“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.”
— Proverbs 4:7 (KJV)
Have you ever noticed how the world chases everything except what truly matters? We pursue money, recognition, possessions, and success—but Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, tells us in Proverbs 4:7 that the real treasure is wisdom.
He doesn’t say “get wealth” or “get comfort.” He says, “Get wisdom.” And not only that—he urges, “with all thy getting, get understanding.”
Let’s dive deep into what that means, why it’s so powerful, and how it can transform your walk with God.
🌿 What Does “Wisdom is the Principal Thing” Mean?
When Solomon calls wisdom “the principal thing,” he’s saying it’s the foundation—the starting point of everything good and lasting in life.
In Hebrew, the word translated “principal” (רֵאשִׁית re’shith) means first, beginning, or chief.
So in essence, this verse could be read as:
“The very first thing you should seek above all else is wisdom.”
Wisdom isn’t just knowledge—it’s the ability to apply God’s truth rightly in daily life.
It’s seeing the world from God’s perspective rather than our own limited view.
Proverbs 9:10 echoes this perfectly:
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.”
To “fear” the Lord means to revere, honor, and submit to Him. That’s where wisdom begins—when we decide God’s way is always better than ours.
💡 Wisdom vs. Understanding: What’s the Difference?
It’s easy to lump them together, but Solomon intentionally separates wisdom and understanding.
- Wisdom is knowing what is right.
- Understanding is knowing why it’s right and how to apply it.
For example:
You may have wisdom that tells you forgiveness is essential.
But understanding shows you why forgiveness frees your heart, heals your relationships, and aligns you with God’s nature.
In Proverbs 2:6, we see their divine connection:
“For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.”
In other words, both wisdom and understanding flow directly from God. They’re not earned by intellect or education—they’re gifts of grace for those who seek Him sincerely.
🔥 Why Wisdom is Worth the Pursuit
Solomon knew something most people overlook: wisdom leads to everything else we truly desire.
He writes in Proverbs 3:13–18:
“Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.
For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold.
She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.”
Wisdom guards you from foolish decisions, strengthens your faith, brings peace to your home, and deepens your relationship with God.
Understanding then allows you to walk out that wisdom—turning spiritual insight into godly action.
When Solomon asked God for wisdom instead of riches or power (1 Kings 3:9–13), God was so pleased that He gave Solomon both wisdom and abundance.
It’s a powerful reminder that when we seek wisdom first, everything else follows.
🌾 How to “Get Wisdom” and “Get Understanding”
- Start with Reverence for God “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge” (Proverbs 1:7).
Recognize God as the ultimate source of truth. Let His Word be your compass. - Study Scripture Daily
Every verse in Proverbs is a seed of divine wisdom. Reading the Word daily is how you water those seeds.
Let verses like James 1:5 encourage you: “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God… and it shall be given him.” - Pray for Discernment
Don’t just ask for answers—ask for understanding. Pray, “Lord, teach me not just what to do, but why it matters.” - Learn from Godly Counsel
Proverbs 15:22 says, “Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.”
Surround yourself with wise believers who sharpen your spirit. - Apply What You Learn
Knowledge becomes wisdom only when it’s lived out. As Jesus said in John 13:17, “If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.”
✨ A Final Word: Living a Life of Wisdom
Proverbs 4:7 isn’t a casual suggestion—it’s a divine command for anyone who desires to live a life pleasing to God.
Wisdom and understanding are not luxuries; they’re spiritual necessities.
When you make them the cornerstone of your life, everything else aligns—your choices, relationships, peace of mind, and eternal direction.
“Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her.”
— Proverbs 4:8 (KJV)
So, beloved, embrace wisdom like a close friend.
Seek understanding as a lifelong companion.
Because in doing so, you are not just gaining insight—you’re walking hand in hand with the very heart of God.
🙏 Reflection Question:
What area of your life right now most needs God’s wisdom—and are you willing to ask Him for understanding in it?