“For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the LORD. But whoever fails to find me harms himself; all who hate me love death.” (Proverbs 8:35-36)
Lady Wisdom concludes her 36-verse plea for our lifelong attention with these words. She won’t hide, but we must seek. And our search brings huge rewards. Those who find wisdom — those who live wisely by living life from God’s perspective — they find favor from God.
This favor comes in at least two flavors. On the one hand, living with Wisdom brings practical, natural rewards. People who don’t jump off cliffs are less likely to fall to their deaths. People who don’t tell lies are more likely to earn trust and closeness in relationships. The natural benefits of wise living are endless.
But God’s favor is supernatural as well. To seek out His wisdom — and live by it — is an act of humility. It’s saying, “I don’t know nearly enough on my own; I need God’s help; I need to understand God’s way.” He promises to lift up everyone who humbles him- or herself before Him in this way.
Think: Do you think it’s intolerant for Wisdom to say that hating her is the same as loving death? Is it true?
Pray: Ask God to help grow your appetite for His wisdom.
Do: Read Proverbs 11.