Proverbs 8:1-9

The Excellence Of Wisdom
Does not wisdom cry out,
And understanding lift up her voice?
She takes her stand on the top of the high hill,
Beside the way, where the paths meet.
She cries out by the gates, at the entry of the city,
At the entrance of the doors:
“To you, O men, I call,
And my voice is to the sons of men.
O you simple ones, understand prudence,
And you fools, be of an understanding heart.
Listen, for I will speak of excellent things,
And from the opening of my lips will come right things;
For my mouth will speak truth;
Wickedness is an abomination to my lips.
All the words of my mouth are with righteousness;
Nothing crooked or perverse is in them.
They are all plain to him who understands,
And right to those who find knowledge.

Devotional

The openness and public exposure of wisdom contrasts with the secrecy and intrigues of wicked adulterers. The purpose is to impart discernment to the naive and the ignorant. The root of “simple” is a word meaning “unopen door,” an apt description of the undiscerning, who do not know what to keep in or out of their minds. To make one ponder before sinning, thus to make a responsible choice.

The virtues of wisdom are summarized in all that is excellent, right, true, and righteous. The one who applies his mind to the wisdom of God will understand and gain moral knowledge and the insight to recognize truth.

Father, teach me Your ways of wisdom. Wisdom is pure, peace loving, considerate, full of mercy, and impartial. Bring wise people into my life and help me to be open to their wisdom and honesty. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.