Learning to Listen To Wisdom’s Words
Listening to wisdom is the key to success and safety. We learn through listening. We become skillful through listening, following instructions, and gaining expertise through practice.
When I was a college instructor, I re-discovered the truth that students whom people consider to be “smart” are mostly very committed listeners and followers of instruction. The habit of listening closely, as to be able to accurately represent what was said, is a talent for some, but something everyone can learn.
The wisdom listeners’ promise of living a “long, good life” is not only a spiritual promise, but a practical reality. The simple, wise admonition of “buckle your seat belt” has saved many lives in auto accidents. Ignoring that practical wisdom has also, sadly, resulted in injury and loss of life.
Wisdom is not simply listening to good suggestions. Living in the “House of Wisdom” is about enriching and saving our own lives, and the lives of others. We all know that life is full of obstacles. To these challenges, wisdom says, “When you walk, you won’t be held back; when you run, you won’t stumble.” We overcome obstacles, not because we had a wisdom “pep talk.” We overcome because wisdom provides the understanding, knowledge, and skill to rise above those obstacles through the grace of God through Christ.
When we take God’s wisdom seriously, Verse 13 takes on a new weight and meaning, “Take hold of my instructions; don’t let them go. Guard them, for they are the key to life.”

Reflection Question: What is God’s wisdom speaking to you right now?
