“Then you will understand what is right and just and fair- every good path. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you.” (Prov. 2:9-11)

In Proverbs 2, God gives us very clear instruction on how to gain both godly wisdom, and reap the moral/spiritual benefits of it. Sometimes it helps me to see things in simplified lists, as it allows me to focus on practical application.

Actions we are to take (v1-4):

• Accept God’s words
• Store up His commands within you
• Turn your ear towards Him
• Apply what you understand from your heart
• Call out (ask Him!) for insight and understanding
• Diligently seek Him and search for His wisdom

Spiritual benefits we will reap (v5-8):

• We’ll understand the fear of the Lord
• We’ll find knowledge of God
• He will give us spiritual wisdom, knowledge, and understanding
• He will give us victory and guard our course
• He will shield and protect us

Furthermore, godly wisdom will (v12-22):

• Save us from the ways, seduction, complications, and consequences of sin
• Enable us to walk in goodness and righteousness
• Live in the land of the upright and blameless (a.k.a. salvation and eternal fellowship w/ God)

The “Actions” list above may seem too difficult to do on our own, because it is. The caveat to all of these things are that we do them with the help of the Holy Spirit, because we can’t fully do them on our own strength.

“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.” (John 14:26)

Our ability to follow God and be obedient to His Word, is done in partnership with the Holy Spirit. Remember, we are called to genuinely seek God first, and when we do, all the things He promises us will then be given (Mat. 6:33). We are to be dedicated and committed to seeking Him diligently (even when we don’t FEEL like it), and He will do the rest. If we fail to seek Him though, then we can’t expect to see the spiritual fruit, benefits, or promises that we read of throughout Scripture.

Heavenly Father, help us to do simply this: Seek You. With sincere, humble, and contrite hearts, let us chase after Jesus and the wisdom You have for us through the Holy Spirit, that we may live lives that glorify You and are called according to your purpose. Amen!

[From December 2, 2018]