When Solomon asked God for wisdom and not riches, we gained the book of Proverbs. Even those who reject God can gain insights from reading Proverbs. Other cultures have proverbs, but Solomon's are special. They are a mix of weather, science, good business, the ten commandments, and living well in relationships. They put God in the center of the universe and not ourselves. Learning and living by them can lead to life, lasting love, and success.
This one uses the word "fear" in most translations. As a child, it confused me. As a child, I did not want to be afraid of God who I knew to be our Heavenly Father. As an adult, I know that fear can mean healthy respect.
When I come up to the edge of a cliff, my head and my stomach sense the fear. I do not like heights with unprotected edges. I am a "safety girl." There is awe, wonder, and a respect for danger.
C.S. Lewis, in The Chronicles of Narnia captures it well in describing Aslan, the Lion who is the King who represents God. "Lucy asked Mrs. Beaver if "He is safe?" She replies, "Of course not, but he is good." Both things can be true.
Knowing God and following Jesus is not always safe, but it is always good. Add in the Holy Spirit, and there are times we are downright uncomfortable, knowing to our core what HE wants us to do. That "stills soft voice" can be bossy, but I have discovered it is never wrong. The Holy Trinity provides a compass, an example, a Savior, and a guide to go with us. We are never without counsel or a counselor.
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight." -Proverbs 9:10
Spending time in Proverbs is like a bodybuilder lifting weights to strengthen the body for any test that comes along, except Proverbs helps us train our hearts, minds, souls, and spirits for the day ahead.
Today, I am grateful for wisdom builders.
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