Nurture

Wisdom is a gift

stjohnstmarkchurchburyMonday, February 8, 2021

The Bible teaches that Wisdom is a gift that God has prepared for those who love him. In our reading from the Old Testament book of Proverbs, we are told that “wisdom” existed even before God’s act of creation. The passage uses the notion of wisdom as an individual – a person.

This wisdom should not be thought of as something separate from God. It is God’s own perfect wisdom through which He created all that exists. This links in with the theme of today’s service which is shown in the Collect. It talks of God creating heaven and earth and human beings “in his own image”.

Acts of creation

In the Old Testament, wisdom is not about thinking deep philosophical thoughts. It is about practical know how when it comes to living well in the world. One dictionary definition of wisdom is: “the ability to use your knowledge and experience to make good decisions and judgement”.

So, this continues the link between wisdom and creation as we engage in our personal lives in various acts of creation. We may work in practical ways for the benefit of other. We may build and strengthen organisations through our experience and practical knowledge. Or we may, in a different realm, build families, homes and networks of friendship. It follows that in all these areas of life, if our creation is to be good and effective, we too need to seek the wisdom of God.

Collect for the day

Almighty God, you have created the heavens and the earth and made us in your own image. Teach us to discern your hand in all your works and your likeness in all your children. Through Jesus Christ, your Son our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns supreme over all things, now and for ever.

“Wisdom is a gift” was a Reflection for ‘Service at Home’ provided by Dave Thompson. It’s based on Proverbs 8:1, 22-31. Many thanks to Jr Korpa for the picture on Unsplash.