Wisdom

By: Jim Josephsen

Of the writing of books, there seems to be no end. Of the writing of articles in magazines, on the internet, can the world contain them all?

If these statements seem a little familiar, perhaps it is because you have read in the Biblical book, Ecclesiastes 12:12, “and further by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and in much study is weariness of the flesh.”

Whether one goes to any one of the many thousands of books stores across the country or visits Websites such as Amazon.com, one can grow tired and perhaps loss heart in the attempt to view the scores of books and publications available. In this 21^st Century knowledge and information abounds. If you are interested in a particular topic, you will probably find more information about that topic then you could possibly use or certainly have the time to review.

However, how much useful, practical knowledge is available in all these written materials? How much wisdom and logic can be ascertained, can be sifted out from all the reams of paper, stacks of magazines and the glut of books?

Books and article all contain information, documentation, facts, figures, directions, opinions, scientific observations, good sense, and history along with all kinds of foolishness, sarcasms, and human-centric points of view. All too frequently books contain prurient, shameful disgust; information unbecoming decency; information which leads away from a salubrious, dignified and healthy life.

When you sift through the plethora of reading opportunities available, you are challenged to accept or reject what you read, for not all of what meets your eyes and penetrates your brain is right, correct, and truthful.

You are left to decide, to validate the veracity of the words you read. Then when it comes to putting to practice what you have read, to maneuver through life based on the newly acquired knowledge, to manage the obstacles that challenge you, you are left to your own devices and opinions. Often the outcome is counter-productive, destructive, and just simply not good. Some times the authors of the books provide you beneficial information; other times you are mislead, misdirected, and deceived.

Wouldn’t it be good if you could read information that is time tested, that is certifiable, validated, accurate and true and most of all given the seal of approval from the creator and all-wise God?

Perhaps you can provide for yourself a challenge in the next couple of months by reading the two books of the Bible, which are attributed to the wise and astute King Solomon.

Of Solomon it is stated; “and Solomon’s wisdom excelled the wisdom of all the children of the east country and all the wisdom of Egypt” (I Kings 4:30). God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding. It stands to reason then the information, the sayings of Solomon were all provided under the guidance, the direction, and inspiration of God Almighty.

The books of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes contain a wealth of wisdom; of knowledge which when followed provides health, wealth, and peace. Certainly, you can pursue any of the never-ending supply of reading materials provided to the public but perhaps it would be rewarding to just sit back and meditate upon, contemplate and ponder the wisdom Solomon provides.

Take time to read the Wisdom of Solomon. Meditate upon his words. Put them to practice. Test them; determine their truth and relevancy in your life. Hold them up to the myriad books out there in this world.

“The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of the fool.”

Proverbs 3:35