God's Definition of Wisdom

It's interesting how our society views obedience and the fear of the Lord. We are not encouraged to be obedient to our parents, societal rules or to God and His ways. We must remember, however, that God is continuing to allow Satan to be the prince of the power of the air and he is the one we tend to naturally breathe in without His supernatural enabling.'...following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience—' (Ephesians 2:2 ESV)

In contrast, those who fear the Lord, who have a reverential awe and respect for God, are called happy and will abound in blessings, both personally and within their families! 'Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in obedience to him. You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours. Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will be like olive shoots around your table. Yes, this will be the blessing for the man who fears the Lord.' (Psalm 128:1-4 NIV)

There are other results of honoring and esteeming our Lord and those are wisdom and understanding: 'The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.' (Psalm 111:10 NIV)
'The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.' (Proverbs 9:10 NIV)

I've gotta be honest here. Who really sees that we are wise and understanding in God's eyes? Well, God certainly does and pleasing Him truly is all that matters. However, I tend to want to please people and look good in their eyes. That is the rub...fear of man vs. the fear of God. I want to be up on the latest trends, movies, news, etc. so that I can impress others. (Ouch, that's pride!) Yet, God wants me to hide in His Word and spend much time in prayer so that I become wise in His ways and knowledgeable in who He is and what He desires for me. His definition of wisdom is completely different than our society's definition. Take a look...'Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.' (James 3:13, 17, 18 NIV)

Solomon's wealth and wisdom were legendary in the ancient world. However, read his conclusion in his search for meaning in life: 'Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body. Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.' (Ecclesiastes 12:12-14 NIV)