Scripture is often written as an historical record, yet it also gives us a message for our lives. It can be literal or an allegory or both. Many times we read the Bible from a safe distance, discussing the history, and thinking of others who could benefit. But sacred writing can only benefit us if we are willing to understand the allegory and apply the principals to our lives.

How do we walk in these principals-- in the ‘Wisdom of God’ in our life? The 8th and 9th chapters of Proverbs say ‘Does not Wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice?’Wisdom is the word Chokmah in Hebrew or Sofia in Greek (both are in the feminine form). Proverbs refers to Wisdom as ‘she’. Not as a literal woman,but an allegory -- a message for our life. Proverbs 9:1 says Wisdom has ‘hewn out’ its seven pillars for her house and implies they are cut or carved from stone. It takes diligent work to cut or carve stone into shape.

As each pillar is cut and carved -- as each pillar is worked on and perfected-- Wisdom is developed and housed, or seated in the heart that is willing to do the work.

Pillar 1 -- Extends an Invitation

Chapt 8:1-4 Wisdom calls out to us and invites us into relationship.
Understanding beckons to us which means we are able to see what is ‘under the standing’ of the situation. We can see what the problem is resting on -- see its source and not focus on the symptoms. We must accept the invitation to learn this if we want to extend the invitation.

Pillar 2 -- Speaks Truth

Chapt 8:6-9 There is a way to speak truth that helps and heals and there is away to speak truth that brings pain and heartache. Wisdom knows the difference. Once spoken, words can never return to the speaker unheard. Wisdom speaks the truth in a way that builds up, is positive and considers the heart.

Pillar 3 -- Gives Counsel

Chapt 8:14 Wisdom speaks with understanding and power. She uses power to influence for good. Wisdom understands the power of the invitation and does not speak where it is not invited. Until the listener can ask the question he or she will never understand the answer. Wisdom waits for the appropriate time.

Pillar 4 -- Has Authority

Chapt 8:15-16 Wisdom has authority over Kings and Princes. Kings and Princes do not have authority over Wisdom. Wisdom does not bend to their desires and understands that it must have ‘self’ under authority while respecting and honouring others.

Pillar 5 -- Walks in Righteousness

Chapt 8:19-21 Wisdom knows that righteousness means to live in a morally upright and virtuous way, having authority over one’s behaviour and emotions -- being willing to look inside and meet the ‘me’ that has been hidden away and to become honest about our lives and our relationships. Living in harmony in the Kingdom of God is the continuous journey of our life.

Pillar 6 -- Accepts the ‘Appointment’ or‘Calling’

Chapt 8:22-23 Wisdom was with God at the beginning, as the first of His works, and has an intimate relationship with God. She is confident in her appointment or calling and allows time to learn what is needed to carry out that calling. Wisdom accepts the invitation and the calling to be joined with others in the Kingdom of God.

Pillar 7 -- Participates in Creation

Chapt 8:22-31 Wisdom recognises and appreciates all that God has created. She appreciates the creative gift that she has received and uses it. Wisdom is not afraid to move in life, but looks for direction, for the light on the path-- creating and carving out life as she moves. Everything is creation -- ideas, thoughts, life, friendships, family, children -- all is creation. Wisdom participates in creation and participates in life.

Do we have the courage to carve out these seven pillars in our own lives? These pillars support the house and it will not stand without them.

We all desire to experience the unity, safety, comfort and relationships in the Kindom of God. To live together in that Kingdom we must learn it’s culture and continue to grow spiritually and emotionally as we encourage each other and are encouraged.
We have eternity to enjoy living in that Kingdom and we are living in eternity NOW!

Blessings!