Psalm 1 tells us that the righteous are like trees planted by rivers of water, yielding fruit in season. Pastor Rod reminded us we are planted to prosper and flourish. A wise saint knows how to ride the waves and conquer the storm.

“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom.” — Proverbs 4:7

Wisdom anchors us so that pain, problems, disappointments, and attacks of the prowler cannot uproot us. Our roots must draw from living water, not human opinion. Even in laughter the heart may ache, but wisdom discerns God’s purposes. (Proverbs 14:13)

Wisdom teaches us that pain is not purposeless. It is formative, building us for the next stage (Proverbs 3:11–12; Hebrews 12:6). Rather than seeking shortcuts, we should meditate daily on God’s Word, “pondering the path of our feet so that our ways are firmly established” (Proverbs 4:26–27). Ask the Lord to guide you during pain so that you will not be uprooted.

As Pastor Rod says, when life starts “lifeing,” problems come. But God sees our paths (Proverbs 5:21). Like the ant, which toils without a leader (Proverbs 6:6–8), we must persevere. Wisdom helps us see problems through God’s lens, not man’s. Human tendencies are to blame, indulge, or avoid, but God’s Word directs us with true perspective.

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” — Proverbs 1:7

When dreams or hopes are delayed, we must still draw near to God. His wisdom brings enduring riches and honor (Proverbs 8:18–19), not fleeting gain. Disappointment often comes from clinging to our own will instead of God’s. The fear of the Lord is to hate evil, pride, and arrogance.

When dreams are denied, we can rest assured we have a hope in Christ. “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.” (Proverbs 13:12)

Wisdom disciplines disappointments. As we grow in Christ, disappointments shape us for what lies ahead. Whether doors open or close, we must stay aligned with God’s vision.

The enemy preys on distraction, compromise, and pride. Wisdom exposes his schemes. When we open a window through pride or compromise, the prowler enters. But wisdom guards the heart and mind with discernment (Proverbs 4:23).

“Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” — 1 Peter 5:8

Foolishness makes sin look harmless, but its end is destruction. Folly is often louder than wisdom, pulling us off course. We must resist by treasuring God’s Word, declaring Jesus’ victory, and walking in obedience.

Ask yourself: Do I know where the enemy is most likely to lure me? Can I identify my vulnerabilities? What specific habits of wisdom do I need — prayer, meditation, Scripture memorization, hiding the Word in my heart — to remain fortified and wise?

We flourish not by escaping pain, problems, disappointments, or the prowler — but by remaining planted and rooted in God’s wisdom, bearing fruit in every season. Jeremiah reminds us that even in exile, God’s plans are for good (Jeremiah 29:11).

“Blessed are those who keep my ways, for whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor.” — Proverbs 8:32

Through wisdom, we can stay the course, remain grounded, and flourish so that others may see the life of Christ in us.