In every age, mankind is faced with choices and decisions that determine the course of his life. Today is no exception and amidst the phenomenon of life moving at a fast pace in all directions, mankind can misstep and make wrong decisions about himself, his purpose in life, and the things that are most valuable to him. For example, many people are trapped into making money as quickly as possible to the point of getting entangled in online gambling or trapped in fraudulent investments. When information circulates through social media with alluring imagery how easily people are influenced to drain their pockets and even go into debt to support their lifestyle.

It is no coincidence that the book of Proverbs is reminded twice: There is a way that seems "straight", but its end leads to death (Prov 14:12; 16:25). This ancient treasure of wisdom is not obsolete and reminds us of the landmines scattered along our paths. Today, when access to communication networks is almost limitless, it is hard to imagine life without the use of a "smart phone". However, this increasingly “powerful” facility can prove to be a drain on our time and attention to the point of becoming addicted and in the grip of its “power”. How can we still utilize them without losing our faith and values that are fundamental to our lives?"

We need the time-tested “art of living” to distinguish between what is truly true and what only appears to be true; what is truly important and what is actually less important or not important at all. In various parts of our world, there have long been treasures of wisdom that help people to have the “art of living” in addressing various issues. Similarly, in the book of Proverbs, we have a valuable heritage that is sourced not only from the environment of Israel but also from the surrounding world. For example, the wisdom of Amenemope of Egypt anciently said, “Do not labor for wealth. The stolen goods brought to you will not spend the night with you. Like a swan, it becomes winged and flies off into the sky. How parallel these words of wisdom are to one of the amasal (Prov. 23.4-5)!

In 2025, LAI invites churches and Bible users alike to return to digging and drawing wisdom from the well of inspiration available in Scripture. In Proverbs 8, Wisdom is personified as the Woman who cries out in the streets, the gates of the city, the highest places, all the spaces through which people pass (8:1-3). Today, she can be imagined crying out in every corner where the children of humanity meet: in homes, traditional markets and stock exchanges, political stages, courtrooms, educational institutions, coffee shops, places of worship and virtual spaces that know no territorial boundaries anymore.

What does he call for? Wisdom and instruction are more important than jewels (8:10-11). Its source remains the "fear of the Lord" which has obvious implications in the form of righteous living, just actions, and anti-evil attitudes. With a loud voice, the Woman of Wisdom asserts her presence and role since the world was created by God (8:22-32). Her wise cry reminds us all of God's presence in our daily lives. Blessed are those who listen and follow her instructions (8:32, 34). Those who love her are pleasing to the Lord Himself and will obtain true life (8:36). May we continue to listen to the call of God's wisdom in our lives to equip us with the "art of living" that helps us assess, weigh, and respond to the various choices and problems we face.