Do you hear her?
“Does not wisdom call? Does not understanding raise her voice?” (Proverbs 8:1 NIV)
Perhaps it’s because I followed unwise whispers for my first twenty-seven years (and saw the devastation of those choices) that now, I can’t lean in far enough to hear wisdom’s voice.
God says if we lack wisdom we can ask for it, and He will give it generously and without fault. (James 1:5) He is our one true source of wisdom.
“He who walks with the wise grows wise.”
Even though Proverbs 13:20 isn’t directed toward our relationship with God, it certainly rings true just the same.
So earlier this year, I added the practice of reading one Psalm a day, in order, and the Proverb that corresponds with that particular day to my morning routine.
It’s funny how one tiny but intentional tweak can breathe new life into a quiet time!
I can’t explain it, but knowing what I will read before I open my Bible helps me to stay focused. Without a specific direction, my brain skips around like a little girl who just downed a second box of Skittles. It’s painful to admit how often I’ve allowed that one silly snafu to trip me up over the years.
But on April 8th, I read this Proverb:
“Listen to wisdom’s instruction and be wise. Do not ignore it. Blessed is the man [and woman] who:
- listens to me
- watching daily at my doors
- waiting at my doorway
… for whoever finds me, finds life and receives favor from the Lord.” Proverbs 8:33-35
I grabbed my needle-thin pen and carefully drew a line beneath the words listens, watching, and waiting.
I couldn’t look away.
Although I’ve read the book of Proverbs many times over for the past thirty years, it’s the first time I noticed the number of active verbs on the way to wisdom. So I began praying:
What’s one way I could be more attentive to the beauty and value discovered in wisdom? Before the question had time to escape my brain (as so many things do), the idea to keep a master list of what I learn about wisdom took a seat and made itself right at home in my heart.
So what’s one way to answer when wisdom calls? Create a Topical List Journal.
Within minutes, I plowed through my pile of empty journals. When I spotted the luggage cover, it reminded me that we’re all sojourners, not stayers, so it was the lucky winner.
Now, in the mornings when I move my way through the book of Proverbs, I read through a chapter in its entirety first. Then, I circle back to list what I learned about wisdom, like:
- She is a tree of life to those who embrace her. (3:17)
- Wisdom = straight paths. (4:11)
- Nothing we desire compares with wisdom. (8:11)
- Wisdom loves those who love her and those who seek her find her. (8:17)
- The LORD brought wisdom forth as the first of his works, before his deeds of old. (8:22)
I sit speechless as I consider the benefits of listening to wisdom’s voice (and the woes if not). Seeing these truths in a list-form format helps me to digest them easier and reflect on them longer.
But you and I, we know it’s not about making a list or finding the “right” journal. And it’s not about becoming wise in our own eyes (Proverbs 3:7) but rather, lifting words from living pages (Hebrews 4:12), and allowing truth to pierce our good ideas, our take on things, and what we think others want to hear.
“Look for wisdom like silver. Search for it like hidden treasure. If you do this, you will understand what it means to respect the LORD, and you will come to know God. The LORD is the source of wisdom; knowledge and understanding come from his mouth.” Proverbs 2:4-6 ERV
Do you hear her calling?
Writing down what we learn about wisdom is a good place to start, but maybe the Holy Spirit is tugging on your ear about a different word or theme. The subjects are endless because the Word speaks to every area of our lives.
- Is there one area in your life you’re struggling with right now? That may be your first subject.
- If you don’t have a journal handy, no problem! Office supply nerds like me seem to always have a stash hidden away, but right now, we’re blessed to just have toilet paper and paper towels, so write it down where ever you please — notebook paper, your phone,
dinner napkins(oops, those are also hard to find!). - Taking an extra second or two to jot down the scripture reference will save time in the long run. Trust me.
- Read the verses aloud as you write them down, and then ask God to show you how to apply the truths. We’re after a heart change, not head knowledge.
- See this as a treasure hunt! Because it’s exactly that, regardless of the subject.
The wise ones search for what is theirs in Christ, and when they search, they find it. And when they find it, their ears open to hear and obey as one who just discovered the greatest treasures this side of heaven.
Are you ready to join the hunt? Share the subject that popped in your mind while reading this post and you’ll automatically be entered into the Topical List Journal giveaway! (Subscribers, you get an extra vote!)
Searching for ways to think of others during the quarantine? Click here to read “30 Meaningful Things to Do if You’re Self-Quarantined.
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First thought for a subject: Direction or guidance. Great ideas, Cathy – thanks for sharing! And oh yes, I’m also a journal hoarder and always have a few of them floating around!
Maybe we should start a journal hoarding support group. Ha!!! Direction and guidance — what helpful subjects. Thanks so much for stopping by!
My first thought was worry/anxiety. That’s an area where I have struggled for years. This is a most timely post, Cathy. I’ll be starting my own topical journal (because I know I’ve got a journal somewhere around here!).
