Because of the fact that the word "WISDOM" is embedded in today's message, this certainly suggests that its impact or function is incomplete outside of its essential elements. Furthermore, it is a word whereby its meaning lends itself to varying sources, opinions and Interpretations. Of course, the Bible itself, or the Word of God teaches us: "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16-17). In other words, the scriptures, or the very words contained in YOUR Bible (and my Bible for that matter) are "God breathed". Consequently, what better source is there that is so readily available and accessible for the study, knowledge and application of the Truth? Well, there is no better source. If God said it, I believe it and that settles it.
It was God's decision, exclusively, to inspire Holy men of God to write, disseminate and unveil the very words emanating from the mouth of God. Now, and without deviating from the context of the subject-matter concerning the origin of Wisdom, the Author of Wisdom himself teaches us the following principle: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding." (Proverbs 9:10). The Creator God himself is Wisdom personified. So, that reality has resulted in our referring to this brand of Wisdom as "Godly Wisdom".
It is obligatory, and thus it behooves me to reference and report that, The Only Begotten Son of God (John 3:16-17) and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, is so aptly exalted as we read in the following passage: "But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God." (1 Corinthians 1:23-24).
As we make our entrance into the book of Wisdom; more specifically, the Proverbs of Solomon, a brief examination with respect to the merits of its meaning should suffice. And being particularly intentional and mindful of this effort from a biblical perspective. Otherwise, this entire campaign translates into mere fruitlessness. All that being said, the very first book of Proverbs provides insight in this regard: "To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding; To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity;" (Proverbs 1:2-3). With the Lord's direction and expressions of thanksgiving, honor and humility, the Word of God teaches us that "WISDOM" is tantamount to right living, or living skillfully.
Neither should we neglect nor error concerning this fact, but rather understand and live our lives in light of the knowledge of the fact, that the Fear of God is the controlling principle of Wisdom: "And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh. Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil." (Ecclesiastes 12:12-14).
In the remarkable and memorable story of Joseph (Genesis 37-50), who was the eleventh son of Jacob, it could have easily been cast as a Hollywood movie in modern times and based on this timeless principle of the Fear of God. And one that accurately and dramatically depicted both the events and circumstances accordingly. Joseph was hated by his brothers, deposited in a pit, sold into slavery, lied about, harassed, incarcerated and forgotten about. However, his unshakeable fortitude and faithfulness served him well, because the object of his faithfulness was God. And over the course of time, Joseph was blessed used by God: at the age of 17 he was thrown into a pit. At age of 30, Joseph stood as ruler over all of the land of Egypt, and only second in command to the Pharaoh of Egypt.
By adding perseverance to his resume, Joseph was literally unstoppable. And as we know as Joseph knew, it was God, and only God (God doesn't need our help) that lifted Joseph above the turbulent waters of adversity. The fact that God's providential care of Joseph not only breathed life into his capacity to persevere and thrive, and in the midst of the raging and unpredictable ruckus bearing down on him. For those of you who have not had the occasion to peruse the Joseph story, I would highly recommend that you seize the opportunity to do so. Even if it's been a while since you have done so.
Now such trials and troubles gave rise to a brand of fear that we've all been subject to, and to some extent, during one season or another. But in and through it all, this results-oriented man of God Most High capitalized upon that burst of light that illuminated his path, and guided him over the course of his God ordained journey. What I genuinely love about this story is that, on at least three separate and distinct occasions we read: "And the Lord was with Joseph". Below, and now in his new role as ruler in the land of Egypt, Joseph is now a stranger to his brothers. Though it has been 17 years, Joseph knows and recognizes them.
He now has the authority to determine their fate. "And Joseph said unto them the third day, This do, and live; for I fear God:" (Genesis 42:18). Joseph's statement mirrored his actions as he demonstrated his "fear" of, and his love for God. And thus Joseph's compassion for his brothers affirms this and sends the resounding message: humility is borne out of godly wisdom and servanthood. Moses offers us this assurance: "And now, Israel, what doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, To keep the commandments of the Lord, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good?" (Deuteronomy 10:12-13).
In the final analysis, God Almighty blessed Joseph exceedingly abundantly and Joseph responded by being a blessing to others. Not only was Joseph fearless, but he was faithful and his heart was infused with the Fear of God! Assuredly this was a reflection of his impeccable character, a will inspired and empowered by the will of God and governed by the Wisdom of God. "And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding. "By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, and honour, and life." (Job 28:8; Proverbs 22:4).
The Psalmist reminds us to remember, and to never forget that our souls are products of an all knowing and all seeing God. And a God who loves us with an everlasting love. Those of us who have come to know this God that Joseph knew, and through His son and our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ are blessed with the gift of grace as we strive to persevere in this gloriousness and the richness of holiness: "I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well" (Psalm 139:14).
"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever." (Psalm 23).
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