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| Image by Melissa Fischer on Pinterest/Instagram |
Where does knowledge take root and grow?
King Solomon's father, David, who preceded Solomon on the throne had a heart that beat for the Lord. When sin took David out of step with his Lord, it nearly destroyed him. I imagine that David and Solomon had had some great father/son conversations about the living God they knew so well.
Solomon, when God told him he would grant him anything he requested, asked for wisdom.
"Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of yours?" -1 Kings 3:9
An understanding heart was his request. Wisdom is not the same thing as knowledge, but they are closely related. Proverbs and Ecclesiastes are a result of God's answer to Solomon. Knowledge can be very concrete and limiting. Wisdom recognizes that God can, does and will move in the midst of His people. Wisdom asked God for something money can't buy.
Wisdom brought Solomon fame and it expanded his fortune. He acted as wise counsel for all who made it into his courts. From harlots to queens, he helped settle their disputes. Even the Queen of Sheba came to experience the wisdom of Solomon.
Where does knowledge begin?
"Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." -Proverbs 1:7 (NLT)
When taking a deeper look into any passage, review multiple translations and Bible Concordance like Strongs. "Fear is not just shaking and trembling, although, God's presence does evoke that response. Fear is, also, a sense of awe and respect, like we feel for nature's laws including gravity and the freezing point of water.
Knowledge begins with ·respect [fear; awe] for the Lord, but fools ·hate [despise] wisdom and ·discipline [self-control; instruction]. -Proverbs 1:7(The Expanded Bible)
Like any learning, there is a starting point. Solomon is clear... don't forget, ignore or leave God out. I was smitten with this beautiful art by Melissa Fischer. You can find her on Instagram or Pinterest. She illustrates Proverbs 1:7 beautifully. I adore that she includes music and art, too.
Labor Day is the official "end of summer" for students, but most have been back to school for a week or two. It is a fresh season of learning new things. Solomon's wisdom... taught at home... is full of goodness to supplement core curriculum taught in schools. Those who write it on their hearts, like Solomon did, will find success in other places.
God delights in blessing those who seek his face for wisdom and grace.
Today, I am grateful the beginning of knowledge takes root when we fear, respect and are awed by the Lord of the Universe.
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