Prov 8:14 [ESV] I have counsel and sound wisdom; I have insight; I have strength.

 

What a testimony to be able to speak out with confidence. When I read this and stop for a while to consider these words then I hear such a prophetic edge to the words that Solomon was recording thousands of years before Christ was even born.

I also ask myself what my testimony would be in this vein? What would I say? Perhaps I could say “I have some experience and have gained some understanding from the mistakes I have made in my life. I have some limited hindsight and insight, and even more limited foresight. I have only a little strength”.

 

However – I am on first name terms with someone who has counsel and sound wisdom, as well as 100% insight and limitless strength. He is my friend, my savour, and my Lord. 

 

What about you? Who do you have as a friend with these abilities? 

 

I can tell story after story of protection, and provision, and peace (in the storms of life). He is magnificent, He is beautiful, and He is closer than a brother. He is the Lion of Judah, The Lily of the Valley, The Rose of Sharon, the King of Kings and The Prince of Peace. He is the Lamb of God, the Lord or Lords and the Son of Man. There is no-one like Him.

 

 

 

KNOWLEDGE

The Greek word – Phronésis [insight/intelligenece] refers to a type of wisdom or understanding that involves practical insight and prudence. It is the ability to discern the right course of action in various situations, combining both intellectual and moral elements. This term is often associated with the capacity to make sound judgments and decisions based on knowledge and experience.

Cultural and Historical Background: In ancient Greek culture, phronésis was highly valued as a virtue, often linked to the concept of practical wisdom or prudence. It was considered essential for effective leadership and governance. In the biblical context, phronésis is seen as a gift from God, enabling believers to live righteously and make decisions that align with divine will. The concept is closely related to the Hebrew idea of “hokmah” (wisdom), which encompasses both knowledge and the skilful application of that knowledge in daily life.

 

 

 

UNDERSTANDING

Let’s pick one word from this verse to look closer at and see if that can help us gain a deeper insight into how God would love us to live?

The word used for “insight” is pronounced as “biynah” in Hebrew, and in the LXX the word used is φρόνησις [Phronesis – intelligence]. This word appears twice in the New Testament and has the meaning of “understanding which leads to right action”. See Luke 1:17 and Eph 1:8.

 

 

 

WISDOM 

Do I take time to consdier what I carry as a person and to be able to confidently communicate that to others in a humble way?

 

STRENGTHS THOUGHT: Self-Assurance as a Gallup Strength will back yourself, even when others maybe don’t. It’s important to take people on the journey with you, otherwise it may be stubborness or arrogance that is at work rather than self-assurance.

 

 

Allan’s Unauthorised Version –  I have plans, purposes and advice and success and victory with sound judgement’ I have discernment and understanding; I have power and might.

 

I have counsel – I have plans, purposes and advice

and sound wisdom – and success, and victory with sound judgement;

I have insight – I have discernment and understanding;

I have strength –  I have power and might.

 

PRAYER: Father, thank you for today. Help me to fully embrace all that you are to me and all that you have for me.

 

To chat to me as a professional coach/mentor – allan@theallankey.com

 

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