You’re not alone! My next subject is fear but you’ve given me the idea to combine fear/anxiety/worry. We’ll have to touch base and share what we’re learning. Thanks for sharing. 🙂
Really good post. Proverbs and Psalms are my favorite, especially now. 2 thoughts came to mind, wisdom and guard your heart. I love to go back and read a previous journal, hoping I’ve gained some wisdom and how the Lord is working in my life. Thank you as always for your encouraging words. Stay well, stay safe.
“For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Discretion will protect you and understanding will guard you.” Proverbs 2:10 Yes and amen, Elaine! Blessings, friend.
Thank you for your honesty, the insights you’ve gleaned, and the ideas — both practical and inspirational — to ponder and put into practice. I am definitely going to refer to this in my next blog entry and post a link to your post.
Hi, Patti! I appreciate you referring to the post. To God be the glory! Thanks for sharing. 🙂
I, too have been rather random in my scripture reading during my quiet time. I need consistency. I usually do turn to Psalms, but your idea of stating in the beginning is just what I needed. I also love reading scripture aloud. It helps me keep my focus. Thank you Cathy!
I also enjoy reading scripture aloud — add writing it down, and we’ve engaged three God-given senses, helping us digest truth with a fresh perspective. I’m thankful you found the post helpful, Frankie. God bless!
Confidence! That’s what I need and search for, although wisdom is excellent, too. Thank you for your words of wisdom! I love the verses you used in Proverbs 8:33-35.
Excellent! I’d love to read what you find, Stephanie. I’m currently doing a study called, “When People are Big and God is Small” by Edward T. Welch. The author shares about overcoming peer pressure and fear of man. I didn’t realize how skewed some of my thoughts were on those subjects. Confidence weaves itself throughout the book. Take care and thanks so much for taking the time to stop by and share.
What sweet counsel Ms. Cathy. I too love exploring all the new treasures I find in God’s word. Isn’t it amazing that no matter how many times we read a scripture passage, there’s almost always something to be learned. I’ve learned through the years that my learning is directly tied to my focus on my relationship with God. On those mornings when my “God time” is rehearsed or filled with “let’s just get through this and get on the rest of the stuff I need to do today” thoughts, I miss out. It’s when I sit quietly and prayerfully contemplate God’s word, He speaks the loudest. I loved this phrase above; “… we’re all sojourners, not stayers,” So very true ma’am.
I couldn’t agree more J.D. — when quiet times check off a “to-do” the heart isn’t open to hear and receive. I hope y’all are doing well and staying safe. Blessings, friend!
Cathy, thank you for this great post! It’s timely in my life. I’ve gotten away from journaling these past few weeks of staying at home. Not sure why, but it’s been hard to focus. You have motivated me to sit down with pen and paper again as I study His Word. Thank you, friend!
Hi Crickett! I’m thankful God used the post to motivate you for His glory. So often, it’s the other way around. I keep your study close by. 🙂 Please take care of yourself and thank you for taking the time to stop and share. Blessings!!
Hi Cathy,
We’re on the same page! I already had sorta started doing this! It’s true. I’ve been digging for my verse of the year that corresponds with my word of the year…. which is “Embrace.” The second verse, you listed here. I’ve written about it more than any other.
“She is a tree of life to those who embrace her.” (Proverbs 3:17)
I figured out Sunday that it IS my verse as my youngest and all three cats piled on me in the hallway as the tornado passed overhead. Thanks for the opportunity to share.
Blessings,
Laurie Epps
I’m so thankful you all are okay. That was a scary night! We ended up in our hall bathroom at 4 am. Praying for all those who lost loved ones and who are re-building. 🙁 Proverbs 3:27 is one of my favorites too. Thank you for sharing, Laurie.
Great post! I am reading one chapter of the New Testament a week, reading a different translation each day. But I think it would be great to add a Psalm and Proverb. I’ve been missing the Old Testament. Thanks!
And I love YOUR idea, Angie! I’m doing a study in James so currently I’m enjoying both the Old and New Testaments but that’s something to keep in mind moving forward. Hope you’re staying safe inside and having a blessed week. Thank you for giving us a sneak peek into your quiet time. 🙂
I am so going to this now! My husband and I have been reading a Proverbs a day for years, but I never thought to list wisdom’s characteristics. You’ve inspired me! I started today with Proverbs 15. Awesome post my friend!
I just finished Chapter 15! 🙂 What a blessing to lock arms with you on this journey! Thank you for taking the time to share, Tammy.
Inspiring! Amen to the *Who* behind what we do. I am reading the Bible chronologically this year and utilizing a discipleship journal system to record quick insights. The prevailing subject of late is: Provision (and awe). I love adventures with God and my Jesus-family 🙂
I couldn’t agree more. I’d like to read through it chronologically too. So thankful to be on these adventures with you, Charla! 🙂
Journal Hoarding Support Group – yes! We can compare our great finds and all the empty ones floating around and how to put them all to better use : )
Love it! 🙂
I just realized I was supposed to share the topic that popped up in my head. It’s “hear”, as in hearing God’s voice.
Yes, sister! Thank you for re-visiting to share. ((( HUGS )))