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Day 8
Wisdom is better than jewels, and all that you may desire cannot compare with her.--Proverbs 8:11 It's hard to understand the practical nature of wisdom, or even adequately describe it. Yet, we know a wise person when we see one. They have an uncanny clarity about things, they are not easily ruffled by confusing choices, they seem to know what to do and how and when to do it. They have a 'settled-ness' about them even in the midst of chaos. Their heart is at peace in a way that gives peace to those around them. As the Russian saint St. Seraphim of Sarov once said, "acquire peace and thousands around you will find salvation." When we are in the presence of a wise person, we want what they have but are uncertain about how to achieve it. Interestingly, wisdom is not something we work to achieve. The only things standing between ourselves and wisdom are misplaced desire and a failure to ask. Wisdom is easily overlooked in the desire department because it is not packaged or showcased with flamboyance. Our misplaced desires seem much more attractive. We would prefer to pursue a job promotion, buy a new car, gather more information from the Internet, research tools and resources for reducing stress, see the latest Blockbuster movie, gain more money, status, or prestige. When we cast our glance away from these desires that can only partially fulfill us, we begin to glimpse shy wisdom waiting to be discovered on the back shelf. But she will only become a part of us when we ask God for her. In the very asking we open a place in our soul for wisdom to take up residence. When she moves in, our soul becomes as clear and still as a glass-like lake under morning sun, and we drop into our depth and find there, the heartbeat of God. O God, you promise to give wisdom liberally to all who ask for it. I am asking for her now. These meditations by Renee Miller first appeared at explorefaith.org Please use the share button at the top to share with friends and loved ones. Thanks!
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