Scripture Focus
Primary Text: Proverbs 8:32
“Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways.”
This scripture calls us to guard, obey, and walk in wisdom’s ways—which are God’s ways. The blessing is not tied to knowledge alone, but to doing, not merely hearing.
Introduction
This message comes from Part Two of our Proverbs study—Wisdom Versus Foolishness, covering chapters 4 through 9. This section begins with the Father’s wise instruction and walks us through warnings against adultery, deceit, and immorality. It personifies wisdom as though she were a living being—granting her eternal nature, which belongs only to the Lord Himself. Ultimately, Proverbs contrasts the invitation of wisdom with the lure of folly.
“Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” — Matthew 6:10
Today’s topic, “Wisdom Praise: Thy Will Be Done”, centers on Proverbs 8 and how wisdom harmonizes with God’s will, echoing the spirit of Matthew 6:10.
Wisdom as the Will of God
In Proverbs 8, wisdom is portrayed as an extension of God’s will—an early echo of Christ Himself as described in John 1.
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” — John 1:1
When wisdom prays, “Thy will be done,” it reflects the Spirit of Christ within us, aligning our intellect, emotion, and will with God’s divine order.
True wisdom bows before God, not asking for its own way but walking in harmony with His will. Every choice either confirms God’s will or resists it. Wisdom chooses God’s path; foolishness chooses destruction. The victory of wisdom is found in surrender—rejecting self-will and the seduction of folly to walk in God’s perfect way.
Hearing and Obeying Wisdom’s Voice
“Blessed are they that keep my ways.” — Proverbs 8:32
This means obedience and attentiveness to wisdom are acts of obedience to God’s will.
“I have taught you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in right paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hindered.” — Proverbs 4:11–12
Reverend Thompson reminded us that discerning God’s will requires both understanding and transformation of heart. To know God’s will, we must hear His voice above the noise of the world.
In Mandarin, the character for “listen” combines symbols for ear, eyes, heart, and king—reminding us that true listening involves attention, empathy, and reverence for the One who speaks.
Wisdom and the Power of Surrender
We do not perform God’s will in our own strength. God begins the work, Jesus enables it, and the Spirit empowers it. Our role is cooperation, not self-effort. Wisdom recognizes its limits, while foolishness assumes self-sufficiency.
“Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.” — Zechariah 4:6
Depending on the Spirit is an act of applied wisdom—living out this truth daily. Wisdom surrenders the illusion of control and trusts God to finish what He starts. When we think we are in control, it’s only an illusion; wisdom places full trust in God.
Love: The True Motive of Obedience
Reverend Thompson also taught that doing the will of God is an act of love. Obedience born of love, not fear, pleases God. Wisdom acts out of reverence and love, not obligation.
“I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently will find me.” — Proverbs 8:17
Wisdom without love becomes pride; love without wisdom becomes recklessness. To walk wisely is to walk lovingly, for love is the highest expression of understanding God’s heart.
The Blessing of Obedience
“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” — Proverbs 14:12
God’s will is for our good. Obedience brings peace, joy, and eternal inheritance. Human foolishness clings to ways that seem right but lead to destruction. When we align our will with God’s, we “level up” to see His will displayed on earth as in heaven.
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” — Proverbs 9:10
Obedience equals wisdom; resistance equals folly. The wise know that obeying God leads to peace and prosperity—both spiritual and material. God’s commands are not restrictions but protections, guiding us into divine harmony and blessing.
Reflection & Prayer
Wisdom is choosing God’s will over human folly. It is the daily surrender of self to divine order—trusting that God’s plan leads to peace, protection, and purpose. Each time we pray, “Thy will be done,” we reaffirm that wisdom’s praise is found in obedience.
Prayer: Father, thank You for Your Word and for the wisdom that comes from revering You. Help us to make wise choices—to choose Your path even when we do not understand it. Teach us to listen with our ears, our hearts, and our minds, so that Your will may be done in us and through us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.