March 3 – A Kingdom Pursuit (Proverbs 3:13-18)

“Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold.”(Proverbs 3:13-14)

IN WORD:
Solomon speaks from experience. One night early in his reign, God appeared to Solomon and asked him what divine favor he would want. Solomon asked for wisdom and knowledge, and because his heart’s desire was not material but godly, God gave it all: wisdom & knowledge, plus riches, honor, victory, and more. When Solomon says wisdom and understanding are more profitable than silver and gold, he knows. This is not hypothetical, and it is not simply to impress others with his godliness. It is truth based on real life.
In a sense, we have the same choice available to us. No, God hasn’t appeared to us in the dark of night to ask us what favor we would seek. But we do choose what things in life we will pursue. Do we value understanding more than wealth? If so, we are in the minority. Most people believe more money is the key to more happiness. More money means — in theory only — less work, more vacation time, more time-saving technology, hired help, more conveniences, more luxury. The opposite is actually true. More money means more maintenance, more details, more uncertain investments, more to manage, more headaches. Understanding, however, has the opposite dynamic. More is better. Always.

IN DEED:
Isn’t the choice God presents Solomon with remarkably similar to what Jesus taught His disciples? “Seek first [God’s] kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33). Solomon sought a kingdom commodity, and all the rest was added. We would be fools not to seek the same agreement with our Lord. He offers it; why would we not accept it? Examine the things you pursue. Make sure they are ultimately worth it.

“There is a deep wisdom inaccessible to the wise and prudent, but disclosed to the babes.” -Christopher Bryant-