Proverbs 4:7 notes, "WISDOM IS THE PRINCIPAL THING; Therefore get wisdom,
And in all your getting, get understanding." Why? Because wisdom--or the understanding of what is true, right or lasting--is the essence of living a successful life.
*Here are some of the reasons why the Bible calls wisdom the principal thing:
She is a shelter and a protection. Ecclesiastes 7:12 ESV notes, "For the protection of wisdom is like the protection of money, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of him who has it."
She is a guide. "Then you will understand righteousness and justice, Equity and every good path." Proverbs 2:9 NKJV
She makes life pleasant. Proverbs 3:17 declares, "Her (wisdom) ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace."
She will promote and honor you. Proverbs 4;8 notes, "Esteem her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will honor you."
She brings wealth and long life. Proverbs 3:16 NIV says, "Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor. Also see Proverbs 8:18-19,21.
...AND HOW YOU GET IT:
Fear of God. Proverbs 1:7 states, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, but fools despise wisdom and discipline."
Trust in God. Proverbs 3:5-6 adds, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight."
Humility. Proverbs 22:4 declares, "Humility and the fear of the Lord bring wealth and honor and life."
Delighting in God's Word. Psalm 112:1 notes, "Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who finds great delight in His commands. Also see Psalm 119, Psalm 1 and Joshua 1:8.
Respect & embrace her. See Proverbs 4:8 above.
Consider her your sister. In the current, modern-day American vernacular..be on wisdom, like white on Wonder Bread, green on grass. Proverbs 7:4 declares, "Say to wisdom, 'you are my sister'..."
