Job 25-29

June 5

Job 25-29

What is wisdom worth? Not education, not knowledge, but wisdom. What is wisdom worth? Where is wisdom found? Job writes that though man can mine deep into the mountains and find all kinds of precious jewels, wisdom is not so easy to find. Wisdom is worth more than all the gems sought after with hard work and diligence, but it is elusive.

Job has maintained his innocence before God and humanity. He declares that his mouth has not spoken deceitfully. He claims he is righteous and that he has maintained his integrity. His friends, on the other hand, accuse him of wrong doing, even if he does not know what it is he has done wrong. Job feels like no one understands him. He longs for words of wisdom instead of words that slip off the tongue of men.

Job declares that only God knows the way to wisdom. As we look around our world, it is obvious there are some very smart people. There are researchers working in the medical field to discover cures to dreadful diseases. There are inventors creating new products or improving old products almost every day. Technology changes at an exponential rate. But where is wisdom, real wisdom. It is obvious as we look around our world that though intelligence is present, wisdom is lacking.

Job proclaimed to his friends; “The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding.” (Job 28:28, NIV) If the fear of the Lord is wisdom, no wonder it is in such short supply. Many people reject God and his wisdom. They think the words of scripture or antiquated and are not relevant to their lives. They live as the world directs them to live and disregard God, let alone do not fear Him. But rejection of God has its consequences. The lack of wisdom in our society is causing its foundation to crumble.

What can be done? Is there any hope? James writes; "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, NIV) God is the source of wisdom. It we walk in obedience to Him, we will find it. He is the one who gives us wisdom. We can be wise, even if we are not the most intelligent person. If we pursue wisdom through God as we pursue worldly riches, we will discover God’s direction for our lives and wisdom to maneuver through the challenges of this world.