"Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her; those who hold her fast are called blessed" (Proverbs 3:16-18).
In the Proverbs, wisdom is often personified as a woman. This time, wisdom is seen as a very generous woman who gives with both hands. She holds nothing back. With her right hand she gives longevity in life and with her left hand she gives that which money can buy, as well as honor.
The book of Proverbs never condemns riches gained in honorable ways. Scripture simply teaches that the gain we receive from wisdom is better than riches. God is often pleased to bless His children with material wealth. The ongoing warning of Scripture, however, is that we never pursue the presents of God more than the presence of God.
Generally understood, the kind of life a foolish person lives produces the opposite of longevity, riches, and honor. Life is often cut short for the foolish. The foolish have very little financial gain to show for their efforts. Their lives are all too often marked by dishonor rather than honor.
Those who find wisdom enjoy a fruitful life as illustrated by the fruitful tree. They are the ones who receive the generosity of the two fisted giver known as wisdom. The paths they walk are pleasant and peaceful as well as fruitful and blessed.
Wisdom stands out in the open with wonderful gifts in both hands. The question remains for each of us. Will we receive what she is offering or will we foolishly decline the gifts? Those who take hold of her are the ones who are truly blessed.
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