Knowing What We Don't Know

Proverbs 1:1-7


The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight; for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair; for giving prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young-- let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance-- for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.


Throughout the scriptures we are taught to seek wisdom. Wisdom is a precursor and companion of knowledge and understanding, all of which is critical for life.

From Proverbs 2


My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.


The wisest people I know are the ones who are keenly aware of the fact that they have not "arrived" at wisdom. In fact, the more they learn and grow, the more they realize how much there is left to learn.


This attitude is so critical for us in leadership. We must have a healthy respect for what we do not know and then to seek wisdom and knowledge from those who will came alongside us.


This week I met such an individual, one who is well thought of and accomplished. However, he will not accept mediocrity and he fully acknowledges that other perspectives can and will help him improve his school in a way that he cannot by himself.


Praise the Lord for humility. If we can all realize that we do not have all of the answers and can agree that this declaration is not a sign of weakness, then our schools are poised to become premier institutions of redemptive grace.