Proverbs 2:1-11

Fourth of July weekend. U.S. day of independence. What a great country to be alive in. Looking around at the rest of the world and watching how many countries have struggled with self-government, I am amazed at the wisdom our forefathers had in setting up the foundation of our government. It is clear from the language of our constitution that our foundational charter was written in the fear of the Lord and hence with wisdom. But these men did not attain wisdom by simply praying all day and going to church whenever it convened; they were well educated men, philosophers and scholars; their wisdom began with true reverence to God, and was constantly supported by their faith, but was obtained by being citizens of the the world.

Solomon says that if we turn our ear to wisdom, apply our heart to understanding, cry aloud for understanding, and search for understanding, then we will find the knowledge of God. I find this to be a beautiful circle. So often we try to remove God from our daily realm of activities: I might see God at church, but when I re-enter the workforce on Monday, God is no longer a member of my activities. It is so easy to build up divisions between where God resides and is useful and where he is antiquated and a hindrance. But in this circular verse, we are told that if we begin the road of acquiring wisdom (which begins with a solemn relationship with God) then we find that we end again within God's knowledge. And the illusion is that in the circle of acquiring wisdom, of seeking understanding, we ever left God.

I continue my prayer for understanding. I cry out to God, let me tap into your wealth of knowledge and insight. Help me to tear down the barriers I established that separate me from the infinite. I hear your promise in Solomon's poem: For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. It is only within and through you that I can obtain the wisdom and knowledge necessary to successfully relate to the world I live in. I pray that I can be a conduit to my neighbors of your awesome gifts; that you will allow me to be a witness of your vast wisdom in communication, business, spirituality, relationships, stewardship; in all activities of our daily lives. Let me be a full member of your house as well as man's house. Let me truly see that there is no separation; that man's house is your house: your kingdom is here not elsewhere.

Peace