Growing in Wisdom

How is knowledge different from wisdom?

Knowledge is defined as “The fact or condition of knowing something with familiarity gained through experience or association.” Wisdom is defined as “Good sense: judgment.” So knowledge is knowing stuff, and wisdom provides good judgment to do what is best, using the things we know. How’s that for a non-scholarly synopsis?

When it comes to our spiritual growth, wisdom is crucial. Proverbs 2 tells us that if we ask for wisdom, God gives it. It takes more than merely asking, though.

There are a few “ifs” in Proverbs 2, verses 1-4. This chapter (and most of the book of Proverbs) was written by Solomon, who was the wisest man who ever lived. He prayed for wisdom, and God granted his request. So the “my” here is Solomon talking, but his wisdom is God-given. He says this of wisdom, writing to his son:

…if you accept my words and store up my commands inside you

…if you call out for insight

—if you look for it as for silver and search for it as hidden treasure…

The “ifs” are our responsibility.

There is also a “then” (God’s part), which says, in verse 5, “then you will understand the fear (reverence) of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. So actually, we get a 2-for-1 deal (knowledge AND wisdom)! Isn’t that just like God? He is so good!

Notice the verbs. “Accept.” “Store up.” “Call out.” “Look for.” “Search for.” Gaining wisdom requires action! The best action is to dig into God’s word. This is where we learn God’s true character. The Bible is no ordinary book. 2 Timothy 3:16 says, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,” Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Yikes! If we are honest, this is probably a big reason we don’t read our Bibles regularly. It’s not fun to confront our pride, rebelliousness and selfishness. But the reward is a peaceful and changed life; from the inside out, which is so worth it! Wisdom clears the path to redemption.