The concept of wisdom holds a significant place within the biblical narrative, serving as a guiding principle for righteous living and spiritual discernment. The admonition to keep wisdom is a recurring theme throughout the Scriptures, particularly in the wisdom literature, which includes books such as Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Job. This entry explores the biblical exhortation to seek, retain, and apply wisdom in one's life.

Definition and Importance

In the biblical context, wisdom is more than mere knowledge or intelligence; it is the application of divine truth to life. It involves understanding God's will and living in accordance with His commandments. The Hebrew word for wisdom, "chokmah," encompasses skill, insight, and moral understanding. Wisdom is portrayed as a treasure of immense value, essential for navigating the complexities of life and maintaining a relationship with God.

Biblical Exhortations

The Book of Proverbs is particularly rich in its admonitions to keep wisdom. Proverbs 4:5-7 states, "Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn from them. Do not forsake wisdom, and she will preserve you; love her, and she will guard you. Wisdom is supreme; therefore acquire wisdom. And whatever you may acquire, gain understanding." Here, wisdom is personified and depicted as a protective and guiding force, emphasizing its supreme importance.

Proverbs 3:13-18 further extols the virtues of wisdom: "Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who acquires understanding, for she is more profitable than silver, and her gain is better than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire compares with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. All her ways are pleasant, and all her paths are peaceful. She is a tree of life to those who embrace her, and those who lay hold of her are blessed."

The Source of Wisdom

The Bible consistently teaches that true wisdom originates from God. James 1:5 encourages believers to seek wisdom from the Lord: "Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." This verse underscores the accessibility of divine wisdom to those who earnestly seek it through prayer and faith.

The fear of the Lord is foundational to acquiring wisdom. Proverbs 9:10 declares, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." This reverential awe and respect for God is the starting point for a life characterized by wisdom.

Practical Application

The admonition to keep wisdom is not merely theoretical but has practical implications for daily living. Wisdom guides ethical decisions, promotes justice, and fosters peace. It is evident in the life of Solomon, who, when given the opportunity to ask for anything from God, chose wisdom to govern the people of Israel (1 Kings 3:9-12).

Moreover, wisdom is essential for discerning truth from falsehood, a critical skill in a world filled with competing ideologies and moral relativism. Ephesians 5:15-17 advises, "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is."

Conclusion

The biblical admonition to keep wisdom is a call to pursue a life aligned with God's truth and purposes. It is an invitation to seek divine guidance, embrace moral integrity, and cultivate a heart that treasures the eternal over the temporal. Through wisdom, believers are equipped to navigate the challenges of life with discernment and grace, reflecting the character of God in a world in need of His light.