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Ring of Truth provides 366 daily ‘proofs’ that the Bible is consistent throughout from Genesis to Revelation, and relevant for our lives today!
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Proverbs 3:13-15
Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her.
Here we see “Wisdom” personified as a woman.
In a world that seems to have become paranoid about the equality of the sexes, it is good to step back and consider how the Bible was written. Although written in a culture that treated women as chattels or mere objects, there are some amazing and profound examples of women-elevating events. Yes, Eve was deceived but so was Adam. We have seen God elevate Sarah and even Hagar, vindicate Naomi, Ruth and Esther, use Jael and Deborah and expose the failures of so many men.
Here we have “Wisdom” personified as a woman, and again as we shall see later in the chapter, a righteous woman is held in the highest esteem. For those of us who have read our Bibles, it is difficult to see the ‘problem’ that some people raise, suggesting the Bible denigrates women. I would respectfully suggest that is far from the truth.
However, I do not believe the writer is trying to suggest that women are wiser than men, anymore than we can assume the contrary. What Solomon is doing is trying to show how wonderful truth, righteousness, integrity and wisdom are, and as most of his readers would have been men, he addresses them in an idiom, which would catch their attention. Isn’t that the real reason why so many advertising commercials involve women today? Our adverts are undoubtedly exploiting women but that can’t be said of this.
Here, Solomon captivates his audience and then goes on to show that wisdom is better than any other form of wealth. No matter the medium of wealth or the symbol of success, wisdom is far superior. Wisdom is as superior to wealth as a relationship is superior to a possession or religion. Think about that.
Wealth can separate friends and relations, especially recently acquired wealth (and over Wills). Wisdom, on the other hand, makes people attractive, because with wisdom comes trust, truth, peace, love and friendship. As James says, “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” (James 1:5).
Therefore, seek wisdom. It’s beautiful.
Lastly, remember this – JESUS is wisdom. If you wish to be truly wise, get to know Jesus – for He is the Word of God and the Fount of ALL wisdom.
This is why we can sing –
You are beautiful beyond description,
Too marvellous for words.Too wonderful for comprehension,
Like nothing ever seen or heard.
Who can grasp Your infinite wisdom?
Who can fathom the depth of Your love?
You are beautiful beyond description,
Majesty enthroned above.
I stand; I stand in awe of YOU.
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