We do not enjoy seasons of suffering, but there are certain lessons that can only be learned as we traverse the crucible of adversity. As Job interacted with his friends regarding the reasons for his tribulations, we read his brief discourse on the value and meaning of wisdom as he sought to make sense of his suffering:

But where can wisdom be found? And where is the place of understanding? (Job 28:12)

Mankind often searches for wisdom in creation and seeks to master the world around us, but Job discovered the true meaning of wisdom is found in the Creator rather than creation:

Mankind does not know its value, nor is it found in the land of the living. (Job 28:13)

Job described how people strive to find and refine precious metals. They may have knowledge, but they do not realize the true value of wisdom. Biblical wisdom may be considered as the application of knowledge in a way that honors God. Biblical wisdom is not simply the accumulation of information, rather, it is the application of knowledge encompassing the practical knowledge of how to live righteously before God. This may be in contrast to the wisdom of the world. Wisdom has been described as the quality that keeps you from getting into situations where you need it.

When we’re going through a crucible our tendency is to ask, “Why is this happening to me?” Job never knew the reason for his suffering. When we are going through a difficult season the better question is to ask, “Lord, what are you teaching me?” Hardship can teach us some long- lasting lessons. For example, the foolish person does not forgive nor forget and the naive will forgive and forget, but the wise person will forgive, but not forget.

We are commanded in Scripture to diligently pursue wisdom, so why don’t we diligently seek after wisdom? One of the reasons may be that we don’t realize the value of wisdom:

She (wisdom) is more precious than jewels, and nothing you desire compares with her. (Proverbs 3:15)

Jesus enjoined us to seek after the kingdom of heaven like a merchant seeking fine pearls. When he finds the pearl of great price, he goes and sells everything so he can buy it. We must realize the value of wisdom and not become sidetracked by the incidental affairs of life. We must also realize that wisdom makes us responsible. If we know the right thing to do, but we do not do it, then we experience the guilt of our sin. If we are to be wise, then we must act in a wise manner. Job concluded his reflection on wisdom with reverence toward God and the necessity of obeying His teaching:

And to mankind He said, “Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to turn away from evil is understanding.” (Job 28:28)