The Way of Wisdom [I]

"The reproofs of discipline are the way of life" -Proverbs 6:23b

It is true that the only way forward in wisdom is to begin with a proper reverence and awe of God (cf. Prov 1:7). And accompanying this reverence ought to be a desire to walk in the way of "wise dealing, righteousness, justice, and equity" (Prov 1:3). But as a man begins to walk in the way of wisdom he will, like any two-legged creature with a poor center of gravity, stumble over his own feet and scuff up his new khakis. And it is in this stumbling that God is so gracious.

God passed his physical therapy licensing exam...he knows what an unsteady gait looks like. And as a Father he delights in his children learning to walk properly. Because of this, he is faithful to be present and straighten out our limps and pigeon-toed shuffles. It is in this way that he disciplines us.

We do not, at first, like that discipline. We would rather have scuffed up khakis. But God loves us more. He is a faithful Father and is not thwarted by our whining. He continues to discipline his children. And the wise man learns to love the discipline of the Lord....it hurts, but it feels good (like massaging out a sore muscle). Indeed, "Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid" (Prov 12:1). Again, "reprove a man of understanding, and he will gain knowledge" (Prov 19:25).

The way of wisdom learns to hear and understand words of instruction and correction. And if anyone has been at this long they will be tempted to get irritated with the discipline. Don't. Receive the reproof of God and repent. Don't wallow. Christ is your righteousness. Lift up your eyes in faith to the One who gives life freely and receive life. Thank him for his sharp instruction and walk on. And as you walk feel free to sing with Solomon - "Oh Lady Wisdom, how your ways are ways of pleasantness and all your paths are peace...you are a tree of life to those who lay hold of you and those who hold fast to you are called blessed" (cf. Prov 3:17,18).