If the first couple of chapters of Proverbs are any indicator, then evidently Solomon was not an “under promise, over deliver” sort of guy. As he seeks to convince his son to hear instruction and not forsake teaching (1:8); as he tries to “sell” him on the value of calling out for “insight”, raising his voice for “understanding”, seeking for it like “silver”, and searching for it as for “hidden treasure”, he does so promising some pretty big “quids” for his son’s “pro quo”; some pretty significant payouts for his investment. Check this out:

You will understand the fear of the LORD
       and find the knowledge of God.

You will understand righteousness and justice
       and equity, every good path;

Discretion will watch over you,
       understanding will guard you,

So you will walk in the way of the good
       and keep to the paths of the righteous.

(Proverbs 2:5, 9, 11, 20 ESV)

Acquainted with the fear of the LORD, able to comprehend something of an incomprehensible God. Clarity on what is right, insight as to what is just. Able to recognize what is straight, confident in the ability to discern good paths from not so good paths. Possessing a prudence that preserves and a reasoning that renders safe. So much so, that there is a confidence that you will always travel down ways that are ultimately worth it and find your footing on roads which are always marked out by righteousness.

How’s them apples for some promises to claim? No under-promising there. Who wouldn’t want that?

And so, as I start this year’s journey through Proverbs over the next couple of months, I’m in. Ready to do some calling out for insight as I hear afresh Wisdom’s cry, ready to let her pour out her spirit on me and make her words known to me (1:20-23). Anticipating a refresher in the fear of the Lord and the ways of insight and understanding. Claiming the promises of building some muscle with a divine dynamic that has some pretty significant impact on daily decision making. Wanting to pick up as much as I can of what that the Lord is laying down.

For the LORD gives wisdom;
       from His mouth come knowledge and understanding;
He stores up sound wisdom for the upright;
       He is a shield to those who walk in integrity,
guarding the paths of justice
       and watching over the way of His saints.

(Proverbs 2:6-8 ESV)

Let Wisdom reign!

By His grace. For His glory.