There is a difference between a wise man and a wiseacre. A wiseacre is "one who pretends knowledge or cleverness, a smart aleck" and this type of person is also known for being arrogant and conceited. A wiseacre is a "know-it-all," but a wise man knows God who does know it all! In Proverbs 30 we read about a wise man named Agur, whose name means "collector." You will find a sample of his collection of wise sayings in Proverbs 30:10-33. The first nine verses of Proverbs 30 provide a glimpse into the life of this wise man. Let's note three things about Agur.

First, note Agur's humble assessment. Proverbs 30:1-4 reads, "The words of Agur the son of Jakeh, his utterance. This man declared to Ithiel—to Ithiel and Ucal: Surely I am more stupid than any man, And do not have the understanding of a man. I neither learned wisdom Nor have knowledge of the Holy One. Who has ascended into heaven, or descended? Who has gathered the wind in His fists? Who has bound the waters in a garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is His name, and what is His Son's name, If you know?" Paul exhorts, "For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith... Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion" (Romans 12:3,16b).

Second, note Agur's helpful announcement. Proverbs 30:5-6 reads, "Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him. Do not add to His words, Lest He rebuke you, and you be found a liar." Wise men base their lives on the Bible. The Bible is essential to a life of faith. Romans 10:17 reads, "So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." Here we find direction and protection by trusting and obeying God's Word.

Third, note Agur's happy arrangement. Proverbs 30:7-9 reads, "Two things I request of You (Deprive me not before I die): Remove falsehood and lies far from me; Give me neither poverty nor riches—Feed me with the food allotted to me; Lest I be full and deny You, And say, 'Who is the Lord?' Or lest I be poor and steal, And profane the name of my God." Hebrews 13:5 reads, "Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'" Wise men understand the great purpose of life is to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever.

May we follow Agur's godly example amid those who are living ungodly lives. Agur was a wise man among wiseacres.

Dr. Franklin L. Kirksey, of Robertsdale, is the author of "Don't Miss the Revival! Messages for Revival and Spiritual Awakening from Isaiah"