In this blog, I want to talk about the importance of wisdom in our lives. Proverbs 4:7 tells us, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” The book of Proverbs is best known for its wisdom and teaches us how to live in this world in accordance with the will of God. So what is wisdom? Wisdom is the correct application of knowledge. It is knowing what to do with what you have learned. I like to say it this way, Proverbs is full of wisdom, common sense, and practical advice for everyday living. There are many topics covered in Proverbs, so what I’d like to do is share a few of them with you that will help your life. With each topic, I’ll share a couple of verses and do so using the Message Bible. The Wisdom of Godly Character Proverbs 19:11 Smart people know how to hold their tongues; their grandeur is to forgive and forget. Proverbs 27:21 The purity of silver and gold is tested by putting them in the fire; the purity of human hearts is tested by giving them a little fame. Proverbs 28:13 – 14 You can’t whitewash your sins and get by with it; you find mercy by admitting and leaving them. A tenderhearted person lives a blessed life; a hardhearted person lives a hard life. Proverbs 29:23 Pride lands you flat on your face; humility prepares you for honors. The Wisdom of Spending, Generosity, and Giving Proverbs 17:18 It’s stupid to try to get something for nothing or run up huge bills you can never pay. Proverbs 3:9 Honor God with everything you own; give Him the first and the best. Proverbs 11:24 – 25 The world of the generous get larger and larger; the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller. The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed: those who help others are helped. The Importance and Power of our Words Proverbs 18: 20 – 21 Words satisfy the mind as much as fruit does the stomach; good talk is as gratifying as a good harvest. Words kill, words give life; they’re either poison or fruit- you choose. Proverbs 12:13 The gossip of bad people gets them in trouble; the conversation of good people keeps them out of it. Proverbs 12:18 Rash language cuts and maims, but there is healing in the words of the wise. Proverbs 12:25 Worry weighs us down; a cheerful word picks us up. The Wisdom of Parental Guidance and Child Training Proverbs 13: 24 A refusal to correct is a refusal to love; love your children by disciplining them. Proverbs 19:18 Discipline your children while you still have the chance; indulging them destroys them. Proverbs 22:6 Point your kinds in the right direction – when they’re old they won’t be lost. The Importance of Godly Leadership Proverbs 11:14 Without good direction people lose their way; the more wise counsel you follow, the better your chances. Proverbs 14:28 The mark of a good leader is loyal followers; leadership is nothing without a following. Proverbs 29:8 – 9 Leaders who know their business and care keep a sharp eye out for the shoddy and cheap, for who among us can be trusted to be always diligent and honest? Proverbs 20:28 Love and truth form a good leader; sound leadership is founded on loving integrity. One last bit of advice, make a chapter of Proverbs part of your daily reading and grow in wisdom. – Pastor Chris