Divine Wisdom
Proverbs 1:7 (ESV)
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
Have you asked the Lord for Wisdom?
When Solomon went to Gibeon to offer sacrifices, God appeared to him in a dream and said, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you” (1 Kings 3:5, NIV). Solomon chose wisdom out of anything he could have asked God for. Solomon's decision highlights the transformative power of wisdom. He clearly understood that without it, he would falter. The Lord, in turn, honored Solomon’s request and blessed him with much more. Solomon's wisdom was so prominent that people journeyed far and wide to learn from him.
Wisdom is from God alone. The foundation for its application is the fear of God. “Fear” implies reverence, worship, and submission to the Lord. Wisdom is acknowledging God's authority and offering him the worship he deserves. It is understanding that life's significance is derived through a humble approach to God with a servant's heart.
Wisdom equips us for godly living through biblical instruction and aids us in developing individual discernment. The Book of Proverbs provides practical ways to live by wisdom. It directs us to make wise decisions and explains the consequences of the wrong ones. As followers of Christ, we are called to live by these principles; however, obtaining wisdom demands intentional effort on our part. We are encouraged in James 1:5 (ESV) to seek wisdom. It states, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
A wise person seeks God's perspective before acting, while a fool acts impulsively and relies on their limited understanding. Living by biblical principles is not just a choice; it's a commitment to spiritual maturity and God's will. Wisdom is the key to fulfilling this commitment and having the resolve to act on it. Not only does it benefit the person who follows it, but it also protects us from evil in this world.
How does your life demonstrate godly wisdom?
Do you intentionally impart godly wisdom to others in the things you say and do?
Father God, your word tells us to ask for wisdom, and it will be given. I ask that you grant me wisdom. Please open my eyes to see the truth and my ears to hear your voice. Please help me live a life that honors you and share godly wisdom with those around me. Give revelation to those who seek your will in all things. Please help them realize that wisdom will only be obtained through you. Apart from you, we can do nothing. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scripture References: 2 Chronicles 1:7-13; Job 28:28; Proverbs 9:10; Proverbs 15:33; Proverbs 16:16; Ecclesiastes 12:13; James 1:5-8
