Proverbs 3:18 (ESV) -- She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her; those who hold her fast are called blessed.

There is a difference between having knowledge and possessing wisdom. Many people have knowledge. You can read books, take classes, or watch YouTube videos to learn things. Knowledge is available everywhere. But wisdom is different. Wisdom is about having insight and understanding into how things, people, and the world works. Wisdom is an understanding of how to apply knowledge, resolve conflicts, and connect the dots of choices. 

Our passage today tells us wisdom is indispensable. The proverb says, “She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her; those who hold her fast are called blessed.” “She” in the text is wisdom. Notice it says she is a “tree of life.” The tree of life is a reference to the Garden of Eden. The tree’s fruit provided life for those who ate it. Adam and Eve were banished from the Garden and exiled from the tree. But those who seek wisdom have access to the tree of life, in a proverbial sense. 

Wisdom gives life. Those who lay a hold of wisdom benefit from her. Those who gain wisdom are called blessed. One of the big issues in our world today is the lack of wisdom that exists. This is true even within the church. We have a lack of wisdom. This lack of wisdom keeps us from knowing how to respond in godly ways to ungodly things. It hampers us from knowing how to handle difficult situations. Wisdom is the need of the hour. 

How do we gain wisdom? Wisdom doesn’t come automatically with age. There are young people with wisdom. There are older people who lack wisdom. Wisdom is sought after. Wisdom is prized. It is gained when we seek the understanding of the Lord. Wise people are those who know God, understand His ways, and follow His commands. Wisdom is sought in the Word of God. If you want to be a wise person, take up the Word each day and ask the Lord to make you wise. Wisdom is the tree of life for all who lay hold of her.

Reflection & Journal:
- Why is wisdom compared to the tree of life?
- What are some examples of wisdom today? What marks a wise person you know?
- How can Christians grow in wisdom? What are some practical action steps?

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