In what ways can we cultivate wisdom to gain favor as in Proverbs 14:35? The Verse at a Glance “A king delights in a wise servant, but his wrath falls on a disgraceful one.” (Proverbs 14:35) Why Wisdom Wins Favor • Wisdom reflects God’s character (Proverbs 8:35) • Wisdom blesses everyone it touches (Proverbs 3:17) • Wisdom enables a servant to discern the king’s purposes and advance them (Genesis 41:38-40; Daniel 6:3) Cultivating Wisdom Day-by-Day • Reverence the Lord first – “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.” (Proverbs 9:10) • Stay immersed in Scripture – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) • Ask God directly – “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously… and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5) • Walk with the wise – “He who walks with the wise will become wise.” (Proverbs 13:20) • Embrace correction – “Whoever heeds correction is prudent.” (Proverbs 15:5) • Practice integrity in small tasks – “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.” (Luke 16:10) Habits That Signal Wisdom to Those in Authority • Diligence: finishing work promptly and thoroughly (Proverbs 22:29) • Discernment: offering solutions, not just spotting problems (Genesis 41:33-36) • Restraint in speech: speaking only what builds up (Proverbs 17:27-28) • Humility: serving without self-promotion (Philippians 2:3-4) • Faithfulness: being dependable when no one is watching (Colossians 3:23-24) Outcomes Promised in Scripture • Favor with God and people (Proverbs 3:3-4) • Promotion and honor (Proverbs 4:7-8) • A fruitful, peace-filled life (James 3:17) |
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