“The Lord [is] wonderful in counsel and magnificent in wisdom.” Isaiah 28:29 NIV.
A volume of knowledge is not as valuable as a portion of wisdom.
My thoughts and comments today are about, “Godly wisdom.”
Life can be complicated, even perplexing. To navigate the myriad of situations and circumstances that will confront you, you need wisdom and discernment. No one of us possesses all the knowledge that life will require. The difference between knowledge and wisdom is significant, but together, wisdom and knowledge produce invaluable understanding. A volume of knowledge is not as valuable as a portion of wisdom. Gain knowledge but store up wisdom. There is one and only One true source of wisdom. James, the apostle, was clear, “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5 NIV. Why would anyone first look elsewhere? Ask God for His wisdom. I have learned three practical elements of Godly wisdom.
(1) A Word from the Lord. Wisdom begins with God, and is best defined as, “The ability to see your situation from God’s point of view.” Isaiah described God as, “wonderful in counsel and magnificent in wisdom.” Isaiah 28:29 NIV. Pause and reflect on that description of our God, “magnificent in wisdom.” God will always have a word of guidance for you. “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that He lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding.” Ephesians 1:7-8 NIV. When life requires wisdom and direction, turn first to Scripture and prayer. “The Scriptures are able to make you wise . . given by inspiration of God, and is profitable . . that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:15-17 NKJV.
Look for Godly principles that provide insight and wisdom that applies to your situation. Wisdom is found in personal application of Godly principles. Normally, a Word from the Lord is recognized through your earlier discipline to know and love His voice through a lifestyle of prayer and regular and respectful attention to His Word. The more comfortable you are with the Scriptures, the more readily you will hear and understand God’s voice. But often there are two additional components to receiving and clarifying Godly wisdom.
(2) Objective counsel. Life is not a solo journey; there are times you will need input and wisdom from others. Our inevitable subjectivity benefits from the balance of others to best discern what God is saying. Confidence in another’s counsel rests upon a proven history of relationship and trust. Be discerning. Others can reassure, redirect, clarify, or caution you as a counter balance to the foolishness or fears in your own heart. Godly wisdom is easily recognized when you know what to look for. “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.“ James 3:17 NIV. Wisdom may come through others but comes from God.
(3) Subjective perspective. I was taught that, “Those who fail to learn from their mistakes are destined to repeat them.” God can and will speak to you. Your perspective is unique in the process of your discovery of Godly wisdom for your present circumstance. Apply yourself to learning from life; be attentive and observant; learn from yours and others’ mistakes.
Today, I pray for you to seek God’s wisdom and discern His will and ways.
Christian Communications 2016