Translation
Then I was at His side as a skilled craftsman;
Go to footnote numberI was His delight day by day, and I was constantly rejoicing before Him.
Go to footnote numberParaphrase
At that time I was at His side, involved in the process of creation as a master craftsman; each day He enjoyed seeing what I could accomplish; likewise I was happy to do my best for Him.
Footnotes
1
Because wisdom was necessary for creation, it is expressed as though wisdom were one of the craftsmen that God used to shape the world and the universe we can see.
2
It should be obvious that wisdom does not stand alone, but is an attribute of God which played a key role in Creation. The point being made here is not that wisdom functioned apart from God, but that wisdom is important and has been from the “beginning.” God does not abuse his “tools,” but He enjoys using them to bring about His desired ends. While God could do everything without us, or through His angels, He chooses to use us even though we are imperfect tools. Likewise, those who are His servants, as wisdom is personified here, find enjoyment in serving as God’s instruments to accomplish His purpose. It is a mutually beneficial relationship and each rejoices in participating with the other.