Listen, Can You Hear Her Calling?

Day Seventeen

Listen, Can You Hear Her Calling? (Read Proverbs 8:1-11)

"We think we listen, but very rarely do we listen with real understanding, true empathy. Yet listening, of this very special kind, is one of the most potent forces for change that I know." ~ Carl Rogers

Our reading today introduces us to wisdom and how amazing she is. Is it surprising that the author uses a feminine reference to wisdom? The author provides us with her address and motivation for calling out to those with the humility to listen. Listening is merely impossible when your ears are full of self-wax.

Wisdom is a divine herald from God who came to be heard by all; that's why she "SHOUTS" so she can be heard from every direction. She also shares her location so she can be easily found. Her favorite place to position herself is at the turning point, where she gives precise directions on which way to go and fierce warnings if you choose the alternative.

Her proclamations are for everyone to hear, and she emphasizes her instructions to the "simple" people and "fools." With this group, she is prudent and wise and helps make uncommon sense become common sense. Wisdom is also a great encourager and motivates her audience to listen closely to her words for understanding so they are moved to the application process.

What wisdom shares is delivered flawlessly. She shares God's truth honestly, with zero exaggeration or fabrication. Her message is clear, direct, and upright, with no twists or surprises, only a message of depth and weight, complete with God's promises.

⁴ "I call to you, to all of you!
    I raise my voice to all people.
⁵ You simple people, use good judgment.
    You foolish people, show some understanding.
⁶ Listen to me! For I have important things to tell you.
    Everything I say is right,
⁷ for I speak the truth
    and detest every kind of deception.

"Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens." ~ Jimi Hendrix

How would you rate your listening skills? Uncertain? Ask the people closest to you; they will willingly offer their assessment of your listening ability or your desire to listen, learn, and change. For further analysis, look closely with a mentor at your past actions, which will validate your commitment to self-reliance or dependence upon God.

Today, you are invited to pull up a chair and look into the eyes of wisdom. By listening intentionally, you will absorb a message straight from God. Are you ready? Give it a shot; you'll be glad you did, and so will everyone around you.