God's Word, The Path to Life: Wisdom 10-25-20

Today we are going to talk about something the scriptures mention often, that is essential to living the kind of life most of us desire: wisdom.

 

This isn’t really a religious term, but it is something that can guide us in this life. Here’s a simple definition that will serve us today: “Wisdom is the application of truth and grace to the situations of life, guided by a perspective of faith. Wisdom often comes over time by the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.”

 

Here’s just one of the many texts in the Bible where God teaches us the value of wisdom:

 

Proverbs 2:1-12

 

From this passage we learn that the wisdom that is from God can lead us to a life of success, and fulfillment.

 

Interestingly, wisdom was so valued by people in ancient cultures that they would often speak of wisdom in graphic terms to show its importance. This is reflected in God’s Word, particularly in what is called the “wisdom literature,” of which Proverbs is a part. (Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, Wisdom of Solomon, and Ecclesiasticus) Terms such as “shield,” “guide,” “treasure,” and even “a good and beautiful woman.” This is a collection of the wisdom sayings from around the world, most of which was collected by King Solomon, who had asked God for the gift of wisdom. (II Chronicles 1:10-12)

 

In our passage, Solomon describes a few of the ways wisdom as “gift from God,” can help us walk on “a path to life.”

 

-A knowledge of God, and the value of faith (vv.4-6)

-Protection from foolish influences and associations (vv.7, 8)

-A recognition of righteousness and justice (v.9)

-The satisfaction of a life lived well (v.10)

 

There are many other blessings that come from gaining wisdom, of course. The pursuit of wisdom is worth it!

 

Wisdom comes as we open ourselves up to God’s teaching and influence.

 

The facts are that wisdom comes easier for some than others, due to emotional differences of upbringing. That does not mean, however, that wisdom cannot be gained over time. In fact, the scriptures teach us to seek wisdom: “The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom; And with all your acquiring, get understanding.” (Proverbs 4:5) In other words, Make gaining wisdom a part of your life, and do all you can to become wise!

 

Here are a few things we can all do to “acquire wisdom:”

 

1. Live conscious of God. “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing other one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs. . .” (Colossians 3:16) He’s talking about worship! This refers to the foundations of life that the practices of faith, taught and affirmed over years of worship experiences, can bring: the understanding that all are created in God’s image, and that we are to be responsible for our life and actions. This is a direct contrast to “fate,” (no control over life or self at all); or “naturalism” (your life is simply a result of natural forces over which you cannot control.” This perspective of faith changes your very approach to life, and is able to give wisdom. We’re all equal, we’re all sinners, and we all need Jesus, and compassion and grace!

 

James 3:10: “Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.”

 

2. Listen to counsel. “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man is he who listens to counsel.” (Proverbs 12:15) There are times when you might not know what to do; or you see options. It might serve you will to talk to someone, and hear their opinions, or at least have a conversation with them. Even when they might not be an ‘expert’ on the issue, the conversation might give you insight as to the correct course of action or thought.

 

3. Listen to your conscience. “Fools mock at sin, but among the upright there is good will.” (Proverbs 14:9) Your conscience, when education by the Holy Spirit, can be a great guide! Can educate it – God can educate it through study, upbringing, even worship. If something doesn’t feel “right,” or you have some nagging suspicion of guilt, listen to that voice! Think it through, consider actions and options, and do what doesn’t bring you guilt.

 

“Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy.” James 3:13, 17

 

The best way you can support our Ministry is by sharing our videos and podcasts with your friends and family.

 

We also need your financial contributions to make our Ministries a possibility. You can contribute online at https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/

 

If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/

 

Thank you for listening. We will see you next week.