June 4

Proverbs 7-9
“Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.  The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”  Proverbs 9:9-10 As a teacher, I found that there are those who do not like instruction.  These are insulted when another seeks to give them help, so they reject any teaching.  Instead, they choose to learn through painful experience, or not learn at all.  And then, there is the other end of the spectrum, those who will receive instruction from any source available.  These are often referred to as lifelong learners.  They are ever learning, always open to change, and continually growing.  The former live with frustration and fail to enjoy life to the full, while the latter develop an inward peace as they joyfully experience all that life has to offer.  It is our choice, whether to be wise or foolish.  If we choose wisdom, we must begin with recognizing the fearful power of God, seeking to know the One who, through just speaking the word, brought all of creation into existence.  As we come to know the Lord in ever increasing knowledge our wisdom will grow and, with it, our joy and peace.