Today’s reading: Psalm 109-111; Romans 16
10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever! Psalm 111:10
27 to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen. Romans 16:27
True wisdom is from God and of God. We will not find it apart from Him or without Him.
Psalm 111 praises the works of God and tells us there is value in studying them. It seems that the work of scientists and historians are both included here, not to mention educators who train students to do these kinds of work (vs. 2, 4). If God’s glory is seen in what He has done in creation and in providence, then it stands to reason that He is glorified when His works are studied, remembered, and discussed.
The Christian need not hesitate to follow professions which can bring glory to God, but he must beware of careers where he is forced to reject the very basis for wisdom, which is the fear of God. There can be tremendous pressure to conform to the status quo, the assumption of a Godless universe self-created by a combination of time and chance. What would be the purpose or benefit of studying such a random cosmos? Can it even be done?
Here is where the godly man or woman, one who fears the Lord, has an advantage. The believer understands that God is wise, that is, He selects the best means to accomplish the highest ends. The Christian researcher can pray for wisdom, praise God for the order and beauty of His works, and, as Johannes Kepler is quoted as saying, “think God’s thoughts after Him.” [1]
All good and honest work done well glorifies God and benefits mankind. Seek to use whatever profession or vocation you have to serve Him wisely.
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