Fear of the Lord Is the Beginning of Wisdom

What It Means

In the Bible, fearing the Lord does not mean being terrified of God. It means knowing that God is holy, powerful, good, and worthy of our respect and obedience. Wisdom begins when we stop thinking, “I know best,” and start asking, “What does God say is best?” For kids, wisdom can look like telling the truth even when it is hard, listening when a parent gives a good instruction, choosing kind words when you are upset, walking away from something you know is wrong, and asking God for help before making a choice. Proverbs 2:6 says that the Lord gives wisdom, and James 1:5 tells us that when we need wisdom, we can ask God for it. Wisdom is not just knowing lots of facts. It is learning to make good choices with God at the center.

Think About It

Think about one choice you may have to make today. What would it look like to pause and ask, “What would please God?” before you decide?

Activity

"Practice this simple prayer before one decision today: “God, please give me wisdom and help me choose what is right.” Then talk with a parent or trusted grown-up about the choice."

Prayer

Dear God, You are wise, good, and holy. Help me respect You, listen to Your Word, and remember that I do not always know what is best. Please give me wisdom when I make choices. Help me tell the truth, be kind, obey what is right, and ask You for help. Thank You that You love to guide me. Amen.