The Principal Thing
Proverbs 4:7
Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all your getting get understanding.


I. IF WE CONSIDER MAN'S SPIRITUAL STATE IN THE SIGHT OF GOD.

II. IF WE CONSIDER MAN'S PRESENT HAPPINESS. The true happiness of man has its foundation in wisdom. I go on the supposition of Christ that a "man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things he possesseth." Happiness depends on the state of the mind. It is religion only which enlightens the understanding, which influences the heart, and which brings into the favour of high heaven. Man cannot be happy, because he is subject to passions and tempers which perplex and disturb him.

1. Religion brings us into a state of mind which is calculated to make us happy.

2. It gives a blessing to all around, and inspires contentment in every state.

III. IF WE CONSIDER THE IMPERISHABLE NATURE OF THIS BLESSING. True religion accompanies us in life; it lives with us in death; it goes with us into eternity.

IV. IF WE CONSIDER ITS SOVEREIGN AND PECULIAR INFLUENCE IN IMPROVING THE WORLD. This true wisdom shall one day produce such a change that heaven shall come down to earth and dwell among men.

(J. Stewart.)



Parallel Verses
KJV: Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.

WEB: Wisdom is supreme. Get wisdom. Yes, though it costs all your possessions, get understanding.




The Principal Thing
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