Wisdom, like an inheritance, is a good thing and benefits those who see the sun. Wisdom is a shelter as money is a shelter, but the advantage of knowledge is this: That wisdom preserves the life of its possessor. ~Ecclesiastes 7:11-12
Where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. The wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. ~James 3:16-17
A fool and his money may soon be parted, but no one can separate you from your hard earned wisdom. That’s why it is such a great shield. Money can be gained and lost, but wisdom is available no matter what your status is in the world. Wisdom is gained through life experience. Its beauty is in the fact that it can’t be bought. It is taught, but you have to be tuned in to the right channel or you might miss it.
James talks about two kinds of wisdom, worldly wisdom that is better known as, “looking out for No. 1,” and heavenly wisdom that is “pure, then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” It all depends upon the direction of our heart.
“Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12) It is interesting that, as we grow older, the worldly wisdom usually fades in importance and we find ourselves craving peace, purity, and harmony. Thus, the gift of God’s wisdom becomes most important. Our own personal goals are no longer as important as having family get along and taking the time to listen to others and to God.
The teacher says that godly wisdom is better than an inheritance; that it will be a more protective shield than money ever could. As we grow in wisdom, we begin to understand why that is and, if we really understand, we will pursue it more than any financial gain.
God’s wisdom will teach us how to get along so that we no longer have to fight for what we want or defend our way. We learn to value the shield that is growing within us. Each experience that helps us grow in God’s wisdom is a gift, from Him, that can never be taken away. May we lean on it as our protection, appreciate it’s value, and maintain it as our shield to bring us to eternity.
Prayer: Father, thank You for the gift of Your Word that instructs us in wisdom. Father, thank you for the experiences of life, proctored and monitored by your gracious love, through which we learn the benefits of applying Your wisdom to out decisions. May we lean on Your wisdom as our protection, appreciate it’s value, and maintain it as our shield to bring us to eternity. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Song: Immortal, Invisible
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