As we continue learning how to daily walk in wisdom, this week we reflect on key principles of godly wisdom. We have established that wisdom from above is beneficial and enriching to one’s life, but there is also earthly, sensual, and even demonic wisdom. Saints, we must know and discern the difference, because while worldly wisdom may seem appealing, it is limited and often governed by the senses. But godly wisdom leads us to align with God’s will and purposes for our lives. And as James 1:22 reminds us, don’t merely hear the Word; do what it says– this is true wisdom in action.
Proverbs 9 describes the way of wisdom saying, “Wisdom has built her house, she has hewn out her seven pillars” (vs.1). Wisdom is personified here as a woman who has built her house on strong pillars, which represent the unshakeable principles of God’s Word. A house built on such principles will not collapse when trials come. As the Lord Jesus teaches in Matthew 7:24-27, the wise man who builds his house on the rock ensures that it stands firm against the rain, floods, and winds. Wisdom further invites us to partake of the feast she sets before us, symbolizing the nourishment that she provides: “She has slaughtered her meat, she has mixed her wine, she has also furnished her table” (vs.2). Reading further, we are also reminded of the call to evangelize, inviting others to encounter God’s grace and wisdom. We read, ‘She has sent out her maidens, she cries out from the highest places of the city. “Whoever is simple, let him turn in here!” As for him who lacks understanding, she says to him, “Come, eat of my bread and drink of the wine I have mixed. Forsake foolishness and live, and go in the way of understanding” ‘ (vs.3-6). Only the simple can receive wisdom, those willing to humble themselves and allow her to find expression in them. But those who ignore wisdom’s call are led down the wrong path to their detriment. This is why Proverbs 7 warns of the adulterous woman who lures the unwise young man to destruction; he followed her “as an ox goes to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks, till an arrow struck his liver … he did not know it would cost his life” (vs.22-23). Many are still drawn to paths that seem right but end in ruin. Don’t let this be you – choose God’s wisdom, which will never lead you astray.
Isaiah 33:6 declares, “Wisdom and knowledge will be the stability of your times, and the strength of salvation.” God’s wisdom anchors us, preventing us from being tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine or circumstance. By embracing God’s wisdom, we gain the stability and clarity needed to successfully navigate life’s challenges. 1 Corinthians 1 says, “For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom; but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God” (vs.22-24). Christ has become the wisdom of God unto us. To the earthly man, this seems foolish, but to the spiritual man, it is life-giving. And even at what might be perceived as God’s “weakest,” He is infinitely wiser than man at his best (vs.25). So, saints, let us continue to trust in the Lord with all our hearts rather than leaning on our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5). Because the truth of the matter is it is not through our own wisdom, strength, or nobility that we prevail, but by relying and depending on Him (vs.27-28). This keeps us from boasting in ourselves and instead boasting in Him (vs.29-31). Church, grace has already availed wisdom to us, if only we will receive it in faith. James 1:5-6 urges us, “if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting” (James 1:5-6). Therefore, let us continue striving to walk in this wisdom, allowing it to guide our steps and transform our lives.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of wisdom. Teach us to walk daily in the wisdom that comes from above, aligning our lives with Your Word and will. Grant us the grace to discern earthly wisdom from spiritual wisdom and to always choose the path that leads to life. In Jesus name, Amen!
