Day 22: The Way of Wisdom

Day 22: The Way of Wisdom

Scripture Reading: Proverbs 9:1–12

Key Verse:

“Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment.” — Proverbs 9:10 (NLT)

Reflection

Wisdom doesn’t force herself on anyone, but she extends an open and gracious invitation. In this passage, Solomon presents wisdom as a noble woman preparing a feast, inviting the simple and those who lack understanding to join her table (vv. 1–6). It’s a beautiful picture of God’s generosity and His desire to fill our lives with purpose, clarity, and abundance.

Wisdom’s invitation is simple: leave your simple ways and walk in understanding (v. 6). But accepting her call requires humility. Solomon contrasts the responses of two types of people: the scoffer and the wise. The scoffer rejects correction and becomes defensive, while the wise person embraces instruction and grows (vv. 7–9). For leaders, this is a powerful reminder that wisdom begins with a teachable spirit.

At the heart of wisdom is reverence for God. Solomon reiterates that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (v. 10). This isn’t fear in the sense of terror but a deep respect and awe for God’s holiness, sovereignty, and love. When leaders ground their decisions in this reverence, they gain clarity and insight that shapes their actions and relationships.

The way of wisdom leads to life, while rejecting wisdom leads to harm and regret (vv. 11–12). As leaders, walking in wisdom isn’t just about avoiding mistakes—it’s about embracing God’s design for flourishing and leading others to do the same.

Word Study: Beginning (רֵאשִׁית, reshit)

The Hebrew word reshit means “first, beginning, or chief.” It signifies not only the starting point but also the foundation on which everything else is built.

For leaders, reshit emphasizes that wisdom starts with a reverent relationship with God. Without this foundation, even the best strategies and decisions will lack true insight and purpose.

Challenge

Reflect on how you’re responding to wisdom’s invitation.

1. Are you approaching life and leadership with a teachable spirit, or have you resisted correction?

2. How can you more fully embrace the fear of the Lord as the foundation of your decisions?

Write down one area where you need to grow in humility and openness to correction. Commit to seeking wisdom in that area this week, whether through prayer, Scripture, or seeking godly counsel.

Leadership in Action

Consider how your leadership reflects wisdom’s invitation.

• Are you modeling a teachable spirit and humility for those you lead?

• How can you guide others to embrace wisdom’s path, even when it requires correction or change?

Take one intentional step this week to walk in wisdom as a leader. This might include addressing a mistake with humility, seeking advice, or encouraging your team to prioritize godly wisdom in their decisions.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for Your invitation to walk in wisdom and understanding. Teach me to fear You rightly and to build my life and leadership on the foundation of Your truth. Help me to embrace correction with humility and to grow in wisdom as I follow You. Guide me to lead others with clarity, grace, and reverence, reflecting the beauty of Your wisdom in all I do. Amen.