You have heard the saying, “you are what you eat.”
It is a phrase intended to trigger thoughts about wise eating decisions. As a child, I did not find it particularly persuasive. The warm, sweet aroma of a fresh baked cake, pie, cookies or brownies was definitely more enticing.
Why be wise, when I could indulge and be delighted?
In the context of food, making a wise choice is easily misconstrued as self-deprivation. It appears to be total sacrifice without any gain. Careful, now. Appearances can be deceiving.
This past Sunday was Easter. I was joyfully distributing goody boxes to children at church. One little girl held her box, with a clinched fist, in her left hand. She saw me hand a small bag of M&M’s to another person. I saw her fidget.
“You want some M&M’s,” I asked.
She nodded yes a bit sheepishly. “I feel you baby. I love candy, too. Here you are.”
While it seemed harmless for her, it was a struggle for me. I still love candy. I have a sweet tooth. I also know that one little bite of candy can bring on a huge binge.
And there goes my willpower … down the drain.
Today the statement, “you are what you eat” has new meaning. I cannot be so quick to indulge. I must think about the wise thing to do.
My mentality about making wise choices has matured. Not only when it comes to eating. The statement is broader. It applies to life spiritually, emotionally and physically.
I understand that wisdom is a jewel—a precious jewel. And the gains of wise choices are more substantial than the consequences of indulgence.
Now I must consider … what is the wise thing to do?
King Solomon understood the value of wisdom in his youth. He had an opportunity to receive anything he wanted.
Anything. He asked for a discerning heart. He longed to be wise so that he could be an effective leader, distinguishing right from wrong.
Solomon’s desire pleased God. His wish was granted. In addition, he was greatly rewarded in riches and honor. There would be no other king like Solomon.
What made wisdom so desirable for Solomon?
I can only venture.
What makes wisdom so desirable for me? Here are a few points for your consideration.
- Wisdom defines your morality. Exercising wisdom is a deliberate thought process weighing right versus wrong. It tugs at your heart and makes you clarify your values before taking action.
- Wisdom leads to righteousness. A wise decision aligns with doing the right things, not necessarily the easy ones. This means taking the high road rather than the low one.
- Wisdom honors humanity. Making a wise choice is honoring yourself and others. It upholds the Golden Rule: “Do unto others have you would have others do unto you.”
- Wisdom exalts God. Using wisdom creates a reliance on God. It is bypassing your natural inclination and drawing strength from a greater source. Leaning on God for direction acknowledges His holy presence and confirms that He alone is all-knowing.
Proverbs 3:13-18
Blessed are those who find wisdom,
those who gain understanding,
for she is more profitable than silver
and yields better returns than gold.
She is more precious than rubies;
nothing you desire can compare with her.
Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor.
Her ways are pleasant ways,
and all her paths are peace.
She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her;
those who hold her fast will be blessed.
What is the value of wisdom in your life? Please share your thoughts in the comments section, I’d love to hear from you.
Evelyn Summerville
I write about living and leading with excellence
