For the Graduate, but a Reminder for Us All.

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10).

In these days of graduation, marked by tassels turned, diplomas handed out, and celebrations well earned, we find ourselves honoring the pursuit of knowledge, and we should. Students have studied, written, tested, and grown. Minds have been stretched, and questions have been asked. This is good. We thank God for minds that can think and hearts that long to understand.

But as we celebrate the pursuit of knowledge, let us also remember that knowledge is not enough. Scripture reminds us that “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). Wisdom is not just knowing facts or acing exams. Wisdom is knowing how to live. Wisdom is knowing who to trust, what to value, and how to walk through this world with humility and grace.

·       Knowledge fills the mind, but wisdom forms the soul.

·       Knowledge understands facts; wisdom discerns truth.

·       Knowledge can quote law; wisdom seeks justice.

·       Knowledge speaks, wisdom listens.

·       Knowledge fills the air with answers; wisdom asks the right questions.

·       Knowledge is knowing God exists; wisdom is walking with Him.

·       Knowledge defends ideas; wisdom defends dignity.

·       Knowledge seeks mastery; wisdom seeks meaning.

·       Knowledge accumulates; wisdom integrates.

·       Knowledge dares to know more; wisdom dares to be transformed.

·       Knowledge reaches the mind; wisdom reaches the soul.

In a world overflowing with data, may we be people who seek not just answers but understanding, not just information but transformation. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and from this come wellsprings of life, purpose, and peace.

I pray we all will remember, before we ever earned a grade, solved a problem, or asked a question, God already called us beloved. Wisdom begins with resting in that truth. In the end, wisdom is not an idea but a person, Jesus Christ, who teaches not just by parable but by presence, cross, and resurrection.

Prayer:

Gracious God, Author of all truth and source of all wisdom, as we pursue knowledge with open minds, grant us the gift of wisdom to guide our hearts. Let our learning serve not only ourselves but the common good. May we grow in compassion, humility, and reverence for the mystery of Your presence in all things.

In Christ’s holy name we pray,

Amen.

Have a great week!

-Pastor Corey