‘I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was.’ Proverbs 8:23
This verse continues to emphasize the eternal nature of wisdom, declaring that it existed before time, creation, and all human understanding. The phrase "set up" indicates that wisdom is an established and integral part of God’s eternal plan. This truth reminds us that wisdom is not a fleeting or temporary concept but an eternal attribute of God, intricately woven into the structure of the universe and His purposes for mankind.
This eternal perspective on wisdom aligns with Psalm 90:2, which says, "Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God." Both passages highlight God’s eternal existence and the timeless nature of His attributes, including his wisdom. Wisdom is not bound by time or circumstance; it is a reflection of God’s infinite knowledge and purpose.
In Ephesians 3:10-11, Paul writes of the "manifold wisdom of God" and its eternal purpose: "To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord." This passage reinforces that wisdom is central to God’s eternal plan of salvation and His work in creation. Through Christ, the ultimate expression of God’s wisdom, we see the fulfillment of His purpose and are invited to participate in it.
Practically, Proverbs 8:23 calls us to ground our lives in God’s eternal wisdom rather than the fleeting values of this world. Since wisdom is everlasting, it provides a foundation that does not shift or fail, offering guidance that transcends the limitations of human understanding. To seek wisdom is to align ourselves with God’s eternal purposes, ensuring that our choices, priorities, and actions reflect His unchanging truth. In a world of uncertainty, this eternal wisdom provides clarity, stability, and a deeper connection to the Creator, who has ordered all things according to His perfect plan.