7 Pieces of Wisdom: The Bible in Lent Day 22
In the Book of Sirach, we find a collection of wisdom applicable to the life of the faithful. For the Christian, the pursuit of wisdom should be forefront of our life.
It’s important as we read through the wisdom, to think about how these passages apply to our lives today. Here are 7 verses from the Book of Sirach and this wisdom can apply to the lives of Christian women today.
For gold is tested in the fire, and acceptable men in the furnace of humiliation. – Sirach 2:5 RSVCE
In the midst of trials, the reminder that they will help refine us as gold is refined in the fire helps give me hope. It reminds me that God has never abandoned me in trials and that my hope isn’t in this moment, but is in the God who is working the flames on my behalf.
The greater you are, the more you must humble yourself; so you will find favor in the sight of the Lord. – Sirach 3:18 RSVCE
The higher your position, the more you have to actively seek humility. When you are in a low position, when you rely on others, humility is a more natural disposition and you recognize your dependence on God. When you are great, you need to actively seek humility.
Do not find fault before you investigate; first consider, and then reprove. – Sirach 11:7 v
This one is straight-forward – don’t be hasty to judgement. Take the time to investigate something before forming your opinion.
Do not say, “Because of the Lord I left the right way”; for he will not do what he hates. – Sirach 15:11 RSVCE
Again, this is pretty straightforward. We cannot blame the Lord when we choose sin. The Lord does not do what He hates. He will always provide a way for us to choose good and it adds to our shame when we choose sin and blame God for it.
He who despises small things will fail little by little. – Sirach 19:1 RSVCE
This verse is a good reminder to start small and not be too proud or haughty to embrace small beginnings.
A slip on the pavement is better than a slip of the tongue. – Sirach 20:18
As the Book of James expands upon the importance of bridling your tongue but more abut consistently in the Book of Sirach we are exhorted to keep charge over our tongues. Ironically, this is much easier said than done.
Whoever hates reproof walks in the steps of the sinner, but he that fears the Lord will repent in his heart.- Sirach 21:6
When we are corrected, we need to see it as a kindness and sign of love. An opportunity to repent and choose holiness is always an opportunity for good.
Whether you’re new to the wisdom literature or have spent years pouring over proverbs, these seven sayings are a great place to begin in living a wiser, more biblical life.
If you’re serious about pursuing wisdom, I encourage you to take one of these verses to focus on each day. Write it on a notecard, and make it a focus for your day.
Alternatively, you can read through a chapter of the wisdom literature each day and find a verse or two that is applicable to your life or an area you need to grow in.
What are your favorite verses on wisdom?
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