Many understand that wisdom often incorporates knowledge and experience. Since the acquisition of knowledge takes time, and experience underscores time, then older adults often gain wisdom that our youth do not have as of yet. The Bible emphasizes that youth need to heed the wisdom from those who are older and more mature (1 Kings 12:1-15). This is why the book of Proverbs begins with instructions from a father to a son (Prov. 1-10) and ends with the virtue of a mother (Prov. 31). In other words, our youth need to listen more to the wisdom of their parents! Yet, it seems to this author that our current generations need this lesson more than ever. What is the relationship between wisdom and youth? Let us seek to answer this question by noting some things in Proverbs 8.
First, we see the open cry of wisdom (8:1-4). The fact that she cries and puts forth her voice indicates the openness of wisdom. Solomon then points out the variety of places where one may find her—high places, paths, gates and doors—illustrating that one may find wisdom everywhere! Therefore, our youth need to have their eyes wide open to the situations around them and be able to recall instruction from their parents and other wise adults to detect her open call. Usually, all it takes is the willingness to listen (1:5-6; 2:1-5). Thus, youth have no excuse when it comes to acquiring wisdom—her open call renders their excuse, “Oh, but this is just the way that I am!” useless!
Second, we see the upright cry of wisdom (8:5-9). Wisdom does not hide behind falsehood, but is always honest and righteous. Youth often face temptation from their peers and friends to join them in dishonest ventures (1:10-19), but youth need to learn the cautious wisdom from those who are older and wiser—“Evil companionships corrupt good morals” (1 Cor. 15:33, ASV).
Third, we see the valuable cry of wisdom (8:10- 11). As Solomon would often reiterate, wisdom is more valuable than silver, gold or any precious jewel (3:15; 16:16). Therefore, Solomon is able to place the acquisition of true wisdom as the principal object to gain in life (4:5-7).
Fourth, we see the uncompromising cry of wisdom (8:12-13). When it comes to the cry of wisdom, there can be no compromising between good and evil! “The fear of the Lord,” which is “the beginning of wisdom” (1:7; 15:33), dictates that I must hate and oppose all forms of evil. Youth need to learn this lesson early, as they will be tempted often with that which is ungodly.
Fifth, we see the strong cry of wisdom (8:14-16). Wisdom is not weak; doing that which is right is always strong! Youth may confuse that which looks weak in the worldly eyes to be such, but wisdom understands that godly strength is always strong, no matter how it appears in the public eye!
Finally, we see the blessed cry of wisdom (8:17- 36). This chapter of wisdom closes with various statements made as to the by-product of wisdom, or the effect in the life of one who acquires wisdom. Parents need to model this wisdom so that youth can see such and learn by it.
Therefore, the relationship of youth and wisdom can be gleaned from this cry of wisdom—it is open, upright, valuable, uncompromising, strong, and blessed. No wonder this book of wisdom stresses the importance of the attitude that youth have towards their parents. One of the most basic and fundamental lessons of life for young people is to learn to develop the right attitude towards their parents, because parents are to teach and model these cries of wisdom in the home. Godly parents will develop a right relationship with God, and form this within the life of their children. How our youth respond to their parents (and other wise adults) will determine how they develop in their own lives as adults, and whether they glean from wisdom early in their lives. Usually, selfish children become selfish adults and do not prosper from wisdom. A child who thinks that everything belongs to them will develop into an unhappy adult. A child who chooses bad relationships hinders their acquisition to wisdom. Unless youth hear the cry of wisdom early in their lifetime, they could forget about God when they leave home (cf. Eccl. 12:1).