Proverbs 2 – The Case for Wisdom

The NIV titles this chapter, “Moral Benefits of Wisdom.” This seems to be an understatement to me. This chapter sounds like an introduction. Something along the lines of, “Hey, we are going to tell you some stuff about wisdom soon. Here is why you should think it’s important and listen.” While I do think that it some of the intention here, I believe there is so much more.

I don’t know about you, but it always seemed to me that the bible repeats itself a lot. Like the writers of old just had to beat every topic to death before moving on.  But, you also have to wonder if there wasn’t a purpose for this. The first part of this chapter seems to repeat itself to establish a commitment to its statements. I believe the intention is to state the importance our desire or passion for Him.

“1…store up my commands within you”. Clearly this means that we need to be aware of what he is saying. Know the Word. Know and remember what he has commanded. This requires time and shows dedication. Most people have to study something before they really know the information. It is no enough to memorize words, you must understand the purpose behind them.

The next three verses are about desire. They say things like “…apply your heart to understanding”, “Call out for insight”, “cry aloud for understanding”, “look for it as for silver”, “search for it as for hidden treasure”. What do these all have in common? They express a longing, a desperation to acquire something. If I said, “The man cried aloud from hunger”, what would you infer about his state of being. Hopefully you would say that he is hungry. That he hasn’t eaten in so long that his body hurts to the point of crying out. That seems pretty intense to me. That is what is being said here. If we are to receive wisdom, and for that matter any understanding of the Lord, then we must want it. I mean really want it. More than anything else. Our hearts must groan for Him and His word. God wants followers who want Him. He is not here to fulfil your convenience. He wants someone who will fight to find Him. Who will push and search and go to any length just to know Him. Think about your favorite bible stories. Those who the Lord blessed searched for Him.

Doesn’t it make sense though? Wouldn’t you want someone to pursue you radically, or would you prefer someone who just didn’t mind you being around? Have you ever dated someone or had a friend that really didn’t ask to spend time with you. When you call them they say, “Sure I’m free. What do you want to do?” But do they ever call you? No. How did that make you feel? If you’re like me, it made you feel like a real loser. You either start to believe that you are no good, or you just stop spending time with that person. Now, to be clear, God will always be there for you, but if you aren’t really interested in Him, do you really think He will come knocking at your door? Do you? I am willing to accept the idea that maybe God eventually lets people go the path they want to go.

So back to Proverbs. The first part is clear. If you want wisdom, you must strive for it. If you want insight and understanding into the world around you then pursue Him. He is the only one who can give it.

So, to sum it all up, God has gifts for you. He wants to reward you and bless you like any king and father would, but more than that He wants you. He wants to know you, to be with you, to commune with you. God is a jealous God and He wants people who are devoted to Him. In fact, He demands it, and He is the only one who actually deserves this reverence. So seek Him friends. Do whatever it takes to find Him. Do not stop until you are sitting at His feet in the throne room. And when you are finally there, learn everything you can and share it with others.