Wisdom and revelation

I sat here this morning and read the news. Ferguson, Cosby and Gruber. At first, I thought what is in a name. (A whole path in itself.) But because I had been up early thinking about a particular topic I thought I had a glimmer of where I might head. Reading the news just convinced me “why let facts get in the way”. A former publisher, I had witnessed one too many “why let truth get in the way of a good story”.

I look at a lot of smart, even wise believers making choices that in so many cases are leading them down “blind alleys” where there seems to be no way out. It might be a dead job or a friend or relationship that sucks life away. Because of our microwave thinking and 140 character discussions, life seems to be focused on now and “me”. (I can not tell you how many married couples I have suggested “get rid of the text messages” as they “fight” through electronics.) Either thought process usually is not based in wisdom or revelation.

Ephesians 1:17 I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. Paul kept asking and so I do. For my family, for my friends, for those I have not met. (If you want to change things, speak that over people!)

Wisdom is defined in this scripture as wisdom, broad and full of intelligence; used of the knowledge of very diverse matters. It brings about skill in the management of affairs; devout and proper prudence in intercourse with men not disciples of Christ, skill and discretion in imparting Christian truth; the knowledge and practice of the requisites for godly and upright living. It would be nice if we could simply call out for wisdom to “come” and that would be it. But often wisdom is a fruit that is tasted, savored, employed and expressed. Like the wine commercial, there is no release of “wisdom” before its time. (The original wine commercial said “no wine would be sold before its time.) Wisdom often takes time. The truth is there is a “spirit of wisdom” (1 Corinthians 12)or manifestation of wisdom, but that may be “on a need to know basis”. Wisdom is wisdom because it has been around a long time. It takes advantage of seeing things over time, implementing solutions (Even wrong ones sometimes.)and developing patience. (All the antithesis of a “me, right now” thinking.)

Wisdom is often sought after but because of its apparent plainness many move on to another subject, never gaining the value of something so important. I often see very intelligent people bypassing wisdom in favor of their favorite “flavor” of the month, hurting themselves and others. Can I just say “STOP-LOOK and LISTEN”?

Where is the “look”? Why it is found in the revelation. Defined as a laying bare of something. Making it “naked” or plain to see. A disclosure of truth (Or Truth!)and instruction. It may have been covered before, but now it is seen.

Have you walked down a blind alley? Are you really willing to embrace “stop, look and listen”? I know it will look good as a tweet or a Facebook post, but will you embrace it? Will you accept its counsel? Its advice? Because trust me, wisdom speaks. Does not wisdom call? And understanding [a]lift up her voice? On top of the heights beside the way, Where the paths meet, she takes her stand; Beside the gates, at the opening to the city, At the entrance of the doors, she cries out… (Proverbs 8:1-3)

Truly there is a voice of experience. It may in fact be called wisdom!