Crystal Clear

Read Proverbs 8

My words are plain to anyone with understanding, clear to those with knowledge.

Proverbs 8:9

First, to whose “words” does this proverb refer? This chapter is one of the few in Proverbs dedicated entirely to one specific theme. Wisdom speaks throughout the chapter. She states the case for her own trustworthiness.

This particular proverb offers two healthy perspectives on wisdom. It states that wisdom belongs to people who have already gained wisdom (understanding). The more wisdom they gain, the more wisdom seems plain—the plain truth. Wisdom also grows in those with knowledge, those who can make the logical connections between what they know and how they should act.

This could be called the before-and-after experience of wisdom. Knowledge leads to wisdom, which leads to greater understanding. As understanding grows, further wisdom stands out in plain sight. A passion for wisdom leads to wisdom, which in turn leads to even more wisdom.

Wisdom advertises results. She challenges people to take her up on her promise.

A WORD FOR TODAY

Wisdom grows.

Dear Lord, fill me with that unquenchable thirst to know you, the source of all wisdom.