Biblical Wisdom

As a group here, we are going through Proverbs during our morning devotions.  I admit that growing up I really thought that the Proverbs were just a bunch of nice little sayings that people say and never really saw the point to them.  But since we have been going through them I am learning all sorts of things, especially about how much I am lacking in Biblical wisdom!  

Today we focused on chapter 9 of Proverbs.  Sometimes I get confused because its too smart for me as I try and figure out what other meanings the verses could have besides talking about the lady of folly, etc...But today verse one is what really stuck out to me.  In our study questions we had a little side note that directed us to read 9:1 with James 3:17 in mind.  Here are the verses.  

Wisdom has built her house; she has carved its seven columns.

Proverbs 9:1 (NLT) 

But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere.

James 3:17 (NLT) 

These two verses and their meanings have been floating around in my head all day long.  There has been so many little nuggets that I have gotten out of this since we looked at it this morning.  First of all columns.  What is a column, what is its purpose?  Its a support, a base, a pillar.  After thinking about this verse for awhile I had this picture in my head of these seven columns that the verse talks about, and the seven characteristics of wisdom that are listed in James 3:17.  I envisioned in my head myself and what my pillars are.  What are the things that are the base of my life?  Are they always Christ-like?  Reading the verse in James certainly struck something in me.  It was like a smack upside the head saying listen!  Are you basing your life off of Biblical things?  Are you truly being wise in a Biblical sense?  The verse is a little bit overwhelming to me, I admit.  There is no way that I can do all of those things by myself.  But as I write this now I am reminded that God alone can help us to accomplish that things that he has for us.  We cannot do it on our own.  These things are not easy to always do, but for me it is good to know what God expects of me.  

Thank you Jesus for your Word that is true and alive!  Help us all to live by your Word and remember that you don't expect us to do it all on our own.  Thank you for always being there and revealing these little nuggets in your Word when we need it most.