King Solomon combined WISDOM and DISCIPLINE in his Proverbs writings. In fact, he advised us to not despise them or treat them with contempt. It intrigues me to question the close linkage between wisdom and discipline. Quite thought-provoking.

My first analysis brings three Biblical declarations:

• The heart of man is deceitful and wicked (Jeremiah 17:9).
• Fools despise wisdom and discipline (Proverbs 1:7).
• The law of the Lord is wise, making wise the simple (Psalm 19:7).

Therefore, our natural inclination is to reject wisdom and think it is unworthy of our consideration. In other words, it is more natural for people to not seek wisdom and hate any form of discipline, partially because people think they already know best. 

Based on King Solomon’s life, wisdom is a gift from God. Solomon did not ask for gold, silver, or kingdoms; he asked for wisdom. Then, what is wisdom? Here are some snippets from my faith journey.

Wisdom has to do with how we live on earth. However, it is not related to a college degree; it is not just information or knowledge. Wisdom is the art of living skillfully. It encompasses every matter every day. Consequently, the way we think and respond to God is the most important and practical thing we do. God created us. In grace, He has revealed His heart and desires in His Word. They can be called His directions, signposts, life-maps, manual words for living.

To become wise, then, we must first desire to be wise as revealed by God who created life. We then can understand what life means and its purpose. At this stage of our lives, we can choose to look at life through the lenses of God’s wisdom and perspective. In reality, we then can LIVE WELL.

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