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In Search of Wisdom
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” (Proverbs 9:10 NIV).
If you are reading this, you are older today than you were yesterday. However, just because we are older does not necessarily make us wiser. Not everyone grows wise with age, but everyone does grow old with age. It is important to note that we should all show respect to our elders, regardless of their level of wisdom.
However, I think society tends to confuse wisdom with age. However, a person can be old and not necessarily be very wise. Education is fine and knowledge is great. However, a person that has understanding of a subject has mastered the topic and is on the path to wisdom. To understand something goes far beyond education and knowledge. A person with understanding can use their education and knowledge to figure out (understand) any new situation or problem
I have always been attracted to older men just like a moth to a light at night. They have experiences, stories, and knowledge. I believe that I can learn something from everyone that I meet, even if they are unable to speak or heart. These people in particular can teach one of the greatest lessons of all – gratitude.
Yes, I enjoy spending time with older men and hearing stories of the good old days. I particularly enjoy spending time with older men that have wisdom to share. Wisdom isn’t about knowing how to operate the latest piece of technology or keeping up with popular culture. Those with wisdom discern truth and justice in a world filled with many, many false voices.
The discernment of truth begins by loving God and gaining wisdom through His word, Holy Scripture. Proverbs 2:1-6 gives us insight into wisdom. “My child, listen to what I say, and treasure my commands. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight, and ask for understanding. Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures. Then you will understand what it means to fear the LORD, and you will gain knowledge of God. For the LORD grants wisdom! From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.”
Knowledge of the Bible will provide you the wisdom to make proper decisions. We tend to make poor decisions when we are hungry or tired. We are told in Matthew 4:2 that Jesus had fasted 40 days after His baptism and was hungry. It was in this condition that the Spirit delivered Him to Satan. The first words that Jesus spoke to the enemy was “It is written…” (Matthew 4:4) and then He proceeded to quote Scripture. Jesus is showing great wisdom in the face of great temptation because He has a complete understanding of Scripture.
Prayer: Dear God, Renew in us a clean spirit that seeks to gain true wisdom that only comes from you. Your Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light to unto our path. We love you and need you. Amen.
Meet the Author
Todd Shupe is a Men’s Ministry Specialist through the General Commission of United Methodist Men and is in training to be a Certified Lay Minister through the Louisiana Conference of the United Methodist Church. He currently serves as the President of the Baton Rouge District of United Methodist Men and is a Board Member for Gulf South Men and serves on the Action Team for The Kingdom Group. He is a volunteer for the Walk to Emmaus, Grace Camp, and Iron Sharpens Iron. Todd resides in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
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