Proverbs 16:16

The book of Proverbs gives us a lot of instruction on a lot of different subjects. One subject that can keep us in God’s wisdom is Godly Follower-ship. Who we follow; where we follow; how we follow are all spoken about in Proverbs. Here is one of them about getting wisdom:

Proverbs 16:16 (ESV)

How much better to get wisdom than gold!

To get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.

The theme in this proverb runs through out the book of Proverbs.   The comparison for wisdom and understanding to silver and gold must seem like a natural comparison.   We so value the material.   We think if our vaults were filled with it, we would be more secure and less filled with conflict.  Yet, Scripture continues to teach us that to have wisdom and understanding it is better than to have a wallet filled with limitless credit cards.   Solomon had both of these things.  Because he chose wisdom and not riches God gave him the riches he didn't ask for and the wisdom of how to handle the gold and silver God laid at his feet.   Wisdom is eternal.  It was here in the beginning and will be here in the end; because wisdom IS God ... Christ is Wisdom.  So, our being filled with the Spirit produces practical wisdom in our lives that allows us to handle the temptation and the allure of gold and silver.   One is valuable.   The other helps us to understand and appreciate the other without being sucked into the vortex of material things.   Wisdom and understanding are far better.  And Wisdom is a gift.  It is available to to those who ask.   We need to rejoice in the fact that God provides Wisdom to those who seek it by faith.    Solomon sought it by faith.  When asked what he wanted (he could have anything), he asked God to give him wisdom and he believed that that wisdom, in turn, would be all he needed.  It was available and he received it when he asked.