Proverbs 1:20 - The call of wisdom


The Call of Wisdom

Proverbs 1:20 (KJV) Says:
"Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets."

This verse paints a vivid picture of wisdom as a person crying out in public places, calling out to all who will listen. It shows that wisdom is not hidden or exclusive—it is accessible to anyone willing to hear and follow it.

1.   Wisdom is Available to All – God’s wisdom is not reserved for a select few but is openly calling out to everyone. It is found in His Word, in godly counsel, and in life’s experiences.

·        Psalm 119:105 says, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Scripture provides guidance on how to live righteously, make wise decisions, and understand God’s will. Those who read and meditate on God’s Word grow in wisdom (James 1:5). 

·    God often speaks through wise and godly people—pastors, mentors, parents, and friends who have a deep relationship with Him. Seeking advice from mature believers helps us make choices that align with God’s will. 

·      Every challenge, success, and failure can be an opportunity to gain wisdom.  Even trials refine us and help us grow in wisdom (James 1:2-4).

2.  A Call to Listen – Wisdom is speaking, but are we listening? Many times, distractions and worldly desires can drown out God’s voice.  Don’t let the following distractions drown out God’s voice.

·    Busyness: In today’s fast-paced world, we are often so busy with work, social media, entertainment, and daily responsibilities that we neglect time with God.

·   Noise of the World: The world constantly bombards us with opinions, trends, and values that often contradict God’s truth. It can be easy to listen to society’s wisdom instead of God’s.

·  Personal Desires: Sometimes, we ignore God’s wisdom because it challenges our comfort, pride, or plans. We may prefer our own way instead of surrendering to God’s direction.

We must intentionally seek His wisdom through prayer, Bible study, and godly advice. Here’s how:

·     Prayer (Communicating with God) - Prayer aligns our hearts with God’s will.  It helps us silence distractions and focus on His guidance.  When we pray, we invite the Holy Spirit to lead us in wisdom.  James 1:5 says, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”

·    Bible Study (God’s Word is Our Guide) - Psalm 19:7 says, “The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.”  The Bible is our ultimate source of wisdom.  Regular reading and meditation on Scripture shape our thoughts and decisions.  God speaks through His Word, providing guidance for every situation.

·     Godly Advice (Learning from Wise Counselors) -  Proverbs 13:20 says, “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.”  Seeking advice from those who know and follow God’s Word can keep us from making poor choices.  God often speaks through others to confirm His will in our lives.

3.   Where is Wisdom Calling? – The imagery of wisdom crying out “in the streets” suggests that wisdom is relevant to our daily lives. It is not confined to churches or quiet places of reflection but is needed in our workplaces, relationships, and decisions.

·  Wisdom in the Workplace -  Wisdom helps us work with integrity, diligence, and fairness.  It guides us in making ethical decisions and handling conflicts wisely.  Proverbs 22:29 says, "Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings." Hard work and wisdom lead to success.

·   Wisdom in Relationships- In friendships, wisdom helps us choose the right company. Proverbs 13:20 says, "He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed."  In marriage and family, wisdom teaches patience, love, and understanding. Proverbs 14:1 says, "Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands."  Wisdom helps us control our words. Proverbs 15:1 says, "A soft answer turneth away wrath."

·   Wisdom in Decision-Making- Every choice we make—big or small—requires wisdom. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to trust in the Lord for direction: "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." Wisdom helps us avoid impulsive and harmful decisions, leading to a stable and successful life.

4.   Responding to the Call – Just as wisdom calls, there is also the danger of ignoring it. Proverbs 1 later warns that rejecting wisdom leads to destruction. Choosing to heed God’s wisdom brings life, peace, and security, but rejecting it brings trouble and regret.

·    Proverbs 1:24-26 says, -"Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded; But ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof: I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh."  Ignoring wisdom leads to unnecessary pain and suffering.  Those who reject wisdom will face difficulties. When troubles come, they may regret not listening to God’s guidance.

Wisdom is always calling, but the choice is ours—listen and experience peace, or ignore it and face hardship. God desires for us to walk in His wisdom so that we can live a life full of joy, protection, and purpose.

Proverbs 1:19                                                                                                 Proverbs 1:21

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