Make it Count Print

Pastor David Koop

Most of us know what we want and have some goals for 2008. And yes, we want to make it count in 2008. In order to make it count we will need to pursue wisdom like never before.

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Proverbs 4:7a
Getting wisdom is the most important thing you can do!

The example of the axe: to make it count we are going to have to sharpen the axe.

Ecclesiastes10:10
If the ax is dull, and one does not sharpen the edge, then he must use more strength; but wisdom brings success.

Ecclesiastes 8:5 
Whoever obeys his commands will avoid trouble. The mind of a wise person will know the right time and the right way ‹to act›.

If you want to make your marriage count—get wisdom.
If you want to make your children count—get wisdom.
If you want to make your community count – get wisdom.
If you want to make your job/business count – get wisdom.
If you want to make your date count – get wisdom.
If you want to make your life count – get wisdom!

  1. What is wisdom?
    1. It is more than information and knowledge, the mastering of certain facts, information, concepts and ideas.
    2. Information may have informed us but it has not reformed us. Information only informs it takes wisdom to transform.
    3. Webster’s definition: a: Accumulated knowledge whether it be philosophic or scientific; b: Ability to discern inner qualities and relationships: insight; c: Good sense: judgment, common sense in decision making; d: a wise attitude, course of action.
    4. It is seeing and responding to life from God’s perspective.
    5. It is a gift from God.
    6. It is a spirit so it is spiritually given and spiritually received.
    7. It can be found, it can grow and it can be lost.
      1. Proverbs 1:5
        Let those who are wise listen to these proverbs and become even wiser. And let those who understand receive guidance.
      2. Proverbs 4:18
        But the path of the just is like the shining sun, that shines ever brighter unto the perfect day.
  2. Why are we missing wisdom?
    1. Our desire for instant gratification.
      1. Proverbs 19:2
        Zeal without knowledge is not good; a person who moves too quickly may go the wrong way.
      2. Proverbs 14:15
        Only simpletons believe everything they are told! The prudent carefully consider their steps.
      3. Proverbs 18:13
        What a shame, what folly, to give advice before listening to the facts!
    2. Our cavalier attitude.
      1. Proverbs 9:12
        If you become wise, you will be the one to benefit. If you scorn wisdom, you will be the one to suffer.
      2. Proverbs 12:15
        Fools think they need no advice, but the wise listen to others.
  3. What are the benefits to seeking and acting on wisdom?
    1. Favor from the Lord. As we act in wisdom God will enable and sustain what we are doing. (Proverbs 8:35)
    2. Protection from bad decisions and enemies that try to destroy us. (Proverbs 2:10-19, 4:6-12, 28:26)
    3. A long life. (Proverbs 3:16)
    4. Power to deal with circumstances and people. (Proverbs 21:22, 24:5)
    5. A healthy life. (Proverbs 2:10, 3:17,18, 24:14)
    6. Enduring wealth. (Proverbs 8:18,21)
    7. Healthy families. (Proverbs 23:24)
    8. Ability to lead others. (Proverbs 8:15,16, 28:2)
  4. What are the keys to opening the treasure of wisdom?
    1. Humility sets the stage for the arrival of wisdom. If you have a prideful attitude wisdom will never ring your doorbell.
      1. Proverbs 11:2
        Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.
      2. Walking in humility is a two-lane highway. Humility before God and before others. (Proverbs 8:20,21)
    2. The fear of God. A profound respect and reverence for God. This means taking God seriously and staying within the boundaries He lays out. We no longer try to sneak past His commandments.
      1. Proverbs 1:7
        The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
      2. Psalm 111:10 
        The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.
      3. Beginning is from the Hebrew word “techillah” which means the breakthrough point in the process of boring through something.
      4. Isaiah 33:6
        In that day he will be your sure foundation, providing a rich store of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge. The fear of the Lord is the key to this treasure.