The Wise Get Wiser

“Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance.” Proverbs 1:5

It’s a scene we have all witnessed (and maybe even participated in). A frazzled mom with a cart full of groceries, her hands on either side of her little boy’s face, pleading with him (I don’t know why I picture a boy in this scenario!) “Listen to me! You can’t take off like that! You need to stay with me!” This loving mother knows something her child does not–there are a lot of harmful things in the world, and it doesn’t take much to fall prey to them. He will learn as he grows and listens.

Yet, not everyone does. The dictionary defines a fool as a person who acts unwisely or imprudently. A fool’s fatal flaw is that he thinks he knows far more than he does. A fool’s arrogance will cause most of his problems. He is unwilling to listen, presuming that he possesses all of the wisdom he needs for life. In our verse today, Solomon says that a truly wise person will listen, will learn, will gain wisdom and get guidance from others. This is an ongoing process for the wise person. He knows just how much he does not know.

Of course, Scripture also addresses the best place to find this wisdom for life. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him” (James 1:5). We have a limitless Source of guidance for life and relationships. The Spirit of God uses the Word of God to lead us in all that we face. Are you wise? If you are, you will be constantly seeking to get wiser.

-Pastor Mike