It is wonderful to have knowledge, but wisdom has an even greater value. Wisdom is the ability to apply knowledge precisely and accurately. A wise man is the right man, doing the right thing, saying the right thing, in the right way, and at the right time. He is the most useful man in leadership because he leads from God-initiation.
ITS SOURCE
So, what is the origination of such wisdom? It comes from God. And, true to His giving form, the Lord is waiting to give His Divine wisdom to those who seek Him.
For the Lord gives wisdom. From His mouth come knowledge and understanding. He stores up sound wisdom for the upright. He is a shield to those who walk in integrity, guarding the paths of justice, and He preserves the way of His godly ones. (Proverbs 2:6-8)
The Lord goes further to indicate what will happen to those who seek wisdom from Him.
Then you will discern righteousness and justice and equity and every good course. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Discretion will guard you, understanding will watch over you to deliver you from the way of evil. (Proverbs 2:9-12)
IF YOU DON'T HAVE WISDOM
... you will be clueless and unprotected in this life. But the man who pursues and receives wisdom from God will discern what is right and just and equitable. He will be able to find "every good course." He will be protected by discretion and understanding, and his steps will be Divinely delivered from evil. What could be more valuable?
All of this because of a God of perfect wisdom who made us in His image and longs to share His life with us if we will trust Him. But there is one caveat: you must admit your need and pursue wisdom with all your heart. