The Fear Of The Lord, part three

Ps 111:10
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom;
all who follow his precepts have good understanding.

We admire those who are wise among us. Most of us want to be thought of as wise. But where do we go to get more wisdom when we run out?

We go back to the basics.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning or the foundation of anything good. You build on top of a healthy respect for God. Once that foundation has been laid, the steps toward wisdom can begin.

Wise people have understanding. The truly wise have been following the precepts or laws of God. His precepts were laid out for us long before we were here. It’s our job to find them, read them, follow them. God is the one who grants us the understanding.

If we desire wisdom and understanding, we must look closely at the word ‘beginning’. When we acknowledge that God is to be feared with a deep reverential respect, we begin the development of wisdom in us. It grows like a seed. Unseen, but active.

Our consistent attitude of obedience to God’s laws and our consistent fear of the Lord feeds the growth of wisdom. Over time, the fruit of our consistency is visible and useful.

Another verse that comes to mind – and fits well with the above – is Proverbs 13:10. “Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.”

Fear God and let his guidance rule in your life, and then wisdom will grow.