Why the wise are better off

In a previous conversation Solomon pointed out to us that one of the benefits of wisdom is success. Now, in 2:9-11, he cites several more good things that will happen to those who embrace wisdom. 
First, they will understand the difference between right and wrong (v. 9). At the very heart of life is the moral obligation to do what we understand to be just and fair. Wisdom encourages us to be sensitive to this “oughtness” in life, which, in turn, helps to keep us on the path that leads to happiness. 
       Secondly, we discover that wisdom is not merely external guidance, but it is something that will “enter your heart” (v. 10). It helps one develop what in recent years is called emotional intelligence (EQ), the ability to recognize and manage one’s emotions as a help in problem solving. To know something intellectually is helpful, but when wisdom “enters the heart” it is far more likely that something will be done about it. It is when information is internalized that we have the necessary stimulus for change. 
       A third result pointed out by Solomon is that when information is made relevant by personal involvement, the person discovers that it is “pleasant to one’s soul” (v. 10). It is unfortunate, but true, that in my own case the discovery of how exciting learning could be took place after, not before, my college education. Like it is to so many, learning was a bit of a chore instead of what it really is, a unique and exhilarating experience. My grandmother, who taught in a one room rural school for over 40 years, was convinced that heaven was the joyful privilege of being able to learn without interruption forever. I’m inclined to think those who might ask how that could be, haven’t yet begun the wonderful journey.
       And finally, with the entrance of wisdom, “discretion will protect” and “understanding will guard” (v. 11). As in the days of Solomon, so also today, the most effective way to remain safe is to understand and be aware of what it is that threatens and what can be done about it. On a material level this runs all the way from taking a sharp knife away from the baby, to heading to the shelter as the tornado approaches. But there are other kinds of dangers as well, such as the danger of a toxic ideology, an unrestrained life-style, an uninformed world-view. In every case wisdom will warn you that there is danger down this road. It is the rebel mind that chooses to stride ahead ignoring the clear signs of danger. Wisdom is the close friend of all who prefer not to gamble with the one thing that cannot be replaced — time.