“By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures.” Proverbs 24:3-4

In this verse and throughout Proverbs we constantly read about wisdom, knowledge and understanding. These are so closely linked and yet different, it makes me think of the trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. All unique in function yet working towards the same goal: to save and sustain your life. 

Wisdom, knowledge and understanding are so similar that it’s sometimes hard to view them independently. As I was reading Proverbs 24:3-4, I used the example of the house to bring clarity: 

Wisdom is the “what to do”. In the verse a house being built is the “what” or action. 

Understanding is the “how to do it”. So far in the verse we know what to do, which is to build a house, now we need the steps to do it, which is the application. Think of this as applying the raw materials. 

Knowledge is the “how to maintain it”. We have the “what” and “how” but a house requires upkeep. Knowledge is the continued learning, it’s the facts that help you daily.

Wisdom, knowledge and understanding is the foundation and force behind all creation! Creation itself is a testament to God’s wisdom and power. Look at Proverbs 3:19-20: 

“By wisdom the Lord laid the earth’s foundations, by understanding he set the heavens in place; by his knowledge the watery depths were divided, and the clouds let drop the dew.”

This is why Solomon emphasizes the need for wisdom, the hope that we will apply it to our life and never forget it by hanging it around our neck as a garland and writing it on our hearts. 

Wisdom, knowledge and understanding – unique in function yet working towards the same goal, to save and sustain your life. 

See you next week!