Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance. Proverbs 1:5
“What I love about this text from Proverbs is two things. First, the author doesn’t indicate a finiteness to the hearing or growing or gaining. In fact, some other translations use the future tenses: will hear, will grow, will gain. The end result of our learning is not simply to acquire knowledge; it is to grow in wisdom, to gain guidance, and that work never ends.
And second, I love that the subject is ambiguous. There isn’t one who is wise or one who grows in wisdom; instead, it’s you and I and we together, in community. Though we may prefer to keep our finances private, it’s only in giving all of ourselves to God and to the community—finances included—that we grow in wisdom.”
Joe Kim in Saving Grace: Hope-Filled Devotions Along the Way to Financial Well-Being (Nashville: Abingdon, 2020) 88.
This text add depth to our understanding of the generosity of God. There’s no limit to His wisdom. When the wise go to Him they can expect an infinite supply of just what they need.
Pray for today’s meetings with LCMS stewardship directors from across the USA.
As each one arrives in a different place, pray with me that from the biblical teaching and practical tools, that each one will gain the wisdom they need. Thanks.
And join me in the never ending pursuit of wisdom about money in community.
When we engage in this pursuit and talk openly about money, its power over us weakens. This positions us for greater generosity in our lives and for helping others grow in this grace.