Psalms 111:10
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.
Psalms 111:10
Verse 10 proclaims the foundational wisdom: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.” Wisdom here begins with reverence for God, a stance that orders all other knowledge. The fear of the Lord is not terror but awe, trust, and alignment with God’s ways. When one lives in obedience to God’s commands, understanding deepens; knowledge becomes wisdom that bears fruit in life. The second clause ties understanding to obedience—true understanding shows itself in action. The verse concludes with praise as the enduring outcome of a life that honors God.
Cultural context: Ancient wisdom literature often linked wisdom to moral living and adherence to divine instruction. This verse translates that into a devotional imperative: honor God, live out the commands, and let praise be the constant overflow of a life oriented to God.
This verse situates wisdom within worship and ethical living. It rejects secular, accomplishment-driven wisdom in favor of a wisdom grounded in divine relationship. The commandment-keeping link to understanding emphasizes that knowledge gains ethical shape through obedience. It also ties ultimate aim to worship—praise enduring forever signals a life oriented to God’s glory.
Practically, cultivate wisdom by building a routine of prayerful study of Scripture, asking, “What does this command reveal about God, others, and me?” Let reverence inform decisions at work, family, and community: be honest, patient, just, and compassionate. When faced with complex choices, pause to consider what honors God and serves others long-term. Let your life’s trajectory be marked by gratitude—praise that lasts beyond fleeting trends—and by a pattern of obedience that deepens understanding. In relationships, seek God’s guidance before speaking or acting; let wisdom manifest as restraint, forgiveness, and faithful stewardship.
Cross-References: Proverbs 1:7; Proverbs 9:10; Psalm 19:7-11; Isaiah 11:2-3; James 1:5