At first glance, it seems as if this passage is has a hint of self-exaltation. Those who are wise receive praise and those who are foolish are despised. Praise from others could be a real motivator to get wisdom, except for the fact that wisdom is not motivated by the praise of men. The reason people commend those who are wise, is because wisdom produces people who are salt and light in a dark and self-centered world. We must keep in mind that wisdom is far more than biblical knowledge. Wisdom knows how to apply biblical knowledge to daily living. This means that wisdom takes biblical information, and uses it to live a life of obedience to God and service to those around them. While wisdom is more than just biblical data gathering; make no mistake, unless we are transforming our minds through the Word of life, wisdom will not be produced in our lives. I want to encourage us all, to incline our hearts unto wisdom, that we might live a life that reflects the life of Christ in us.