To receive instruction in wise behavior, righteousness, justice, equity; to give prudence to the naïve,
to the youth knowledge and discretion.

Proverbs 1:3-4

Solomon’s purpose statement continues here at the beginning of chapter one. This is quite a comprehensive sentence given in these two verses, which we can breakout into six profound realities about wisdom and gives us a sharper picture of just how precise Solomon was in his concern for his son’s pursuit of wisdom. 

Wisdom propels righteousness.

It is only in wisdom that our moral compass keeps a ‘true north’ leading to biblical virtue. If we want to be taken seriously as Christ-Followers, we must pursue righteousness in our own lives. 

Wisdom blankets justice.

Truly, there is no justice without wisdom as we have seen in recent years with the dangerous results of our culture turning their backs on God’s wisdom.

Wisdom champions equity.

Here too, true equity can only be delivered through biblical wisdom. Equity born out of hate and vengeance and jealousy is not equity at all but a cruel pendulum swing from one extreme of injustice to the another extreme of injustice.

Wisdom cultivates prudence and protects the naïve.

Wisdom provides the inner-filter we all need, but especially the naïve, to live prudent lives, ie; lives that display restraint for the benefit of others in all our dealings and circumstances. 

Wisdom is the beginning of knowledge leading into adulthood.

When knowledge is sought without God’s wisdom, the end result is: ‘My truth’ and ‘My power’ and ‘My self-awareness’: a devastating narcissism that is destroying our youngest generations.

Wisdom is the backbone of discretion protecting youth. 

In a social media world where every imprudent behavior is shouted into the stratosphere, young people must exercise the great power of discretion. Adults could do with a lot more of that as well!

Wisdom isn’t just about thought processes or emotional balance. Sound wisdom controls behavior or conversely not having sound wisdom leaves behavior unchecked. And couldn’t we and our culture use a whole lot more Behavior Reformation! 

The letter to the Christians in Rome adds to Solomon’s plea so perfectly.

Oh, the depth of the riches both of wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways! For WHO HAS KNOWN THE MIND OF THE LORD OR WHO BECAME HIS COUNSELOR? Or WHO HAS FIRST GIVEN TO HIM THAT IT MIGHT BE PAID BACK TO HIM AGAIN? For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things.
To Him be the glory forever. Amen.

Romans 11:33-36