Wisdom

INTRODUCTION :

This morning we are going to talk about wisdom and what the Bible has to say about the topic, especially how to seek it, value it, and apply it in our lives.

But why?  Why are we talking about this today?  Seeking wisdom allows for not only spiritual growth and guidance for you personally but us as a church as well.  Especially as we grow and take next steps to reach people with who Jesus is.

We are going to be all over today in your bible, the scriptures are noted on the papers on your table. You will notice most of what I’ll be reading through today can be found in Proverbs, which is known as a book of wisdom.

Where does wisdom come from?

In Proverbs 2:6, we read, “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” 

• This verse tells us that biblical wisdom is not merely human intellect or experience but  is given from God.

• You may have heard about “the fear of the Lord” as well. It's important to understand the concept of the “fear of the Lord” as it relates to wisdom. This is found several times in scripture. Here are a couple of those scriptures:

Psalm 111:10  “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever!”

Proverbs 1:7  “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” 

• This is a reflection not of us being fearful per say, but having reverence, respect, honor and worship of who HE is.

  
  

So simply put, the wisdom we are seeking and talking about today comes from God. 

The Value of Wisdom: 

Wisdom is more precious than any material wealth. Proverbs 16:16 states, “How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!” 

Proverbs 24:3-5  “By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established;   by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.  A wise man is full of strength, and a man of knowledge enhances his might”

• This comparison emphasizes that wisdom is invaluable and surpasses all earthly treasures. It is a treasure that enriches our lives in ways that money cannot.

Seeking Wisdom: 

Because wisdom  from God is precious and priceless, the Bible encourages us to actively seek it. 

Proverbs 4:7 says, “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” 

Proverbs 2:1-5 “My son, if you receive my words and treasure up my commandments with you,  making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding;   yes, if you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding,  if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures,   then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.”

• These verses highlight the importance of prioritizing wisdom in our lives, even if it requires sacrifice. We are called to pursue wisdom with determination and dedication.

• Seek:  an act of searching or pursuing with the intent of finding  

Asking for Wisdom: 

God invites us to not only seek but to ask for wisdom. In James 1:5, we read, “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.” 

This promise assures us that God is willing to grant us wisdom if we humbly seek it through prayer.

Illustration - Solomon in 2 Chronicles 1:10-12

“Give me now wisdom and knowledge to go out and come in before this people, for who can govern this people of yours, which is so great?” God answered Solomon, “Because this was in your heart, and you have not asked for possessions, wealth, honor, or the life of those who hate you, and have not even asked for long life, but have asked for wisdom and knowledge for yourself that you may govern my people over whom I have made you king, wisdom and knowledge are granted to you. I will also give you riches, possessions, and honor, such as none of the kings had who were before you, and none after you shall have the like.”

The Characteristics of Godly Wisdom vs Worldly Wisdom:

Godly wisdom is distinct from worldly wisdom. It is important to understand the distinctions so you are able to discern the difference when it appears in your life.

James 3:17 describes it beautifully: “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” 

• These qualities reflect the nature of divine wisdom, which leads to righteousness and harmony.

Now let me rewind a couple verses and we will see a contrast between Godly Wisdom and Worldly Wisdom…

James 3:13-16  Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. 

Ok cool, got it…Now how do I personally apply this to my life?

Applying Wisdom in Our Lives: 

Wisdom is not just theoretical knowledge; it is practical and transformative. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” 

Applying wisdom means trusting in God’s guidance and aligning our actions with His will.

• Pray for Wisdom: Begin by asking God for wisdom.

• Study the Bible: The Bible is the primary source of God’s wisdom. Spend time reading and meditating on Scripture because this is God’s word to you and I. Remember what BIBLE stands for… Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.

• Seek Counsel from Church Leaders: Approach pastors, elders, or other mature Christians in your church for guidance/direction provided that is your actual heart motive. They can provide biblical insights and share the wisdom they have learned to help you navigate your challenges. Prov 19:20  Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future

• Fellowship with Wise Believers: Surround yourself with wise and godly people. Proverbs 13:20 says, “He who walks with wise men will be wise.” 

• Maintain a Teachable Spirit: Be open to learning and accepting correction as it is often for your protection. Proverbs 9:8-9 Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you; reprove a wise man, and he will love you. Give instruction[a] to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.

  • This verse advises us to be willing to accept rebuke and instruction, as it leads to greater wisdom.

CONCLUSION: 

In conclusion, wisdom is a precious gift from God that we should earnestly seek and cherish. It is more valuable than any earthly possession and has the power to transform our lives. Let us commit to seeking God’s wisdom daily, asking for it in prayer, and applying it in our decisions and actions. May we grow in wisdom and understanding, becoming vessels of God’s grace and truth in this world.