Where wisdom begins

I’ve been on a journey this past month through the book of Proverbs. One chapter a day for a month sees me through its 31 short chapters, and I think I’m just going to keep going through it until more of its wise words sink into this thick skull of mine. Because I tend to learn things the hard way. Because the more I read the words of the book of Proverbs, the more I ache to possess the wisdom that it so eloquently describes. Because you just can’t have too much of God’s Word. So, I will read on.

I’m finding that I have many favorites in the book of Proverbs as I continue to read through it again and again. I’ve underlined and highlighted much. Its wisdom is deep, and I feel as if I’ve only just scratched the surface. Among my many favorites though, this one particularly stands out.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. (Proverbs 9:10)

What is this saying? Life on this earth can be filled with an incredible amount of pursuits. We can climb every ladder. We can educate ourselves and receive many degrees. We can buy and sell and make loads of money. We can achieve the Pinterest life and have the perfect family. We can strive and work and toil under the sun all the days of our lives seeking the satisfaction that this world has to offer, temporary at best. But at the end of the day, “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.”

What is this saying? In God’s economy, our pursuit of Him trumps all other pursuits. At the end of the day, what matters most is whether or not we have revered, honored, and worshiped Jesus Christ. That’s it. All else is secondary. The beginning of wisdom, true wisdom, is to fear the Lord.

And so, there remains one question:

Are our lives characterized by the pursuit of the Holy? Do we position our hearts, goals, longings, and motivations in such a way that prioritizes Christ above everything else? Do we fear the Lord?

Ok, that was three questions. But do you see the truth to be revealed behind each question? Do you hear wisdom calling out? To know Jesus Christ, there is no greater thing. This is where wisdom begins.