The concept of responding to the call of wisdom is a recurring theme in the Bible, particularly in the wisdom literature of the Old Testament. Wisdom is personified and depicted as calling out to humanity, urging them to embrace understanding and live righteously. This entry explores the biblical portrayal of wisdom's call and the appropriate human response.

Wisdom's Call in Proverbs

The Book of Proverbs is central to understanding the call of wisdom. Proverbs 1:20-23 states, "Wisdom calls out in the street, she lifts her voice in the square; in the main concourse she cries aloud, at the city gates she makes her speech: 'How long, O simple ones, will you love your simple ways? How long will scoffers delight in their scorn and fools hate knowledge? If you had repented at my rebuke, then surely I would have poured out my spirit on you; I would have made my words known to you.'"

Here, wisdom is portrayed as a public figure, accessible to all, yet often ignored. The call is urgent and persistent, emphasizing the need for repentance and the promise of spiritual enlightenment for those who heed it.

The Fear of the Lord

A foundational aspect of responding to wisdom's call is the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 9:10 declares, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." This reverential fear is not about terror but about awe, respect, and submission to God's authority. It is the starting point for acquiring true wisdom and understanding.

The Rewards of Heeding Wisdom

The Bible outlines numerous rewards for those who respond to wisdom's call. Proverbs 3:13-18 describes the blessings 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."

These verses highlight the tangible and intangible benefits of wisdom, including prosperity, honor, peace, and life itself. Wisdom is depicted as a source of profound and lasting fulfillment.

Rejecting Wisdom's Call

Conversely, the Bible warns of the consequences of rejecting wisdom. Proverbs 1:24-31 warns, "Because you refused my call, and no one took my outstretched hand, because you neglected all my counsel, and wanted none of my correction, in turn I will mock your calamity; I will sneer when terror strikes you, when your dread comes like a storm, and your destruction like a whirlwind, when distress and anguish overwhelm you. Then they will call on me, but I will not answer; they will earnestly seek me, but will not find me. For they hated knowledge and chose not to fear the LORD."

This passage underscores the peril of ignoring wisdom, leading to calamity and divine silence in times of distress. It serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of heeding wisdom's call.

Wisdom in the New Testament

The New Testament continues the theme of wisdom, particularly through the teachings of Jesus Christ. In Matthew 7:24-27 , Jesus uses the parable of the wise and foolish builders to illustrate the importance of acting on His words: "Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house, yet it did not fall, because its foundation was on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not act on them is like a foolish man who built his house on sand."

Here, wisdom is equated with obedience to Christ's teachings, providing a stable foundation for life amidst trials.

Practical Application

Responding to the call of wisdom involves a commitment to seeking and applying God's truth in daily life. James 1:5 encourages believers, "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 assures believers that God is willing to impart wisdom to those who earnestly seek it through prayer and faith.

In summary, responding to the call of wisdom is a vital biblical principle that involves reverence for God, obedience to His Word, and a commitment to living a life that reflects His truth and righteousness.