Shout for Joy
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In chapter 1 of Proverbs, 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 “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 as 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.
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AuthorRobert H Mounce Archives
January 2019
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