Seeking The Right "Stuff"

SEEKING THE RIGHT “STUFF”

Years ago while I was a graduate student studying human behavior, it was the “rule” of the day to take an endless number of pencil and paper tests. The object, so often stated, was to “provide an understanding of who we were and to bring self-enlightenment and understanding.” Some were insightful, some worthless and some actually, if I might say it with respect, (now that I have a Ph.D. and can speak with authority?) really stupid.

Proverbs 18:15 has some great advice for students of all ages and disciplines: “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, the ears of the wise seek it out.” The first step of a wise person is to understand that he is not wise. How very interesting. Many think their professors possess knowledge and wisdom, and by sitting in their classes and listening to their lectures, will impart to them the information they need and elevate them intellectually. Others who believe they are learned persons seek to prove they are knowledgeable by having someone validate it. Some think that truth and knowledge can be discovered apart from God.

The truly wise person is one who is willing to admit that getting knowledge and wisdom is a life-long journey that begins and ends with God. Proverbs reminds us over and over again to “let the wise listen and add to their knowledge and let the discerning get knowledge.”

But Solomon never strays from the indisputable fact that “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.”

Teachers and books will pass away, but God’s Word abides forever!

Prayer: Give us wisdom, knowledge, and insight, Lord, that comes from You. May teachers who know and honor You proclaim loudly that wisdom begins with fearing You! Amen.

Scripture For Today: Proverbs 18:15 The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, the ears of the wise seek it out.