Proverbs

Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not. For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favor of the LORD – Proverbs 8:33,35

We all have difficulty at times receiving instruction. But the instruction that the writer here speaks of is the godly way of true wisdom. Therefore, it is linked inseparably to the pleasure of God.

The writer observes elsewhere that the way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that listens to counsel is wise (12:15). While it is our natural tendency to become defensive when counsel is offered for our life, it is only the fool who convinces himself that his own ideas are always best.

For this reason, we are urged to hear instruction. Don’t just listen to it, but hear it! Apply it, don’t refuse it, put it into practice in your life — be wise.

Wisdom, then, is not knowing all the answers yourself, but hearing and implementing the wise and faithful counsel of God’s Word. The one who finds genuine wisdom is walking in the favor of the Lord. Is your life pleasing to the Lord? Are you listening and submitting to God’s Word? Or are you refusing God’s perfect and favorable ways for the foolishness of your own philosophy, ambition, and desire?

The one who finds wisdom finds life. The abundant, free, joyful life is only found in the favor of our Creator.