Daily Word: Women of Strength Part 2

We conclude our look at Proverbs by reviewing verse 30: Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. (RSV) The JPS Study Bible comments: "Fear of the Lord: This is the culminating virtue of the woman of strength, just as it is wisdom's starting point and high point." The key to the woman of strength, as well as the man following God, is wisdom. We need wisdom to deal with the difficulties of life. Wisdom helps us to say the right thing at the right time. Wisdom can make us a success in business and in relationships. The opposite is also true; the lack of wisdom can make us a failure in business and in relationships.

How do we get wisdom? James 1:5 says: If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives to all men generously and without reproaching, and it will be given him. (RSV) The Barnes NT Commentary explains: "Probably this refers particularly to the kind of wisdom which they would need in their trials, to enable them to bear them in a proper manner; for there is nothing in which Christians more feel the need of heavenly wisdom than in regard to the manner in which they should bear trials, and what they should do in the perplexities, and disappointments, and bereavements that come upon them: but the language employed is so general, that what is here said may be applied to the need of wisdom in all respects. Let him ask of God: That is, for the specific wisdom which he needs; the very wisdom which is necessary for him in the particular case. It is proper to bear the very case before God; to make mention of the specific want; to ask of God to guide us in the very matter where we feel so much embarrassment. It is one of the privileges of Christians...." Notice that you have the right to ask and expect to receive wisdom from God.

Today, if you need wisdom, ask God. Study His word and meditate on His scriptures. As you do, you will develop wisdom. It is not an overnight process and it is not like getting a shot in the arm. God has given you a mind and the ability to understand. Ask God for His help and then you do your part. Seek wisdom.