The overriding thought here is for us to listen – “listen to me…listen to my instruction.” That’s something many of us find hard to do!
I can get so busy doing things or just be so sure about my own plans that slowing down to “listen” doesn’t come easy. Maybe that’s why Wisdom felt the need to say it twice!
But with this instruction, Wisdom also points out the benefits of our listening – “blessed are those who keep my ways…and be wise” Blessings and wisdom are ours if we’re willing to simply pay attention to what Wisdom is saying to us.
But, in case we don’t get the picture, she ends this thought with a warning – “do not disregard it.” Yet, she doesn’t say “…or else…!” like I would!
The entire chapter is a positive message about who Wisdom is and the power Wisdom has to do good for us. But while there are benefits to hanging with Wisdom, we also need to know there are consequences if I decide to go my own way instead.
I get to choose what I’m going to do about all this every day…one day at a time. And it all starts with just “listening!”