize it as an extension of God’s creation (see Genesis 1), we see wisdom in action. Wisdom is evident when we see love and faithfulness to God (Proverbs 3:3), trust in God (Proverbs 3:5), avoid evil (Proverbs 3:7), tithe (Proverbs 3:9), not withhold good from those who deserve it (Proverbs 3:28), help neighbors (Proverbs 3:29), tell the truth (Proverbs 3:30), and promote peace instead of violence (Proverbs 3:31).
Wisdom is definitely present in our world. When we find it, we should embrace and support it. If we do not immediately see it, we should find a way to manifest it.
