Understanding “Wisdom is the Principal Thing” in Everyday Language
If you’ve ever read or heard the phrase, “Wisdom is the principal thing,” you might wonder what it really means for your life. This line comes from the Book of Proverbs (4:7) in the Bible, and its message is both clear and powerful: above all else, make wisdom your top priority.
What Does “Principal” Mean Here?
When the verse calls wisdom “principal,” it simply means that wisdom is the most important thing you can have. Think of it like this: if life were a house, wisdom would be the foundation—the thing everything else stands on. In other words, wisdom isn’t just helpful; it’s essential.
· Primary or First Thing: Wisdom should come first before chasing after anything else.
· Supreme or Foundation: It’s the base that helps support all good qualities and decisions.
Why Should Wisdom Be Our Top Priority?
You might be asking, “Why wisdom? Why is it more important than money, popularity, or even knowledge?” Here’s why:
· Guidance and Discernment: Wisdom helps you tell right from wrong and make good choices. It keeps you from making mistakes that lead to regrets later.
· Success and Promotion: When you choose wisely, you’re more likely to find success, respect, and honor. People trust those who show good judgment.
· A Divine Gift: Real wisdom isn’t just about being smart or having facts. Many believe it is a gift from God—an insight that helps you see beyond the obvious and understand life on a deeper level.
What Is Real Wisdom?
It’s easy to mix up wisdom and knowledge, but they aren’t exactly the same. Knowledge is about knowing facts or information. Wisdom is knowing how to use that knowledge in the right way, especially when it comes to making decisions.
· Sound Moral Judgment: It’s about doing the right thing, even when it’s hard.
· Applying Insight: It’s about understanding people and situations, and knowing when to speak, when to act, and when to wait.
How Do You Get Wisdom?
If wisdom is so important, the next question is: how do you get it? Proverbs and other wise teachers offer a simple answer: you have to seek it.
· Be Willing to Learn: Listen to advice, even if it’s tough to hear. Sometimes, correction helps us grow.
· Pursue It: Go after wisdom with the same effort you’d spend chasing your biggest dreams. Make it a goal to keep learning, understanding, and improving.
· Ask for Help: Many believe wisdom is a gift from God—so don’t be afraid to ask for it in prayer or by seeking guidance from wise, experienced people.
· Practice Applying What You Learn: Wisdom comes not just from knowing, but from doing—making choices, learning from them, and seeking to do better each day.
Why Does This Matter?
Imagine having all the money in the world but no idea how to use it well. Or being incredibly smart but always making decisions that hurt yourself or others. Without wisdom, everything else loses its value. Wisdom leads to a happier, more meaningful life because it helps you navigate life’s challenges, build better relationships, and avoid unnecessary pain.
Final Thoughts
Proverbs 4:7 tells us that wisdom is worth every effort. It’s not just about knowing facts, but about living well—making good choices, treating others with kindness, and seeking understanding. So, if you want a life that’s steady, strong, and guided, make wisdom the foundation. Keep learning, keep asking, and keep growing—because wisdom truly is the principal thing.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 