Where Wisdom Dwells

In the eighth chapter of Proverbs we are told that Wisdom rejoices in the habitable parts of the earth, and her delight is with the sons of men. I know I've read this verse several times, but I've never stopped to think about what this means.

Two questions arise in my mind as I think through this verse. The first is "Why does wisdom rejoice in the habitable parts of the earth, and not the desolate?" In my mind I picture this rejoicing as a dwelling and dancing in the place where one rejoices. If this is the case, it only makes sense that wisdom rejoices in habitation and not without someone or something to rejoice in. There is no benefit to anyone or anything if wisdom rejoices elsewhere and we never see her. She is left on her own, and there is mass-chaos for the rest of creation who has to fend for itself.

The second question on my mind is "Why does wisdom dwell with the mankind, and not the animals?" Inherent here is idea that we as mankind are created as image-bearers of God. God has given us a mind to think, and if wisdom did not delight to dwell with us, the rest of creation would suffer from the same mass-chaos as if wisdom did not visit habitation at all. We are thinking beings, and bear the responsibility of making decisions for the rest of creation. God has set us as His stewards over all of it, and therefore we must act with the wisdom that is offered to all of us.

God gives generously, so let's seek wisdom today, for she will come to those who seek her early.