So sophisticated, aren't they?

Worldly sophistication; it is so seductive. You own it by cultivating the right look, the right tastes in fashion and music, the right kind of attitude- slightly bored, ever cynical. But the glitter is superficial for sophisticates do not have the richness of character that belongs to the wise. A few moments with one truly wise makes a person feel like he's reached solid ground, found a treasure.  Sophistication is to wisdom what pyrites are to gold. Pyrites are a brass-colored mineral commonly called 'fool's gold.' Though it gleams, it is essentially worthless. It can deceive those looking for the real thing at first. Just a little bit of heat quickly reveals the difference between real gold and iron pyrites! The authenticity of the character of the wise is revealed in the fiery tests of life.

The Bible points us down the road of wisdom. It does not necessarily run through Princeton's portals! The Word says that 'the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom!" Here's the context of that statement.
"Wisdom has built her spacious house with seven pillars. She has prepared a great banquet, mixed the wines, and set the table. She has sent her servants to invite everyone to come. She calls out from the heights overlooking the city. “Come home with me,” she urges the simple. To those without good judgment, she says, “Come, eat my food, and drink the wine I have mixed. Leave your foolish ways behind, and begin to live; learn how to be wise.” Anyone who rebukes a mocker will get a smart retort. Anyone who rebukes the wicked will get hurt. So don’t bother rebuking mockers; they will only hate you. But the wise, when rebuked, will love you all the more. Teach the wise, and they will be wiser. Teach the righteous, and they will learn more. Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in understanding. Wisdom will multiply your days and add years to your life. If you become wise, you will be the one to benefit. If you scorn wisdom, you will be the one to suffer." (Proverbs 9:1-12, NLT)

God invites us to His counsel. He says, "live with humility, with integrity, with obedience. This is wisdom." Sophisticates learn how to project their power, to shrewdly navigate legalities that protect their profit, to work at being submissive to no one.  Those who are 'wise in their own eyes' mock their counselors. Sophisticates appear often to be 'winning' at life!

In the 73rd Psalm, the writer opens his song with a lament over the apparent success of those who are wise to the ways of the world. "Pretentious with arrogance, they wear the latest fashions in violence, Pampered and overfed, decked out in silk bows of silliness. They jeer, using words to kill; they bully their way with words. They’re full of hot air, loudmouths disturbing the peace. People actually listen to them—can you believe it? Like thirsty puppies, they lap up their words." (Psalm 73:6-10, The Message)

As he settles himself in prayer, considering the promises and eternal values of God, he discerns that true wisdom is better than momentary acclaim. "When I was beleaguered and bitter, totally consumed by envy, I was totally ignorant, a dumb ox in your very presence. I’m still in your presence, but you’ve taken my hand. You wisely and tenderly lead me, and then you bless me. You’re all I want in heaven! You’re all I want on earth!" (Psalm 73:21-25, The Message)

Do you desire wisdom? Then, invite the Holy Spirit to lead you to His table. Open the Word and let the counsel of God transform your mind with wisdom. Though some may regard you with contempt because you do not adopt the superficial pretensions of the wisdom of the age, do not be deterred. "Wisdom will multiply your days!"

If you lack knowledge, go to school.
If you lack wisdom, get on your knees!
Knowledge is not wisdom.

Wisdom is the proper use of knowledge.
    - Vance Havner

Here's a word from the Word, May this passage increase your hunger for wisdom.

"Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her. “I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion. To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech. Counsel and sound judgment are mine; I have understanding and power. ... by me princes govern, and all nobles who rule on earth. I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me. With me are riches and honor, enduring wealth and prosperity."
(Proverbs 8:10-14; 16-18, NIV)