Wisdom Brings Happiness
|
Key Verse: “Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.” Lesson Scriptures: Proverbs 3:13-18; |
WISDOM HAS BEEN DEFINED as knowledge applied toward the doing of God’s will in the daily experiences of life. Our Key Verse states that the man who finds such wisdom will attain happiness. This happiness is not according to the flesh, but that which is in the spiritual mind as it grows and develops into the maturity of character exemplified in Christ. It is a happiness of knowing that we are striving to do God’s will to the best of our ability, and that he, in turn, is supervising this very work. Paul says, “It is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” (Phil. 2:13) It is a happiness of peace in all circumstances. Paul further states, “The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”—Phil. 4:7
In the verses of our lesson, a number of illustrations are given to point out the importance of wisdom. Proverbs 3:14,15 states that wisdom is of more value than silver, fine gold, and rubies. Although these precious metals and stones have great value, the wealth that they bring is transitory. It only lasts as long as this fleshly life, “We brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.” (I Tim. 6:7) Wisdom, though, is likened by Jesus to heavenly treasure, which will last eternally. Notice his words, “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal.”—Matt. 6:19-20
Our lesson continues by assuring us that wisdom will give us “length of days.” (Prov. 3:16) It is also likened to a “tree of life.” (vs. 18) Both of these statements point out the eternal benefits that accrue to those who develop this quality of character. The ‘length of days’ spoken of is not those of this present sin-shortened life. It is, instead, speaking of a hope of eternal life. All who attain eternal life, whether on earth or in heaven, will need to have developed wisdom either now, or in Christ’s coming kingdom. To all such it will be a ‘tree of life,’ a source of life-giving sustenance to their heart and mind which will serve them for all eternity.
Proverbs 4:1-5 stresses that wisdom doesn’t just happen. It must have its beginning rooted in the understanding of God’s character, plans, purposes, and teachings. “Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding. For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law. For I was my father’s son, tender and only beloved in the sight of my mother. He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments, and live. Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth.” Notice such words as ‘instruction,’ ‘understanding,’ ‘doctrine,’ ‘my law,’ ‘my commandments,’ ‘words of my mouth.’ All of these are tied to the thought of wisdom. It cannot be based on error, but must have Truth as its only source.