Knowledge And Understanding

 Proverbs 18, touches on the benefit and reward of friendship, while warning of the drawback of living in isolation and self-centeredness. A closed-minded person lacks sound judgement and often spews out unwise words based on their own limited understanding and from their own biased perspective. 
 The ear of the wise man or woman is ever open to the truth. They desire understanding and try to put their knowledge into practice. They are willing to receive instruction rather than being unduly self-assured or exhibiting a 'know-it-all' attitude. They demonstrate a gracious humility rather than egocentric pride and become increasingly interested in what they can learn rather than trumpeting what they already know or think they know.
 Although the unregenerate person can gain much value from reading the book of Proverbs and applying its wisdom in their lives, the underlying principle that should govern our acquisition of Knowledge And Understanding which should impact our entire lives, is to reverence of the Lord in the beauty of His holiness; doing so will not only influence the lives we live today in a positive way, but will enable us to reap glorious rewards in the eternal ages to come.
The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.

Our United Prayer:
Heavenly Father, help us to develop a prudent mind and a humble heart that is growing in grace. Help us to acquire knowledge and understanding, and the wisdom to know how best to utilize our skills and all that we have learned. Open our eyes to see wonderful things in Your law, may our ears be quick to hear Your voice and our hearts ready to obey Your will. Thank You that the book of Proverbs teaches on things like practical morality, pleasing the Lord, the value of righteousness, the dangers of temptation, and the fruit of godly living. May we take these wise Scriptures to heart and live and work each day to Your praise and glory. In Jesus' name we Pray, AMEN.