What is godly wisdom?

Answer

Proverbs 16:16 states, “How much better to acquire wisdom than gold, to gain insight rather than silver!” The Bible frequently encourages us to prioritize wisdom over all else, for example, Proverbs 4:7. However, there are distinct types of wisdom. In 1 Corinthians 3:19, it is written, “For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s eyes.” Verse 20 further explains, “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile.” Clearly, there is a contrast between godly wisdom and worldly wisdom (see James 3:13-17).

Godly wisdom originates from God and brings honor to Him. It commences with a reverence for God and leads to a life of sanctity. Conversely, worldly wisdom is self-centered and unconcerned with honoring God. It equips individuals with knowledge, street-smarts, and “common sense” to navigate the world successfully. Godly wisdom, on the other hand, prepares us for eternity. Through godly wisdom, we exchange worldly values for biblical principles (1 John 2:15-16). We acknowledge our citizenship in another kingdom and make decisions that reflect this allegiance (Philippians 1:27; Philippians 3:20). Possessing godly wisdom entails striving to perceive life from God’s vantage point and acting accordingly.

The book of Proverbs, categorized as wisdom literature in the Bible, offers practical guidance for life. It contains numerous proverbs that contrast the wise with the foolish and caution against repeating foolish behaviors (e.g., Proverbs 3:35; Proverbs 14:24; Proverbs 15:7; 26:11). While everyone makes mistakes, the wise learn from their errors.

Learn from your mistakes and take measures to prevent repeating them. The foolish may repeat the same error multiple times without grasping the lesson.

Divine wisdom may differ significantly from earthly wisdom. Jesus pointed out these variances in His Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5—7). For instance, He stated, “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, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven.” Divine wisdom often necessitates actions contrary to our natural tendencies. It contradicts the “common wisdom” of the time; it is not about self-preservation but about advancing the kingdom of God. We can only walk in divine wisdom when we are dedicated to crucifying our flesh and living in the Spirit (see Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 5:16,25).

The primary means of acquiring divine wisdom is by studying God’s Word “Let my cry come near before thee, O LORD: Give me understanding according to thy word.”, (Psalm 119:169). “The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple” “The entrance of thy words giveth light; It giveth understanding unto the simple.”, (Psalm 119:130). No one is born wise; wisdom must be sought from God to truly be wise: “Your commands are always with me and make me wiser than my enemies. I have more insight than all my teachers, for I meditate on your statutes. I have more understanding than the elders, for I obey your precepts” (Psalm 119:98-100).

Colossians 3:16 states, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing…”

Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs should be sung with gratitude in your hearts to God.” Immersing yourself in God’s Word cultivates a heart of worship and gratitude. This heart of worship provides fertile ground for seeds of wisdom to flourish. Jesus prayed to the Father: “Sanctify them by your truth; your word is truth” «Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. », (John 17:17). He desires His followers to be distinct from the world, making righteous choices and living godly lives «but as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; », (1 Peter 1:15). This can only be achieved when His Word dwells within us.

We can also acquire godly wisdom by carefully choosing our companions in life: “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm” «He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: But a companion of fools shall be destroyed. », (Proverbs 13:20). Paul urged the Corinthians to “imitate me as I imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 4:16;1 Corinthians 11:1). Those seeking godly wisdom will select as their role models those who demonstrate wisdom in their personal lives.

Scripture advises us to seek 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” «If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. », (James 1:5). God desires us to possess His wisdom. He is pleased to bestow it upon us when our hearts are open to receive it. However, J

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. 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). God knows the position of our hearts. When we are committed to trusting Him and obeying His Word, He pours out His wisdom on us (see Jeremiah 29:13). But if we want to retain the right to disobey, we are double-minded and may not receive the wisdom we ask for.

Solomon received godly wisdom when he asked the Lord for it (2 Chronicles 1:10-11). He became known for his great wisdom, yet, in his later years, he turned away from following the wisdom he had been given. He disobeyed the Lord and even began to worship idols (1 Kings 11:1-11). Receiving wisdom did not ensure that Solomon would follow the path of wisdom. Sadly, he exchanged his godly wisdom for worldly wisdom, and he suffered for it. The rest of 1 Kings 11 details Solomon’s downfall as the Lord removed His hand of blessing from a man who was once great.

“Indeed, if you call out for insight
and cry aloud for understanding,
and if you look for it as for silver
and search for it as for hidden treasure,
then you will understand the fear of the Lord
and find the knowledge of God.
For the Lord gives wisdom;
from His mouth come knowledge and understanding”
(Proverbs 2:3-6).