![]() For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways” (verses 6–8). However, James goes on to say, “But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. He is delighted to give it to us when our hearts are set to receive it. Scripture tells us to ask for godly wisdom: “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5). Those who want godly wisdom will choose for their heroes those who exhibit wisdom in their personal lives. Paul instructed the Corinthians to “imitate me as I imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 4:16 11:1). We can also develop godly wisdom by carefully selecting those who journey through life with us: “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm” (Proverbs 13:20). We can only do that when His Word lives in us. He wants His followers to be set apart from the world, making godly choices and living godly lives (1 Peter 1:15). Jesus prayed to the Father: “Sanctify them by your truth your word is truth” (John 17:17). That heart of worship becomes fertile soil for seeds of wisdom to grow. ![]() I have more understanding than the elders, for I obey your precepts” (Psalm 119:98–100).Ĭolossians 3:16 says, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” Immersion in God’s Word produces a heart of worship and thanksgiving. I have more insight than all my teachers, for I meditate on your statutes. No one is born wise we must acquire wisdom from God if we are to be truly wise: “Your commands are always with me and make me wiser than my enemies. “The unfolding of your words gives light it gives understanding to the simple” (Psalm 119:130). The primary way we gain godly wisdom is by learning God’s Word (Psalm 119:169). We can only live in godly wisdom when we are committed to crucifying our flesh and living in the Spirit (see Galatians 2:20 Ephesians 5:16, 25). Godly wisdom goes against the “conventional wisdom” of the day it is not focused on self-preservation but on furthering the kingdom of God. For example, He said, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven.” Godly wisdom often requires us to do that which is opposite our natural inclinations. Jesus highlighted these differences in His Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). Godly wisdom may look very different from worldly wisdom. The foolish may make the same mistake over and over again and never learn their lesson. Everyone makes mistakes, but the wise learn from their mistakes and take steps to avoid repeating them. Many proverbs contrast the wise with the foolish and warn against repeating foolish actions (e.g., Proverbs 3:35 14:24 15:7 26:11). Proverbs is full of practical instructions for life. The book of Proverbs is part of the Bible known as wisdom literature. Having godly wisdom means we strive to see life from God’s perspective and act accordingly. We recognize we are citizens of another kingdom, and we make choices that reflect that allegiance (Philippians 1:27 3:20). With godly wisdom, we trade earthly values for biblical values (1 John 2:15–16). Godly wisdom enables us to prepare ourselves for eternity. With worldly wisdom, we may become educated, street-smart, and have “common sense” that enables us to play the world’s game successfully. Worldly wisdom, on the other hand, is not concerned with honoring God but with pleasing oneself. Godly wisdom starts with the fear of God and results in a holy life. Godly wisdom is, of course, from God and honors God. First Corinthians 3:19 says, “For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight.” And verse 20 says, “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile.” There is obviously a difference between godly wisdom and worldly wisdom (see James 3:13–17). Proverbs 16:16 says, “How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!” The Bible urges us often to seek wisdom above all things (e.g., Proverbs 4:7).
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