Solomon here not only asserts that it is better to get wisdom than gold
(ch. iii. 14, viii. 19), but he speaks it with assurance, that it is
much better, better beyond expression--with admiration (How much
better!) as one amazed at the disproportion--with an appeal to men's
consciences ("Judge in yourselves how much better it is" )--and with an
addition to the same purport, that understanding is rather to be chosen
than silver and all the treasures of kings and their favourites. Note,
1. Heavenly wisdom is better than worldly wealth, and to be preferred
before it. Grace is more valuable than gold. Grace is the gift of God's
peculiar favour; gold only of common providence. Grace is for
ourselves; gold for others. Grace is for the soul and eternity; gold
only for the body and time. Grace will stand us in stead in a dying
hour, when gold will do us no good. 2. The getting of this heavenly
wisdom is better than the getting of worldly wealth. Many take care and
pains to get wealth, and yet come short of it; but grace was never
denied to any that sincerely sought it. There is vanity and vexation of
spirit in getting wealth, but joy and satisfaction of spirit in getting
wisdom. Great peace have those that love it.