Growing up, I liked how the adults in my house sounded. Whenever a proverb was shared, I never let it go, I interrogated it. The proverbs sound so logical and intriguing, and it’s like English for the mathematically minded. I have grown up to crave wisdom, and as directed then, the book of Proverbs has been a well of rich insight that I fetch from time to time. If you are interested in becoming wiser, a chapter of proverbs daily and maybe twice once or twice a month will make you complete proverbs in about a month and 12 times each year.
1. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). Acknowledging God’s sovereignty and living in obedience to Him is the foundation of true wisdom. People who don’t acknowledge God or live in reverence of Him will make careless decisions and costly mistakes
2. “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1). Responding calmly and kindly in difficult situations can de-escalate the conflict. Make up your mind that your responses will be gentle even if you are offended.
3. The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit” (Proverbs 18:21). Our words have tremendous power, and we should be careful to use them to build others up rather than tear them down. Make up your mind to only speak words that edify. Those who curse others demonstrate their lack of faith in the power of their words and inadvertently weaken the power of their tongue.
4. “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm” (Proverbs 13:20). The people we choose to spend time with can significantly impact our wisdom and character. Choose your friends and associates wisely, and spend time with people to either grow or grow them.
5. A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold” (Proverbs 22:1). Building a reputation for integrity and honour is more valuable than any material wealth. You intentionally build your reputation one day at a time, one person at a time. If it fails, start from scratch and build.
6. “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice” (Proverbs 12:15). We can learn a great deal from seeking out the wisdom and counsel of others. Never be an island and sole decision-maker. Seek counsel; it’s wise to do so, no matter how stupid it makes you look in the short term.
7. “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil” (Proverbs 3:7). Pride and arrogance can blind us to the truth and hinder our ability to gain wisdom. There is nothing you have that you were not given, even if you think you are wise, deeply understand that it’s God’s doing and it’s not something you own. This perspective will keep you humble and good.
8. “A man who remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will suddenly be destroyed—without remedy” (Proverbs 29:1). Refusing to learn from our mistakes and make changes can have serious consequences. Don’t be afraid to change what you have gotten feedback on a number of times. Those who refuse to bend end up breaking.
9. “The wicked flee though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion” (Proverbs 28:1). Living with integrity and doing what is right gives us confidence and courage. Do all you do like you are doing them in daylight under the scrutiny of all. That way, you have no reason to hide and run.
10. “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans” (Proverbs 16:3). Trusting in God and seeking His guidance is key to making wise decisions and finding success in life. In the process of committing and uploading our works to God, we download the thoughts and ideas to help us bring them to pass. All you need to do is commit to God, and God will give you the ideas to bring those works to pass.
Practice this and watch your wisdom take a leap.
