8-21-06 Proverbs 1:5

Proverbs 1:5 (KJ21)
A wise man will hear and will increase learning, and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsel

Proverbs 1:5 (NAS)
A wise man will hear and increase in learning, And a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel,

Proverbs 1:5 (NIVUS)
let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance—

Proverbs 1:5 (NLT)
Let those who are wise listen to these proverbs and become even wiser. And let those who understand receive guidance

Wisdom is not something that is spoken much of these days. For many years now, our society has been ruled by the concepts of "if it feels good, do it.", "do your own thing", or "look out for number 1". These are all very selfish ideas and are totally opposed to living your life guided by wisdom. Although living according to wisdom seems to have gone out of style, it is still the best way to live.

Wisdom is a difficult word to define. A man of wisdom is one who is shrewd, prudent, skillful, and ethical. He knows how to wisely administer his life and his business. He can be crafty and wily. He is usually well learned and is subtle in his actions. Although men of the world can have a form of wisdom, true wisdom only comes through the fear of the Lord. If you choose to live your life in fear of God, you will do what is right. Wisdom, which is open and honest, is exactly opposite to deception, which is closed and secretive.

If you are a wise man, you will hear and listen to the voice of wisdom, which comes from the Lord your God. When you understand what Adonai, the Most High God expects of you, you will quickly obey. Many may tell you that you are foolish to yield yourself to God, but you know that when you consent and agree to His will, you end up being happy and blessed. Wisdom adds to and increases you, whereas foolish ideas bring decrease and destruction.

If you are perceptive and discerning, you will be diligent to acquire godly counsel. You should seek good advice, which will help guide and direct you. Listening to what others have to say is a good measuring line, but it is not always the best way to go. However, receiving wise counsel from godly people, while you are bound closely to the Lord, will often lead you to the right decision. You will not be ruined or destroyed, but will live in the redemption that the Almighty created for you.