How can we prioritize "wisdom" as "the principal thing" in our daily lives? Wisdom: The Principal Thing Proverbs 4:7: “Wisdom is supreme; so acquire wisdom. And whatever you may acquire, gain understanding.” What Makes Wisdom ‘Supreme’ • Wisdom flows from the fear of the LORD (Proverbs 9:10). • Wisdom guards from sin’s traps and leads to life (Proverbs 2:6-12). • Wisdom equips for every decision, large or small (James 1:5). Starting Every Day with Wisdom • Open Scripture first, before news or messages (Psalm 119:105). • Read a portion of Proverbs daily—31 chapters fit the calendar. • Pray for insight and expect God to give it generously (James 1:5). Letting Scripture Shape the Inner Conversation • Memorize key verses; rehearse them while driving or walking (Psalm 1:2). • Write one proverb on a card or phone background each week. • Speak truth aloud when confronted with temptation (Matthew 4:4). Choosing Voices that Amplify Wisdom • Select music, podcasts, and books that honor God’s perspective (Colossians 3:16). • Seek counsel from mature believers rather than crowd opinion (Proverbs 13:20). • Limit media that mocks righteousness or glorifies folly (Psalm 101:3). Practicing Wisdom in Relationships • Listen before speaking; reply with grace seasoned by truth (Proverbs 18:13, Ephesians 4:29). • Forgive quickly, recalling Christ’s forgiveness (Colossians 3:13). • Encourage others toward godly choices, becoming “iron that sharpens iron” (Proverbs 27:17). Filtering Every Decision Through Wisdom’s Lens • Ask, “Does this align with clear Scripture?” (Psalm 119:11). • Consider eternal impact, not just immediate gain (2 Corinthians 4:18). • Seek peace from the Spirit when the path is right (Philippians 4:6-7). Guarding the Heart All Day Long • Set visual or phone reminders of a chosen verse (Proverbs 4:23). • Practice gratitude; a thankful heart resists foolish impulses (1 Thessalonians 5:18). • End the day reviewing choices, confessing missteps, and noting God’s faithfulness (1 John 1:9). Celebrating Wisdom’s Fruit • Notice growing discernment and give God praise (Psalm 92:4). • Share testimonies of wise choices with family and friends (Psalm 34:3). • Stay humble, remembering that true wisdom always points back to Christ, “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:3). |
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