Week Two: Exploring Proverbs 9:1
Proverbs 9:1 states: “Wisdom has built her house; she has hewn out her seven pillars.” This week, we delve into the second pillar: Knowledge. Last week, we explored the first pillar, Wisdom, defining it as “understanding the consequences of our actions and words before we speak or act.” We reflected on the profound implications of denying Christ and His resurrection based on one’s belief system.
Reflecting on Wisdom
To briefly recap, wisdom is foundational to our spiritual journey. It involves making choices with the understanding of their consequences, particularly in the context of faith. Wisdom challenges us to consider how our actions align with God’s truth.
A Moment of Inspiration
While pondering this, I was deeply moved by a YouTube video by Sheila Walsh. In it, she walks the road to Emmaus and visits the tomb where Jesus was buried. Watching her journey felt awe-inspiring and brought the reality of Christ’s resurrection to life. If you’d like to experience it for yourself, here is the link to the video.
Pillar Two: Knowledge
Today, we turn our focus to the second pillar: Knowledge. According to GotQuestions.org, biblical knowledge encompasses understanding, recognition, and acknowledgment. To “know” something in Scripture implies a deeper appreciation and often a relationship with it. This is why the knowledge of God is described as the most valuable knowledge a human being can possess.
However, simply being aware of God’s existence is not enough. True knowledge of God involves a relationship—a deep and abiding connection with Him. It requires us to move beyond intellectual awareness to a heartfelt appreciation of His love and sacrifice.
Exploring Definitions
To further understand knowledge, I turned to the dictionary. Knowledge is defined as:
- “Facts, information, and skills acquired by a person through experience or education; the theoretical or practical understanding of a subject.” Synonyms include understanding, comprehension, and grasp.
- “Awareness or familiarity gained by experience of a fact or situation.”
These definitions emphasize both the acquisition and application of information. Interestingly, “knowing” is closely related to knowledge but focuses on the state of possessing this information. In the context of faith, this distinction reminds us that it is not enough to “know about” God; we must “know” Him personally.
From Knowledge to Relationship
When you commit your life to Christ, you begin to “know” Him. This knowledge is not just intellectual but relational. It is a connection that transforms us. Reflecting on my life before January 4, 1981, I recall a time when I was consumed by bitterness, anger, and hurt. My heart felt like it had a hole so vast I could barely breathe—as if a freight train had plowed through the center of my soul, leaving a void nothing could fill. I tried to fill that emptiness with “stuff, people, money, fame, drugs, sex, and rock ‘n roll,” but nothing satisfied.
Today, people are still trying to fill that God-sized hole in their hearts with fleeting things. The rise in suicide rates is a tragic reminder of the hopelessness many feel. I can honestly say that if I had not committed my life to Christ, I might have become one of those statistics. Only He could fill the void and give my life purpose.
An Invitation
I encourage you to get to know Him. If you feel a longing in your heart, I challenge you to pray: “Jesus, if You’re real, then make Yourself real to me.” I promise you, He will respond.
Moving Forward
As we continue to explore the seven pillars in Proverbs 9:1, let us reflect on how knowledge shapes our relationship with God. Are we merely aware of Him, or do we truly know Him? Let this week be an opportunity to deepen our connection with the One who is the resurrection and the life.