What does leadership look like when it embraces wisdom? (134-2)

Leadership begins with a leader’s thoughts even before their actions. When a leader’s mind and attitude are right, they position themselves to lead well. Read Proverbs 8:1-36.

Solomon uses language in Proverbs 8 that is related to developing an exceptional skill but when translated into English the word wisdom is used. Not all leaders think about wisdom as a character trait that needs to be carefully cultivated just as they would develop and cultivate a skill. Certainly, wisdom often comes as the result of long experience but the leader who gains wisdom by making poor decisions and learning from them is farther behind than the leader who seeks the right kind of wisdom from the start.

If wisdom, similar to a skill, is a character that can be developed by diligent work, every leader should work at developing this trait so their thoughts are controlled by wisdom and the actions that flow out of those thoughts will have excellent results similar to the work of a fine craftsman.

Leaders sometime make it sound like it is hard to become wise and yet God says wisdom is everywhere if only leaders will pay attention. Wisdom is God’s gift to every leader given freely and abundantly; “Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice? On the heights along the way, where paths meet, she takes her stand; beside the gates leading into the city, at the entrances, she cries aloud” (vv 1-3). In the book of James God tells us “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5). God’s Word gives every indication that He wants a leader to become wise so their actions can be controlled by wisdom.

In Proverbs 8 wisdom is portrayed as a woman calling out for all to embrace her. What would your leadership look like if verses 15-21 became a reality because you embraced wisdom? Use your imagination for just a moment and think of wisdom as a fine, respected, sought after lady who takes you by the shoulders, looks directly into your eyes and speaks verses 32-36 to you.