The proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel: to acquire wisdom and discipline; to understand the words of insight … Proverbs 1:1-2, TLV (Emphasis Mine)
The Apprentice of Wisdom. Happy May! It’s a new month and I was thinking, just a few months ago many of us were making New Year’s Resolutions. How are you doing with that? Honestly, it’s been years since I made resolutions. Why? I think you probably know.
Here’s a resolution that can change our life — how we live in this world and how we relate to others. But, most importantly, it brings us closer to our Heavenly Father, His Son, and His Holy Spirit.
Now that I’ve built up this amazing “resolution” are you ready? It’s reading a chapter of proverbs each day and living its wisdom for the rest of your life.
Hmm.
Are you feeling a bit disappointed that it’s not the latest self-improvement book by a wealthy, famous person? (Unless you count King Solomon.)
Many of us have read through the Bible multiple times. We’ve read 
through Proverbs. Perhaps even did a study of these wisdom chapters. However, for those life-changing moments to happen we need to change how we view “studying.”
Tools For Life
If someone bought us a well-stocked tool chest, we might have visions of grandeur to become a great carpenter or handy person. We might even recognize a few of the tools, but do we know them well enough to use? It’s the same with wisdom.
For most of us, figuring out the right tool for the right job can be difficult. Fortunately, our Father’s Son was a carpenter and He’ll demonstrate how. His life and teachings are a master class in practical wisdom. We’re wisdom apprentices. Learning by trying — and even by making mistakes.
How Do We Begin?
When I first began this journey twenty years ago, I was overwhelmed with the wealth of information in Proverbs. How could I remember everything I read each day? But we don’t have to figure it all out in one day — or week, or month, or year! We simply listen to what He’s telling us for THIS day.
Here’s how Father showed me how to begin my apprenticeship.
- Begin by praying that the LORD will show us what He wants to give us for today. Sometimes, my prayer is simply: Okay, Father, whatcha got?
- Next, read through the whole chapter for that day. If something catches our heart, make a note, but continue reading until the end of the chapter.
- Now, go back to the verse or verses that caused us to pause. Inquire of the LORD to show us why. To see if He brings up a memory or a picture or a strong emotion.
- Examine our heart — not others’ problems. If the proverb stings a little — or maybe a lot — excellent! Because that means the Holy Spirit is at work.
- Journaling — it’s not mandatory to write out our thoughts, but as an internal processor I can’t imagine not. For others who are external processors, find a trustworthy friend.
- Share with a friend. Whether an internal or external processor, discussing or sharing with friends writes these truths deeper into my heart.
- It’s a journey. We are on a journey. A journey of faith, as well as wisdom. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but it does happen as we regularly pursue His wisdom.
Some of you have been on Wisdom’s Journey with me for several
years. For some, this might be your first day. Know that each day together with the LORD is an adventure and breakthrough. In the meantime, stay tuned. I will post each day — LORD willing — a blog of my journey for that day. That moment. Then, I’ll wait to “hear” from you and what He has shown you. Are you excited? I sure am.
Think More About It
Are you excited? Resigned? Hopeful? Is this a new concept? One you live each day? Or are you ready to return to the journey?
Just know, whatever category you fall into, it’s never too late to make a difference in your life and in the life of those you love.
Until tomorrow, may we acquire wisdom — everyday — my friends.
Did you know that God has instructed us to pray for Israel—Jerusalem?
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem—
“May those who love you be at peace!
May there be shalom [peace] within your walls—
quietness within your palaces.”
For the sake of my brothers and friends,
I now say: “Shalom be within you.”
For the sake of the House of ADONAI [the LORD] our God,
I will seek your good. Psalm 122:6-9, TLV
Thanks for those prayers! God bless you!
