Encouragement for Today - September 9, 2025

Lacey Rozell September 9, 2025

More Than Wisdom: Discovering God’s Heart
LACEY ROZELL

“For whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the LORD, but he who fails to find me injures himself; all who hate me love death.” Proverbs 8:35-36 (ESV)

Lately, I’ve been diving deep into personal growth and spiritual development, which has led me to the book of Proverbs. I’ve read through Proverbs before. But this time, I’ve been surprised by how much the Lord has revealed to me about the relationship He wants with us.

The book of Proverbs speaks to us like a parent speaks to their child, giving us wisdom for life: “Hear, my son, your father's instruction, and forsake not your mother’s teaching, for they are a graceful garland for your head and pendants for your neck” (Proverbs 1:8-9, ESV).

As parents, my husband and I study our kids, learning their strengths and challenges. As our oldest daughter turns 12 soon, we’re reminded how quickly time passes. This has led us to ask, “What do we want to make sure she knows?”

Proverbs holds the same wisdom a father would pass on to a child, teaching us how to live fully with love, wisdom, and discernment. This text is an invitation to a relationship with God — one that doesn’t end when we grow up. Just like I want my relationship with my kids to last beyond their childhood and throughout their adulthood, our heavenly Father invites us into a relationship that grows deeper with time.

Proverbs 8:34-36 reveals three simple actions we can take to discover the heart of God: listening, watching, and waiting. Wisdom says, “Blessed is the one who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting beside my doors. For whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the LORD, but he who fails to find me injures himself; all who hate me love death” (ESV, emphases added).

We gain wisdom not simply by following rules but by finding God. He’s the source of all wisdom and knowledge: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction” (Proverbs 1:7, ESV). But He offers more than just guidance. He wants to have a deep, personal relationship with us that brings life, joy, and fulfillment.

If we seek God only for wisdom, we miss out on the fullness and joy of a relationship with Him. In His gracious generosity, God offers both wisdom to live well and a relationship that makes us feel seen, loved, and valued. I’m praying that God blesses you abundantly as you continue your quest to know Him better!

Father, thank You for giving us the gift of wisdom through Your Word. Thank You for reminding me that You desire a relationship with me. I want to know You more deeply, and I’m grateful for this time with You. Please reveal to me the ways I can draw closer to You each day. Help me to run toward You, not away from You. I long to be near You — please show me how to cultivate a deeper connection with You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

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If you want to learn more about deepening your personal relationship with God, check out Lacey’s book, What if We Pray? 7 Prayer Principles for Enjoying God.