FEBRUARY 18, 2022
WISDOM
Since our Band of Brothers has wisdom at the top of its Four Pillars, (Wisdom, Courage, Self-Mastery, and Love) I thought we would review Proverbs 4:7 which says; “Wisdom is the Principal thing; therefore get wisdom; and with all thy getting, get understanding.” Wisdom is supreme and is something that should be sought as a source of protection and understanding. (rather than judging) Solomon goes on to remind us in Proverbs 8:14; (New Living Translation) “Common sense and success belong to me. Insight and strength are mine.” How many knowledgeable people do you know that THINK they are wise but really have NO common sense? They may be book smart but they are not very street smart because of their lack of “Tough or Challenging” experiences. I know quite a few and it just may be “me” at times. Try a little humility here.
We talk about the importance of seeking wisdom, which in this case, offers divine insight concerning how we should live and what brings success. According to the Bible, wisdom is God’s answers and solutions to our problems. Wisdom is more precious than any amount of money or our individual appetites and desires in life. If one wants happiness, fulfillment and unity, wisdom is important. Wisdom helps us in all facets of our lives; making decisions, sustaining success and reinforcing good relationships.
Solomon also gave us nuggets of wisdom (Try reading and studying the entire book of Proverbs) regarding leading a successful life. Here are his four steps to a successful life:
- Begin with counsel: Counsel is the faculty of forming plans and an instrument to execute a purpose. It will ensure success.
- Listen for sound wisdom: As you listen to counselors, discern the sound advice over the noise. Sound wisdom is intended to “LIFT” you up.
- Gain understanding: Understanding is the art of learning. It is a specialty skill and intellect. (Even for some of us with an average IQ)
- Demonstrate a strength in your decision: You started by gathering counsel. As you listened, you gained wisdom. Once you understand, you are strengthened to succeed.
Recently, we talked about experiences in life and the value of those experiences in making good decisions for our lives. Are you having quality experiences that allow you to have empathy and understanding in life? Maybe if you knew what the other person was going through, you might make a different decision as to how you treated that person. Wisdom will help us in our ability to differentiate between good or bad by making excellent and decisive decisions from our own experience and knowledge gained.
I often see too many people in today’s society, that think they know-it-all and end up becoming cynical and insecure about their own life. They live in a world of “utopia,” (not the real world) where everything that they can imagine is perfect (including themselves) with their high standards. Others, however, think or imagine a society in which there is great suffering or injustice.(Dystopia) Do you remember those things in your control and those that are out of your control? Do those things IN your control by seeking wisdom, understanding, and do it with compassion. We all have issues so choose to look deep inside to see and experience your own destiny. Don’t drag others into your world if you are negative and can’t see the forest through the trees. (The BIG picture of why we are all here) Make it full of wisdom, courage, self-mastery and love. It will serve you well.
Elevator Guy
Quotes for the Day: “Knowledge is Light, Wisdom is Power.” Formerly in the Kearney, NE Junior High School Auditorium and now the Merryman Performing Arts Center “ &
“Knowledge is learning something every day. Wisdom is letting go of something every day.” Zen Proverb