The Beginning of Wisdom

One of the greatest difficulties facing every generation of God’s people is to discern true wisdom in the face of unique, generational challenges. Though we can learn much from our spiritual ancestors, we sometimes confront trials that did not exist a decade ago. Thankfully, since there is nothing new under the sun (Eccl. 1:9), this drives us back to Scripture (1 Pet. 1:24-25).

‘Wisdom’ holds a special place in Scripture. It belongs to God to possess wisdom, yet it is also a blessing that He gives to those who fear Him. Wisdom does not discriminate against male or female, young or old, rich or poor, yet everyone has need of greater wisdom. Likewise, wisdom is always able to enhance ones position, whether one is already wise or is naïve (cf. Prov. 1:4-6). The question, then, is this: how does one acquire wisdom?

Mercifully, God gives us the answer in His word. The answer is relatively simple. How does one acquire wisdom?

“The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom!

And with all your acquiring, get understanding.”

--Prov. 4:7

How does one acquire wisdom? One must merely love it (4:6), seek after it (4:7), and prize it (4:8). That is to say, the wisdom endeavor is self-fulfilling—as soon as a person earnestly begins the endeavor of acquiring true wisdom, that person actually has wisdom. Why? Because the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Prov. 9:10). If a person is earnestly seeking true wisdom, then they have been humbled, for they know that wisdom is sought outside of ourselves. Wisdom is found in God’s Word.

Once a person starts on the path of seeking God’s wisdom, they have been changed. They no longer seek after the trite, artificial, impotent ‘wisdom’ of the world (Prov. 14:12), but they desire God’s wisdom. This wisdom comes from His word (cf. Prov. 1:1-7).

So, if you desire to grow in wisdom, you know where to begin. Happy hunting!

--Dean of Admissions