“The words of the wise are like goads, and like nails firmly fixed are the collected sayings; they are given by one Shepherd.” -Ecclesiastes 12:11

We should be people who pursue wisdom. We should be eager to learn and grow in knowledge of the words of the wise that have gone before.

There is something to the words of the wise. They are worthwhile. Bringing them all together, we get a solid foundation for life and new experience. But this wisdom is not just dispensed from any elder in the land; this wisdom comes from those entrusted with truth by one Shepherd.

The author of Ecclesiastes is focusing on the wisdom from God, and it is this wisdom that is like goads—like encouragement and direction for life and worship. Now in Christ we know that Jesus is the one, true, good Shepherd. He extends to us wisdom because he is the wisdom of God. All wisdom that acts as a spur for us is that which is firmly fixed on the truth of Christ.

Listen to that kind of wisdom. Tune your ear and heart to recognize the voice and influence of the Shepherd. To hear of the freedom from sin and eternal life that are your gift in Christ. To hear of his sovereign control over all things and his loving kindness toward you.

May the Lord give us more words from wise men and women that point us directly to the Shepherd from whom all true wisdom comes. May we be goaded toward Jesus for his glory and our good.