Proverbs 24:13-14 - Homilies By E. Johnson

Zeal in the pursuit of wisdom

I. THE SWEETNESS OF WISDOM . ( Proverbs 24:13 .) Not without deep meaning is the sense of knowing the truth compared to the sensuous relish of the palate for sweet food. Here is, indeed, a

"Perpetual feast of nectared sweets,

Where no crude surfeit reigns."

(Cf. Psalms 19:11 .)

II. ENCOURAGEMENT IN ITS PURSUIT . ( Proverbs 24:14 .) It brings a true satisfaction both during the pursuit and at its end, which can be said of few other objects of eager ambition in this world. The seeker for truth may be compared to the maiden of the parable, who timely fills her lamp with oil, and "hope that reaps not shame." The pursuit of wisdom, or of truth as understood and taught in this book, is no chase of dreams or abstractions; it is the affair of all. Truth is all that touches and convinces man, whether as an individual, or as a member of society, or the citizen of a nation. It is that which tells him that he is not isolated in the midst of unknown beings; but that beyond his individual life he partakes in a life that is universal. All that in the past, whether facts, thoughts, or sentiments, are in question, that makes us contemporary with the facts, fellow heirs with humanity in great thoughts, sympathetic with great sentiments, is truth.—J.