Proverbs Daily Devotional: Day 4
“Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. Esteem her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will honor you.”
Proverbs 4:7-8
Ancient Greek Mythology tells the tragic story of Eos, the goddess of the dawn, and her lover, Tithonus, a mortal man. Wanting to share eternity with Tithonus, Eos asked Zeus to grant eternal life to Tithonus, which Zeus did. The tragedy of the story is that she forgot to ask for perpetual youth for Tithonus as well, so although he did live forever, he also aged progressively for all eternity, eventually wasting away and begging for death. This is the price of pursuing one thing without another, which is equally vital.
The Proverbs warn against seeking after riches without first pursuing wisdom. To have wealth without wisdom is akin to having eternal life without perpetual youth. It will all waste away to nothing. Wisdom should always come before wealth. Former Pittsburgh Steeler wide receiver Plaxico Burress went on to win a Super Bowl with the NY Giants, but later made the news for foolishly shooting himself in the leg with a gun he had in his pocket. He not only went to jail, but he also lost much of the fortune he had amassed as an NFL star. Later he wrote an open letter to all incoming rookies in the NFL, telling his story of highs and lows, and pleading with them to follow a different path. Wealth without wisdom does not last.
Jesus echoes the Proverbs, saying: “But seek first God’s kingdom and righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” What are you pursuing first and foremost in your life? Are you a treasure hunter, seeking after wealth no matter what the cost? Or are you searching for wisdom, seeking understanding, trusting God’s Word that attaining these first is paramount?
— Pastor Jeff
