What’s so good about wisdom?

Every day we’re asking four questions about part of the Bible. Today Helen Leckie answers:

What did I like about today’s passage?

Like all of Ecclesiastes, today’s passage covers a lot of ground, so I won’t cover it all. But one theme that stands out today is wisdom. I relate to the Teacher in wanting to search out wisdom. It’s an ambition of mine to be wise – I have this picture of who I would like to be at age 84, surrounded by family and emanating wisdom and peace. I know I’m a long way from that. Here the Teacher relates some wisdom he has learned, and acknowledges the value of wisdom

‘Wisdom is a shelter
as money is a shelter,
but the advantage of knowledge is this:
Wisdom preserves those who have it.’ (Ecc 7:12)

Wisdom is something that can shield you from some of the troubles that come from outside. Money can also do this, but unlike money, wisdom can help protect you from what is inside too.

The teacher also acknowledges that wisdom can be more of a goal and scoffs at being wise himself, instead trying to recognise wisdom, seeking to understand foolishness and piecing together an understanding of human nature bit by bit.

But wisdom has its limitations – terrible things happen to wise people, and we all die in the end whether wise or foolish. It should not be an end in itself.

I have a hard time equating wisdom with his words about women “not one upright woman among them all” – however it reads to me like someone who has been hurt by women – it’s a reminder that none of us can be completely wise about everything.

What did it show me about Father God, Jesus or the Holy Spirit?

Despite our best efforts to comprehend the world, no one can truly understand all that God has done. But the more we search for it, the more in awe of God we will be. I find it amazing to hear about scientific discoveries, and how complex systems in the world or the universe can interact, and marvel at how God has put it all together. We are the children of an incredible Father.

What am I going to do differently as a result?

I love the idea of searching out wisdom, recognising different pockets of wisdom in people and systems in different places. I’m going to try to identify and appreciate a range of people’s pockets of wisdom over the next few days.

Who am I going to share this with?

I’m not sure yet. I would love to have a conversation with a work colleague about an area they are experienced or passionate about and be able to explain about Ecclesiastes and searching for wisdom!