Through the words of Proverbs, we are taking steps toward wisdom, walking together one step at a time. Proverbs 2:2-4 urges us to cry out for knowledge and understanding, seeking them as one seeks silver and hidden treasures. In our current reality, filled with immediate needs, problems, and the burdens of life, why should we earnestly seek wisdom, knowledge, and understanding as if they were treasures? I will address this through a biblical understanding of humanity, the world, and life.
First, Biblical Anthropology
We humans are instinctual beings.
Within us reside various instincts alongside our basic needs, such as hunger, and sometimes we act unlawfully to satisfy those instincts. However, as Proverbs 16:8 says, we do not live merely pursuing simple desires. Even with limited visible possessions and income, we long to lead a noble life characterized by justice. This is because we, made in the image of God, possess a desire that other creatures do not have. Beyond our instinctual desires, we are happy only when that longing is fulfilled; therefore, we cannot help but seek wisdom, knowledge, and understanding.
Second, Biblical Worldview
The world we live in is complicated and difficult to navigate due to sin, which has brought about decay and death.
As Proverbs 24:13 and 25:16 indicate, what seems beneficial at one time may not be beneficial at another. Thus, our good desires can be twisted into selfish wants due to sin, revealing not the best version of ourselves but our worst before the choices we face. So, how should we, as redeemed Christians, live in such a world?
Third, Biblical Life Philosophy
God tells us in Genesis 1:27 that all humans are made in His image. Through the laws found in Proverbs 22:28, Deuteronomy 19:14, and Proverbs 23:10-11, He expresses His desire for us to love our neighbors, orphans, and widows and to act justly towards them.
*We can move boundary stones to claim what is ours, but we should not invade others' lands. Recognizing that each of us bears God's image, we must consider how we relate to one another and what choices we make in our daily lives. Living in accordance with these laws, we must remember that we are not saved by our deeds but are called to live as true human beings, having first experienced God's love and grace. We are encouraged to rise to a higher calling, living as beings made in His image.
- Wisdom is a Gift from God
The wisdom given to us as a gift enables us to live as true human beings.
Therefore, Proverbs 4:5-7 encourages us to acquire wisdom at any cost. Experiencing grace through Jesus Christ, when our desire for the Lord and His kingdom transforms into a longing, we seek wisdom above all else, for the ultimate treasure is our Savior. No matter our circumstances, a heart that seeks the Lord is when we are most truly human. I believe that belonging to the Lord and living out our true humanity is the greatest blessing and happiness.
Discussion Questions and Applications
What do I earnestly desire and seek in my life? Is it a longing for God and His will, or is it a negative desire arising from within me?
*Longing: A deep wish.
*Negative Desire: A craving to possess or enjoy something due to a sense of lack.Why does Proverbs urge us to pursue wisdom, knowledge, and understanding with everything we have? What should we do to attain them?
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). I encourage you to hold onto this verse and pray.
Proverbs has a total of 31 chapters, allowing you to meditate on one chapter each day for a month. May you realize God's heart, which desires us to respect one another as beings made in His image, and may you take a further step toward wisdom as you grow to be more like the Lord.
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