God is so generous! Reading Proverbs leaves me feeling wealthy and wise. Throughout our lives, we are offered two basic choices: wisdom and foolishness. Deception may confuse us, and its lies may lure us, but wisdom is not shy. She confidently offers herself as our best option, zealous to impart her truth.
She watches for us and calls out, raising her voice to be heard. She stations herself at every decision point, gated entrance, and crossroad, and cries out:
“Listen to me! For I have important things to tell you.
Everything I say is right, for I speak the truth and detest… deception.
My advice is wholesome. There is nothing devious or crooked in it.
My words are plain… clear to those with knowledge.
Choose my instruction… For wisdom is… valuable…
Nothing you desire can compare with it.”*
She doesn’t hold back but positions herself to guide us. She implores,
“Come in with me… Come, eat my food…
Leave your simple ways behind, and begin to live;
learn to use good judgment.”*
Wisdom calls, offering us a path that will be good and right and life-giving. Every capsule of wisdom we ingest carries light and truth, hope and freedom, clarity and purpose. And it is free for those of us who attune our ears.
*See Proverbs 8:1-11; 9:3-6 NLT
BARBARA HIGBY 