Key scripture – “The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.” (Psalm 19:7, ESV).

Pastor, James McDonald says that God speaks to us through all He has created and all He has written. Psalm 19:7 is prompting us to consider the faithfulness of Scripture in moving us from ignorance to wisdom.

The word “testimony” depicts God as witnessing to Himself. While we can learn from other believers’ experiences, this is the Lord Himself taking the witness stand and testifying, “This is who I am. This is what I’m like. This is what I will do.” God is not required to tell us about Himself, but He does, and His love for us ensures that He reveals what we need to know.

This verse also affirms that the Lord’s self-revelation is sure—it’s dependable, durable, and trustworthy. That His Word is the real thing and consistent with His character.

But we all share a common setback. We aren’t just stubborn and hardhearted, we’re naïve and foolish. We’re simple, therefore, the testimony of the Lord is so sure, it “makes wise the simple.”

The word simple alludes to an open or unguarded mind—and simple people are easily led astray. A simple mind is like a house with the front and back doors wide open. An idea strolls in and is embraced without question. Then another thought blows in, and the simple person switches mental gears. They say things like, “Everyone says this guy is right so I’m going to follow this “expert” now,” and they pin their hopes on the latest featured guest, acclaimed author, or self-help program. This simple mind can’t discern what matters, because it doesn’t have the capacity to feel the weight of what is wise and substantive vs. light, fluffy, and foolish.

In contrast, a wise mind opens judiciously, discerns the value of ideas, and embraces godly wisdom. That is what the testimony of the Lord does – it is so sure, it can transform a foolish, vacillating, undiscerning person into a wise and stable one.

We’ve all been that deer-in-the-headlights kind of person—an easy mark for worldly thinking. But when God’s Word pours wisdom into our lives, it becomes evident in our comments, insights, and understanding. Others may marvel over the transformation, but we know where it comes from: regular exposure to His powerful, life-giving Word.

Wisdom isn’t related to intelligence, academic training, or even life experience. It comes from God, and He gives it generously to all who seek and ask (Proverbs 8:17; James 1:5-8).

“The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom, And his tongue speaks justice. The law of his God is in his heart; His steps do not slip.”
(Psalm 37:30-31).

What parts of God’s Word have become more familiar to you in the past year? How have you grown into a wiser person as a result of the truth of Scripture implanted in you? Get on your knees and praise The Lord for that wisdom, then open His Word and let Him fill you with more wisdom.

Pray this – Our Precious Heavenly Father, thank You for rescuing me from the simple darkness of not knowing You at all. Thank You that You are growing me in wisdom and that You offer me more and more as I immerse my mind in Your Word. In Proverbs we are told, “For the Lord gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding. He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk in integrity.” (Proverbs 2:6-7). Forgive me for placing pride in my own insights. Thank You that Your wisdom is an inexhaustible supply. I can never reach the end of knowing You and learning from You. I know that “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; A good understanding have all those who do His commandments; His praise endures forever.” (Psalm 111:10). Teach me to number my days so that I start right now developing a heart of wisdom. (Psalm 90:12). Teach me how to follow Your commandments. Thank You for wisdom personified in Your Son, Jesus Christ, in Whose Name I pray, Amen.