What does "buy wisdom" suggest?
What does "buy wisdom" imply about our priorities and investments in life?

Opening Verse

“Invest in truth and never sell it—in wisdom and instruction and understanding.” (Proverbs 23:23)


What “Buy” Really Means

• Scripture treats wisdom as a commodity so valuable that it is worth any price.

• “Buy” implies a conscious, decisive transaction—sacrifice something lesser to gain something greater (cf. Proverbs 4:7; 16:16).

• The command is not optional; it is an imperative that sets the pursuit of wisdom above all competing interests.


Why Wisdom Is Worth the Price

• Wisdom is “more precious than rubies; nothing you desire compares with her” (Proverbs 3:15).

• It secures God’s favor and protection (Proverbs 2:6-8).

• It leads to life and blessing (Proverbs 8:35).

• Without it, material gains are hollow and fleeting (Ecclesiastes 2:11; 1 Timothy 6:6-10).


Practical Ways to “Buy Wisdom” Today

• Reallocate time—schedule daily, unhurried study of God’s Word (Psalm 1:2).

• Invest resources—purchase solid study tools, attend sound teaching gatherings, support ministries that proclaim truth.

• Seek counsel—“walk with the wise and you will become wise” (Proverbs 13:20).

• Embrace correction—“listen to instruction and be wise” (Proverbs 19:20).

• Pray persistently—God “gives generously to all without reproach” (James 1:5).

• Practice obedience—wisdom grows when truth is applied (Matthew 7:24-25).


Evaluating Our Current Investments

• Bank statements reveal priorities; so do calendars. Do they show a greater outflow toward entertainment, image, or comfort than toward gaining God’s wisdom?

• Jesus’ parable of the pearl (Matthew 13:45-46) teaches that authentic disciples gladly liquidate lesser assets for supreme treasure.

• A wise steward consistently chooses eternal dividends over temporal returns (Matthew 6:19-21).


The Rewards Promised to the Wise

• Stability amid trials (Proverbs 24:3-4; James 3:17).

• Guidance that keeps us from destructive paths (Proverbs 2:12-15).

• Peace and joy that money cannot purchase (Proverbs 3:17).

• Eternal commendation—“those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens” (Daniel 12:3).

Buying wisdom, then, means treating God’s truth as non-negotiable, gladly exchanging lesser pursuits for knowledge, understanding, and a life shaped by His Word.

How does Proverbs 17:16 warn against pursuing wisdom without understanding its value?
Top of Page
Top of Page