Friends, we need Wisdom
Friends, Solomon tells us that, “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom; Yea, with all thy getting get understanding.”, Proverbs 4:7-8
Wisdom, I believe, is one of the most precious treasures a believer can seek. It’s more than mere intelligence or accumulated facts; it’s the divine ability to apply knowledge, skills, and resources toward God’s purposes. Proverbs 4:7-8 calls us to pursue wisdom with everything we have. Why? Because wisdom is essential for living a life that pleases God and fulfills His will.
What Is Wisdom?
Wisdom, at its core, is the best possible use of knowledge, skills, and resources. It is the application of truth in a way that honors God and reflects His character. It is the art of living godly, rooted in the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 9:10, NIV, tells us that, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”
1. Knowledge: The Foundation of Wisdom
Wisdom integrates spiritual knowledge, human intellect, and life experiences to guide sound judgments, informed choices, and desired outcomes. It’s not enough to simply know the Word of God; wisdom involves understanding its implications and applying it in our daily lives. It’s why James 1:5 encourages us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
2. Skills: The Tools of Wisdom
Wisdom also involves the acquisition of various skills, like a well-stocked toolbox. These abilities are not just talents we are born with but gifts cultivated by the Holy Spirit and sharpened through learning, discipline and practice. Whether it’s the skill of communication, discernment, leadership, or creativity, wisdom guides us to deploy these skills precisely when needed for maximum impact.
3. Resources: The Stewardship of Wisdom
Wisdom makes the best use of resources, time, energy, space, and materials, to achieve valuable, lasting outcomes. A wise steward recognizes that all resources are gifts from God and seeks to use them effectively for His glory. Jesus Himself illustrated this truth through the Parable of the Talents, reminding us that faithfulness and wisdom are intertwined.
Seek Wisdom
The pursuit of wisdom is not merely a quest for personal gain; it is a call to live in alignment with God’s will. It’s the kind of wisdom that Joseph displayed when he managed Egypt’s resources during famine, or the wisdom Solomon prayed for when he asked God for a discerning heart to govern His people.
To walk in wisdom is to walk in humility, recognizing our utter dependence on God. It’s about seeing the world through His eyes and acting in a way that reflects His love, mercy, and justice.
How Do We Gain This Wisdom?
- Fear the Lord: Recognize God’s authority and surrender your will to His. (Proverbs 9:10)
- Seek God’s Word: Study the Scriptures diligently, allowing the Holy Spirit to teach and guide you. (2 Timothy 3:16)
- Apply What You Learn (especially what you learn from the Scriptures and the Spirit): Wisdom is refined through application. Act on the knowledge you receive. (Matthew 7:24)
- Pray for Wisdom: Like Solomon, earnestly desire and ask God for wisdom. (James 1:5)
- Surround Yourself with Wise Counsel: Learn from mature believers who walk in wisdom. (Proverbs 13:20)
God’s Word doesn’t just suggest we pursue wisdom; it commands it. And it promises a rich reward for those who seek it with their whole heart. As we strive to align our lives with God’s truth, we will find that wisdom is indeed the principal thing. No matter the cost, the pursuit of wisdom is worth it.
May we, like Solomon, desire wisdom above all else and live lives that glorify the One who freely gives it to those who ask.