Get Wisdom and Insight
Author: Stephen Weller
The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight. (Proverbs 4:7 ESV)
To say “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom” appears confusing and maybe redundant, but it is designed to express the importance of wisdom as the central theme in the book of Proverbs. In Proverbs 8:17 ESV, wisdom is expressed as a person: “I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me.” This reminds one of Jesus as expressed in Colossians 2:3 ESV: “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” To seek for wisdom, we should seek to find Jesus and study his life and out of love obey what he teaches.
To “get wisdom” requires discernment because James explains to us that there are two kinds of wisdom: that from above and that which is earthly. James 3:15 – 17 ESV: 15 “This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.” Is not this wisdom from above a description of Jesus? To get wisdom is to get Jesus.
In addition to getting wisdom we are to be sure to get insight. What then is insight? According to Proverbs 9:10, the “knowledge of the Holy One is insight.” Synonyms for insight are vision, understanding, awareness, intuition, and perception. It is “the capacity to gain an accurate and deep intuitive understanding of a person or thing.” (from smart lookup, powered by Oxford Dictionaries).
To gain knowledge of the Holy One and to gain an accurate and deep intuitive understanding of his ways, one would need to systematically study the Scriptures. This needs to be a part of daily living, for without it we are not truly living.
Father, if life is to be deep and rich there is no substitute to knowing Jesus and his word and living it out in loving obedience. Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6 ESV), and in him “are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”
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Summary Theme
The supreme priority of wisdom in the life of a believer.
Summary Paragraph
Proverbs 4:7 teaches that wisdom is the most important pursuit in life and must be sought above all else. The verse emphasizes that wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge but the practical ability to live according to God’s truth. Solomon instructs that gaining wisdom should be the believer’s first priority, and alongside wisdom comes understanding; the ability to discern and apply God’s principles to everyday decisions. True wisdom begins with reverence for God and shapes a life marked by righteousness, discernment, and stability. Those who pursue wisdom intentionally place themselves under God’s guidance, allowing His truth to direct their thoughts, choices, and character.
Discussion Questions with Extended Answers
What does Proverbs 4:7 mean when it says, “Wisdom is the principal thing”?
The phrase means that wisdom is the most important pursuit in life. Many people prioritize wealth, success, status, or knowledge, but Scripture teaches that wisdom surpasses them all because it governs how every other area of life is handled. Wisdom enables a person to make decisions that align with God’s will, leading to a life that honors Him and avoids unnecessary harm. When wisdom is prioritized, it guides relationships, finances, speech, and moral choices. Without wisdom, even great knowledge or opportunity can lead to poor decisions. Therefore, the verse calls believers to make wisdom their first pursuit.
How is biblical wisdom different from ordinary knowledge?
Knowledge is the accumulation of information, while wisdom is the ability to apply that knowledge correctly. A person may know many facts but still make unwise decisions. Biblical wisdom goes deeper; it involves understanding God’s perspective and living accordingly. It includes moral discernment, humility, reverence for God, and a willingness to follow His commands. Proverbs repeatedly teaches that “the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,” meaning that true wisdom starts with recognizing God’s authority and seeking His guidance in life.
Why does the verse instruct us to gain understanding along with wisdom?
Understanding complements wisdom by enabling a person to grasp the deeper meaning behind truth. Wisdom guides decisions, while understanding helps interpret situations accurately. Together they allow believers to navigate complex circumstances with discernment. For example, wisdom might teach the importance of honesty, while understanding helps determine how to communicate truth wisely in different contexts. Seeking both ensures that a believer does not merely follow rules but learns to think and act according to God’s principles.
How can a believer actively pursue wisdom today?
Pursuing wisdom requires intentional effort. Scripture teaches that wisdom grows through studying God’s Word, prayer, and learning from godly counsel. Reflecting on biblical teachings, asking God for guidance, and observing the consequences of choices all contribute to wisdom. James 1:5 promises that God gives wisdom generously to those who ask Him. Practically, believers pursue wisdom by meditating on Scripture, seeking advice from mature Christians, and applying biblical principles in everyday decisions.
What are the long-term benefits of prioritizing wisdom in life?
A life guided by wisdom leads to stability, integrity, and lasting impact. Wisdom protects individuals from destructive paths and helps them build relationships based on truth and compassion. It fosters humility, patience, and discernment, qualities that bring honor to God and blessing to others. Ultimately, wisdom prepares believers to live faithfully before God and to influence others through righteous living. In the broader biblical narrative, wisdom directs the believer toward a life that reflects God’s character and fulfills His purposes.
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