Proverbs 8:12-21 “‘I, wisdom, have dwelt with prudence, and I find knowledge and discretion. The fear of the LORD is to hate evil; I hate arrogant pride and the evil way and perverse utterances. Counsel and sound wisdom belong to me; I possess understanding and might. By me kings reign, and by me potentates decree righteousness; by me princes rule, as well as nobles and all righteous judges. I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently will find me. Riches and honor are with me, long-lasting wealth and righteousness. My fruit is better than the purest gold, and my harvest is better than choice silver. I walk in the path of righteousness, in the pathway of justice, that I may cause those who love me to inherit wealth, and that I may fill their treasuries.'”

We’re used to “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,” but how about “the fear of the Lord is to hate evil”? And evil is defined as pride, arrogance, and perverted speech. Do we hate those things, or do we engage in them? Wisdom not only defines righteous leadership (from kings, princes, and nobles), it also defines righteous living. And it is available to everyone! If we seek after wisdom, we’ll find it. If we love it, it will love and direct us. The fruit of wisdom is avoiding trouble, doing right, and obtaining an inheritance that is better than gold or silver!

Proverbs 8:35 “For the one who finds me has found life and receives favor from the LORD.”