[Applause] We are in a series called Be Wise. Look at your neighbor and say, “Be wise.” Look at your other neighbor and say, “Come on now, come on now, you too!” Tell somebody right now, “You must be going to the gym right now.” Okay, maybe I’m carrying a little bit too far.
It’s in this series we’re talking about the wisdom of God. I want you, if you would, to look at Proverbs 4, and as we go there say with me: “My heart’s open, my mind’s ready, I’m ready, I’m ready, make me better God, make me better God. By Your Word, I receive it, I believe it, and I won’t be the same again, I won’t be the same in Jesus’ name.”
Would you get something to write with, take notes, something you can record? I hope to say something special today, but even more important, I hope the Lord talks to you through the time I’m sharing. When we’re ready, and prompted to assume there’s going to be something worth looking back on and remembering, I think that’s when God really feels welcome to talk to us.
We’re going to read Proverbs 4:7: “The beginning of wisdom is this: get wisdom.” Pretty cool, huh? We’ll talk in a few minutes about the fear of the Lord. The Bible says the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. These are not conflicting verses; one is about foundation, the other prompts action. Both say: Get wisdom.
Though it costs all you have—time, sacrifice, commitment, energy, effort—get understanding, cherish her, and she will exalt you. Embrace her. Make the first move. Wisdom is crying out in the streets, accessible, available to you. Make the first move, cherish her, and she will honor you, give you a garland to grace your head, present you with a glorious crown. For some of you still struggling with the female gender usage, wisdom is a she in Proverbs.
Wisdom is the master key that unlocks all the treasures of life. There are doors meant for you to open that will stay closed without wisdom. God wants to give you a never-ending, day-by-day increase of wisdom. Luke 2:52 says Jesus increased in wisdom, in stature, and in favor with God and man. In the same way, God wants you to grow in wisdom. You are not stuck in your problems; you just need wisdom.
Wisdom is more powerful than weapons of war. If you’re discouraged or disappointed, wisdom sets you on a path of hope, gives direction to your life, and restores purpose. Happiness follows wisdom, which is better than silver, gold, or rubies (Proverbs 3). Nothing you desire can compare with wisdom.
Wisdom sees the connection between choices, actions, and outcomes. God made dirt and seeds. What seed you sow determines your harvest. Parents, consider the seeds you are planting in your children: church attendance, investment of time, involvement in spiritual growth. Choices are seeds. If children don’t experience community and commitment, they may not value church as adults. Choose wisely.
How do we increase wisdom? Number one: Fear the Lord. The fear of the Lord is not being scared; it is reverence, awe, respect. Align your life and choices to what God desires. Wisdom is the application of knowledge. Without reverencing God, Scripture is just a story.
Number two: Prioritize wisdom in prayer. James 1:5 says if anyone lacks wisdom, ask God, who gives generously without finding fault, and it will be given. Make wisdom your number one request. Daily. Constantly. Expect to receive God’s wisdom.
Number three: Look and listen for wisdom. Proverbs 8:34 says blessed are those who listen and watch daily at my doors. The average adult makes 35,000 decisions a day. Children make 3,000. Your choices shape your future. Read, meditate, memorize Proverbs. Surround yourself with people who honor God’s Word and wisdom.
Number four: Choose wisdom over preference or opinion. Wisdom is often unpopular, counter to personal preference, or contrary to worldly opinion. Do not argue with it. Speak wisdom even when rejected; it brings blessing, honor, and success.
Be wise in relationships, conversations, attitudes, and responses—even when you fail or are discouraged. Wisdom brings reward on the other side of difficulty. Proverbs 8:35 says the gain of wisdom is better than gold. Your choices guided by God’s wisdom will bring life, not regret.
Raise your hands: “I can’t go where I’m meant to go without God’s wisdom. I need wisdom. I ask God for wisdom in my life.” Declare it. Receive it. Let it guide your decisions and influence your outcomes. Celebrate the gift of wisdom today!
No matter your age, stage, or situation, choose to make wisdom your priority, and watch God honor your obedience.
[Music & Applause]
Raise your hand and pray: “Lord Jesus, welcome to my world. Forgive me of all my sin. Come into my life and make me a new person. I receive You now. I welcome a brand-new beginning today.” Celebrate God’s wisdom and guidance.
