Wisdom

Wisdom. This is a subject that has become more and more important to me as I continue to pursue God (by His grace). Why wisdom, you ask? Well, I think that wisdom is where "the rubber meets the road." Too often I have been preoccupied with lofty theological notions, only to unwittingly miss out on the true godliness that comes by wisdom. To be certain, God doesn't care about how "smart" we are or how much knowledge we possess. As Paul wrote, "Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up" (1 Cor. 8:1b). Indeed, it is a good thing that our success or failure in pleasing God is not based upon our knowledge (for if it were so, most of us would utterly fail). I can think of countless situations where my knowledge (no matter how extensive) would have been of no use in solving a particular problem. This is why we need wisdom! Personally, I know I've made many a foolish decision because I did not highly regard this gift of God. The Bible says of wisdom:

"How blessed is the man who finds wisdom and the man who gains understanding. For her profit is better than the profit of silver and her gain better than fine gold. She is more precious than jewels; and nothing you desire compares with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are pleasant ways and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, and happy are all who hold her fast" (Prov. 2:13-18).

As can be seen above, there are a number of great benefits to wisdom! Alas, how often we trade this feast for the scraps under the table. Praise God that He gives the greater grace!