Wisdom Calls

Proverbs 8:32-36

Whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the LORD. (Proverbs 8:35)

A FEW CHRISTIAN BUSINESSPEOPLE started a Bible study at their office but didn’t present it as a Bible study or even as a religious group at all. They simply discussed profound truths—the importance of integrity, the value of hard work, the effectiveness of a disciplined mind—and applied them to their work setting. Eventually, participants in the discussion group asked where this great material was coming from. When the leaders explained that all of these truths were drawn from the Bible, and primarily from the book of Proverbs, some of the inquirers gave their lives to Christ. Truth had drawn them to God even when it had not been presented in spiritual terms.

Proverbs 8 is written in the voice of Wisdom, and it calls all who need understanding to enter in. Wisdom was formed before the foundation of the world and was woven into creation as its underlying principle (Proverbs 8:22-31). It flows from the mind of the Creator. So when people encounter true wisdom, they are encountering something from God. Wisdom draws people to him, whether they know it or not.

You don’t have to quote chapter and verse to speak God’s Word into people’s lives. You don’t even need to identify your counsel as biblical. You do, however, need to soak in the Holy Spirit’s presence and receive insight from him. A person who saturates him- or herself in truth will find it flowing freely in moments when wisdom is needed. When you bask in the light of God’s counsel and listen for his voice, you begin to think his thoughts, walk in his power, exude his love, and develop his attitudes. You represent his nature.

You have the potential to bless those around you with the wisdom of God, even if you don’t think you’re particularly wise. Ground yourself in truth and offer it freely—but never forcefully—to those who seek advice. Don’t worry about citing your source; that time will come. Let people be drawn to the logic that founded this world.

{Holy Spirit, the entire universe rests on your reasoning, your logic, your truth. Let it permeate my being. Immerse my mind in your counsel. Use my thoughts and words to bless, encourage, and advise those who seek you. Amen.