March 06, 2008
Wisdom is Better than Strength; A Poor Man's Wisdom is Despised
Wisdom is better than strength.
Solomon tells a story about a small city that faced insurmountable odds against a powerful foe. Within the walls of the city was a wise man who devised their defense and saved the city.
When you face difficult challenges don’t fear the intimidating shouts of your opponent. Listen for the quiet whispers of the wise for instruction. (Ecclesiastes 9:17)
A poor man’s wisdom is despised.
Following the amazing victory was a disturbing reality. The people forgot the poor man. They despised him because of his status in life. This truth couldn’t be more powerful than in our day where wealth is the criterion of influence.
It is often the famous, the beautiful, and the rich that influence our culture but if you listen to what they say, they are disoriented fools.
All the while, wise people walk through life unheard, unseen, ineffective to bring about real change. That’s why Proverbs says that ”Wisdom cries out in the city streets” for someone to stop and listen.
We need to position ourselves for influence. The only way that we can effectively change a culture is to have the platform to be heard.