“And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.” – Job 28:28
By Dr. Racheal Gitonga
In a land longing for healing and direction, South Sudan needs more than political strategies or economic plans. It needs wisdom. Not worldly wisdom that relies on cleverness, but divine wisdom that begins with the fear of the Lord. Scripture tells us that the fear of the Lord is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding.
Wisdom is not merely intelligence. It is a divine force that positions people for leadership and favor. Proverbs reminds us that by wisdom kings reign and rulers decree justice. Wisdom gives stability, insight, and the grace to build lasting legacies. Without it, even the most gifted fall into ruin.
Solomon stands as both a model and a warning. When he first became king, he asked God for wisdom, and God granted it abundantly. His reign began with unmatched insight and honor. But over time, Solomon allowed iniquity to dull his discernment. He took many foreign wives against God’s clear command. These alliances drew his heart away from the Lord, leading him into idolatry. Though once wise, his disregard for God’s instructions brought confusion and decline.
The fear of the Lord is what preserves wisdom. It is more than a feeling. It is a posture of the heart that hates evil, walks in obedience, and lives in the awareness of God’s presence. Those who fear the Lord cannot be comfortable with corruption, bribery, dishonesty, or immorality. Their conscience remains sensitive. They choose what pleases God, even when no one is watching.
To fear God is to treasure His commands. As Ecclesiastes declares, the whole duty of man is to fear God and keep His commandments. Obedience invites inspiration. God speaks and leads those who revere Him. The fear of the Lord also creates an invisible awareness that God sees all things. It keeps the heart clean and decisions upright.
Beloved, South Sudan needs wisdom not just in her leaders but in her youth, her parents, her teachers, her merchants, and her pastors. The fear of the Lord is the only foundation strong enough to build a new society. It is from this holy reverence that wisdom is born. And from wisdom flows stability, dignity, favor, and peace.
Prayer:
Lord, create in me a holy awe of Your greatness. Let my heart be rooted in reverence, for I know that wisdom begins there. Holy Spirit, grant me the gift of wisdom. Help me discern good from evil and walk in truth. Teach me to trust You and obey Your Word. Let humility guide my steps and may Your understanding light my path. I receive grace to honor and fear You always. Help me live wisely and walk in Your blessing, in Jesus’ name. Amen.