Daily Devotional | Benefits of Godly Learning

Two immigrants to Australia found the world’s largest gold nugget! One day in 1869, one of them was digging around the roots of a tree when he discovered a gold “nugget” weighing an estimated 158 pounds. Called the “Welcome Stranger,” it was worth about $3 million in today’s money.

Godly wisdom is more valuable than gold! In today’s passage, we see the nature and benefits of godly learning: It all begins with fear of the Lord, for He is the source of all learning and wisdom (Prov. 2:5–6).

Next, we need to understand that the pursuit of wisdom is relational (Prov. 4:1–3). Here, the picture is of a father teaching his son. In any case, we’re not alone. We learn alongside others, including our family and fellow believers. Though putting knowledge into practice is essential, as we’ve seen, there’s no need to do it all at once. Learning is an individual and community process.

Finally, we must appreciate that wisdom is exceedingly precious: “Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding” (v. 7). Like the treasure and the pearl in Jesus’ parables (Matt. 13:44–46), godly wisdom and learning are worth our complete commitment. One reason is all the benefits they provide, including life (Prov. 4:4), protection from straying off the path of righteousness (v. 6), and respect or honor (vv. 8–9).

How should we respond to these truths? The imperative verbs in this passage indicate that we’re to “get” wisdom, “take hold” of it, and “keep” it. Our pursuit of godly wisdom must be tenacious and persevering. We’re to follow its lessons, as seen in “do not forget...or turn away” and “do not forsake.” Even more, there’s an emotional element to godly learning: We’re to “love,” “cherish,” and “embrace” it.

>> Parents teaching their children have a responsibility that requires a great deal of faith. After all, we ourselves still have much to learn! Family devotions are one way that parents can help foster godly learning in their home.