Knowing God: The Path to Wisdom and Life

The journey of studying the Word of God is the pathway to deepen our knowledge of the God of the Word. As we grow closer to God, we become more like Him, and in turn, we acquire the wisdom and skills essential for a purposeful life of service.

The Fear of the Lord: The Beginning of Wisdom

Proverbs 9:10 reminds us that the fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One leads to genuine insight. Knowing God is a luxury and a necessity for a meaningful life. A.W. Tozer suggests that an erroneous or inadequate view of God affects our moral practices and inner attitudes, hindering us from experiencing spiritual power. If we only study doctrinal truths without genuinely knowing God, we miss the profound impact the Holy Spirit desires to bring to our lives.

The Essence of Idolatry and the Danger of Misleading Knowledge

Tozer also noted that idolatry emerges when we entertain unworthy thoughts about God. If we hold inaccurate notions about God, it can lead to spiritual deception. Thus, we must actively pursue a growing acquaintance with God so our understanding aligns with His true nature. Otherwise, even as Bible students, we might unknowingly fall into idolatry.

A Glimpse of the Holy and Righteous God

God’s holiness is a central theme in Proverbs (Proverbs 9:10; 30:3). The term “holy” signifies God’s absolute otherness and uniqueness. He is utterly different from anything else in existence. His holiness is not a mere absence of defilement; it is an active attribute that guides His perfect nature toward accomplishing His perfect will. God’s righteousness and justice are inseparable from His holiness, leading Him to hate sin while loving sinners.

Divine Sovereignty: The Foundation of Purpose

Proverbs underscore God’s sovereignty over all creation (Proverbs 16:4; 19:21). History is God’s story, and His wisdom extends to every aspect of existence. He creates everything for a purpose, orchestrates events, and guides the destinies of individuals and nations. Human responsibility remains intact alongside God’s sovereignty. He allows us to make choices, but in His divine wisdom, He ensures that His ultimate purposes are fulfilled.

The Encouragement of God’s Compassion

Proverbs emphasize God’s compassion for the poor and vulnerable. He shows particular concern for widows, orphans, and the needy (Proverbs 14:31; 22:2). God’s mercy extends to all, and we are called to reflect His heart by caring for those in need. Neglecting the poor insults God, while generosity toward them honors Him. God identifies with the poor and takes their cause as His own, promising to defend them against oppression.

The Wisdom of God: The Source of True Understanding

God’s wisdom is beyond human comprehension (Romans 11:34). His perfect understanding and planning are evident in the creation and the providential ordering of events. God’s wisdom offers direction and guidance to His people (Proverbs 2:6–7). As we trust in Christ and seek to walk in His ways, God graciously shares His wisdom with us. By humbly seeking His guidance through prayer, meditation on His Word, and wise counsel, we can confidently navigate life’s decisions and discern His perfect will.

In conclusion, our pursuit of knowing God is the key to acquiring true wisdom and living purposeful lives. His holiness, sovereignty, compassion, and wisdom reveal His character and guide us towards His perfect will. As we grow in our relationship with Him, we will gain a deeper understanding of His ways and experience the fulfillment and joy that comes from living skillfully in His love and grace.

~PW 🌮🛶