In a time when financial and housing markets around the globe have taken a beating, good investments can be hard to find. Some urge, “Buy gold. It’s an inflation beater that will always be worth something.” Others suggest that a corrected real estate market is a good place to park your money. Many recommend traditional long-term investments in mutual funds.

The book of Proverbs points us to an even better investment. It claims investing in “wisdom” is “more profitable than silver” and produces a better return than gold—figuratively speaking, of course (Proverbs 3:14). Wisdom is the exercise of good judgment and common sense. It helps us to discern the way to go and prevents us from making immature mistakes.

When God gave a young King Solomon the chance to ask for anything he wanted, he requested “a discerning heart” (1 Kings 3:9 NIV). Somehow, Solomon was wise enough to know he was sunk without it.

Solomon would go on to rave about the value of wisdom. In Proverbs 8, personifying wisdom, he wrote, “And so, my children, listen to me [wisdom], for all who follow my ways are joyful. Listen to my instruction and be wise. Don’t ignore it. Joyful are those who listen to me, watching for me daily at my gates, waiting for me outside my home! For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the Lord. But those who miss me injure themselves” (Proverbs 8:32-36).

Perhaps one of the best things about wisdom is that God wants to give it to us. In the New Testament, we’re told to “ask our generous God, and He will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking” (James 1:5).

We all could use more wisdom. Let’s seek it today. Past performance is indicative of future results!