Knowledge or Wisdom

The beginning of an exciting journey is right around the bend for us, and it seems like others have more questions about our endeavor than we do.  I am reminded that when God has asked you to abide in Him and do something He has specifically called you to do, it may seem crazy to someone else.  And that's okay.  Before we begin our adventure of keeping our child at home to educate her, I am praying for God to get my heart and mind in the right place.  Heavy on my thoughts is the contrast between Knowledge and Wisdom.

Straight from the Online "Wikipedia"-

Knowledge is a familiarity with someone or something, which can include facts, information, or descriptions, or skills acquired through experience or education. It can refer to the theoretical or practical understanding of a subject. It can be implicit (as with practical skill or expertise) or explicit (as with the theoretical understanding of a subject); it can be more or less formal or systematic.

Wisdom is a deep understanding and realization of people, things, events or situations, resulting in the ability to apply perceptions, judgements and actions in keeping with this understanding.

Now, to bring these two entities together in line with the Word of God.  Read with me in Proverbs 2: 1-11.

"My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart understanding — indeed, if you call out for insight  and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. 

 For the Lord gives wisdom;
    from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. 
 He holds success in store for the upright,
    he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, 
 for he guards the course of the just
    and protects the way of his faithful ones.

 Then you will understand what is right and just
    and fair—every good path.
For wisdom will enter your heart,
    and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.

 Discretion will protect you,
    and understanding will guard you."

Although knowledge is available to anyone who seeks it, only the wisdom given from the Lord will enable us to truly gain God-honoring knowledge.  This is worth some meditation for every parent.  Education comprises much more than pure "knowing and learning."  Scripture says to seek wisdom first, then God will direct your knowledge. 

I don't want my little girl to know everything.  I don't even know for sure what I want her to know.  But God does.  In these preschool years ahead, we will seek God's wisdom through His word and prayer.  I will incorporate activities to start her mind thinking, but after focusing on these words in scripture, the amount she learns will not be based on tests and books but the character and discernment she learns a day at a time. 

I encourage you to look first to Scripture for questions you have, things you want to know, or things you hope your children learn.  This is the giver of LIFE!