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The first step to being crowned with knowledge is understanding that “the way of man is not in himself; it is not in man who walks to direct his own steps” (Jer. 10:23). This means we must be directed down the proper path. Jeremiah understood this and desired to know the proper way, so he sought God’s correction and direction. “O Lord, correct me, but with justice; not in Your anger, lest You bring me to nothing” (Jer. 10:24). Through daily Bible study, we begin to understand that not everything which seems right to us is indeed right. “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death” (Proverbs 14:12).
The second step is to give up control of our lives and surrender to God. “A wise man fears and departs from evil, but a fool rages and is self-confident. A quick-tempered man acts foolishly, and a man of wicked intentions is hated. The simple inherit folly, but the prudent are crowned with knowledge” (Proverbs 12:16-18). Paul encouraged Timothy to follow the advice of this proverb. “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Tim 2:15). When we follow these steps, God will complete us and equip us for every good work. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16-17). This is where the man of God is crowned with knowledge, because he humbly comes before God to listen and learn from Him. “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matt. 11:28-29).
When we give up control and listen to God, He crowns us with knowledge which builds our faith. “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Rom. 10:17). And when we study daily, we demonstrate a readiness to listen and build our wisdom (Acts 17:11; James 1:5).
Corey Johnson
Clarendon church of Christ
Clarendon, TX