“The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes;”
Psalm 19:7-8 NKJV
In Psalm 19:7 we find this reference that “the testimony of the Lord” turns simple people in wise people. Other translations refer to the commands or decrees of the Lord. But what does “simple” mean? One definition is “someone who leads an uncomplicated life, values genuine connections and experiences over material possessions, and is content with the basics“. There is a lot to commend living life this way, because it very much is in line with what Paul wrote in Philippians 4:12, “I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little“. Living a simple life in this context provides space for living life God’s way. However, Proverbs 14:15, 18 shows a different meaning to being “simple”, comparing them to the “prudent” or wise. “The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps. … The simple inherit folly, but the prudent are crowned with knowledge“. In this context, the “simple” appear to be people who are gullible and easily led into error. But in both definitions for simple people, there is much that the Lord’s testimony and instructions can do to help them, and everyone else in the process because we all need more wisdom at times. So how do people transition from being simple to being wise?
Firstly, it’s a good idea to abandon any thoughts that we are not simple just because we think we are pilgrims, following God and His ways. In Proverbs 11:2, we read, “Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom“. We have to approach God with a humble spirit because otherwise we will stumble over a rock of pride and end up humbled anyway. Associated with this is the importance of having a teachable spirit, which is essential if we are to acquire wisdom. Proverbs 19:20, “Get all the advice and instruction you can, so you will be wise the rest of your life“. When someone offers us advice, we do well to consider it because it may be coming to us directly from the Lord. He loves us and cares for us, and can sometimes use even unbelievers to offer us instructions and advice.
Secondly, there is something in the thought that God knows best and we are foolish if we try and elevate ourselves into His domain. That is not only pride, but it is also a dangerous course of action to try and get matey with God. Psalm 111:10, “Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true wisdom. All who obey his commandments will grow in wisdom. Praise him forever!” Of course, that is not to say that we live our lives afraid that a Heavenly lightning bolt is poised in an angel’s hand, ready to zap us the moment we fall into sin. The word “fear” here is the way we look at God, with awe, humility, and reverence, and giving Him the place deserved by the Creator of the Universe and the One able to look into our very souls. We ascribe to Him all the glory and all the praise.
Thirdly, if we want to become wise, we just have to ask God. James 1:5-6, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind“. It’s no good asking God for the wisdom to deal with a situation and then decide you don’t like His advice and do something else instead.
And lastly, we have to be aware that wisdom comes with a price tag. It’s easy to go with the flow and do things the world’s way, but aligning ourselves to God’s ways, the way of wisdom, may cost us something, a cost we must be prepared to pay. Proverbs 4:7, “The beginning of wisdom is this: get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” And Proverbs 16:16, “How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!”
An epilogue from James 3:17, “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere“. Paul wrote, “Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is“. Underpinning all wise believing people is the reality that only by living God’s way, close in our relationships with Him, will truly transform a “simple” person in someone who is “wise”. There is no other way. No short cuts.
Dear Lord God. Only You have the words of eternal life. Only You can show us the way of wisdom, and we praise and worship You today with deeply grateful hearts. Amen.
Being a Pilgrim 