Proverbs 8 - Exhortation, Explanation, and an Invitation

Proverbs 8, Wisdom's Call, is quite the opposite of the previous chapter which describes the adulteress. My Reformation Study Bible does well in explaining some of the differences between the adulteress and Wisdom. It says, "The adulteress moves covertly at dusk and speaks falsely; Wisdom moves publicly and speaks direct and authoritative truth. Unlike the deceptive, twisted speech of the woman, Wisdom says only what is straight, right and true. The foreign wife leads her victims into slavery, impoverishment and death; Wisdom leads her followers into kingship, wealth and life. The foreign wife inhabits the earthly and mundane; Wisdom soars in heaven, above space and time. Both rub shoulders in the city and appeal for the love of the uncommitted, gullible youth - the adulteress does so erotically, Wisdom spiritually. The house of the unfaithful wife is a deathtrap; the mansion of Wisdom is the abundant life."

Proverbs 8:1-21 is an exhortation. It is as if Solomon is saying, "Here, this is why you should listen to Wisdom." Proverbs 8:21-31 seems to be explaining the history and reliability of Wisdom. It has been, it is, and it always will be. And then verses 32-36 invites us to listen! It is saying, because of all these things, Wisdom is worthy of listening to! Listen, "Do not ignore it...blessed is the man who listens...whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the LORD." (Proverbs 8:32-35.

Another thing that the Lord impressed upon me while I was focusing on this Proverb is the numerous times that Wisdom is compared to precious metals and gems. The finest of material things do not even come close to the value of Wisdom! What a message! Wisdom says, "Choose my instruction instead of silver...gold...rubies..." (vs. 10-11) "My fruit is better than fine gold; what I yield surpasses choice silver." (vs. 19) Boy, the Lord knows what is important to us! He knew that it was important to people back then, even as it is now! We all struggle with valuing material things (me especially). This is another lesson for me that these things fail us, but wisdom is everlasting!

LORD, you are more precious than silver
LORD, you are more costly than gold,
LORD, you are more beautiful than diamonds
and nothing I desire compares with you.