The LORD Gives Wisdom
My child, if you accept my words and
treasure up my commandments within you, making your ear attentive to wisdom and
inclining your heart to understanding; if you indeed cry out for insight, and
raise your voice for understanding; if you seek it like silver, and search for
it as for hidden treasures – then you will understand the fear of the LORD and
find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come
knowledge and understanding; he stores up sound wisdom for the upright; he is a
shield to those who walk blamelessly, guarding the paths of justice and
preserving the way of his faithful ones. Then you will understand righteousness
and justice and equity, every good path;
Profitable Bible study involves more
than just opening to a chapter and reading what is there. There are actually
seven guidelines to help make the most of your study of the Bible. Set aside a
regular time, unless you schedule it – it won’t happen. Before you start
reading, ask God for help and understanding. Carefully think about what you are
reading. Not all of the Bible’s treasures lie like pebbles on the surface. To
mine the gold, you have to dig. Seek to understand
what was being said to the first people who read the book or letter before you
decide how to apply it today. Write down at least one truth or principle you
can put into practice. Try different translations of the Bible. If you find
yourself skimming over familiar words, a new translation may focus your mind on
the passage in a new way. Don’t get discouraged. Some parts of the Bible are
more interesting than others, and some you may not understand at all. But there is enough that you can understand, and it will
revolutionize your life if you apply it. Now read today’s verses again
with these principles in mind.
Our Daily
Bread –