MAY 22

Ecclesiastes 7:11-12
Memorise Proverbs 9:10
“wisdom giveth life to them that have it”

Prior to this, most of the mentions of wisdom that Solomon had made were with regards to worldly wisdom – that of human intellect and understanding. Though he did commend such wisdom, he also decried the extent of its use, for oftentimes if this wisdom was applied wrongly, or indiscriminately pursued, it would only lead to vanity and vexation of the spirit. However, now as we come to Ecclesiastes 7, we realise that the wisdom that Solomon now speaks of, is not the human wisdom that he spoke of earlier. This wisdom here is described as one that gives profit to them that can look beyond the things of the earth, and contemplate the higher things in life, for he is able to ‘see the sun’. Therefore wisdom here is exalted, and seen as one that gives a good life to them that truly have life – that is a follower of God. And so this wisdom is commended, for it would be most useful to one who has gained an inheritance (referring to physical, material wealth), for both wisdom and money are seen in a positive light. One who is armed with a right understanding and perspective in life will be able to best know how to use his wisdom and also his wealth, and they will be as a defence to him. This gives us a balanced view of wealth and riches, for it should not be categorically viewed as a negative thing. Money used wisely for the right reasons can be harnessed for good. Yet above all, wisdom is the very best thing, and is the prerequisite that we all must seek for in order to live this life well.

Dear teen, do you know what the difference is between godly wisdom and the worldly wisdom? As Christians, we must constantly seek after godly wisdom, the sort of wisdom which Solomon says begins with the fear of the Lord. When we have such godly wisdom, then the decisions that we make will be in line with God’s will, and will be pleasing in His sight. The lives that we live, and even the thoughts that we have will be godly. Is this what you desire?

Thought: There is a world of difference between wisdom of God and wisdom of the world.
Prayer: Lord, may You place in me the desire to seek after godly wisdom.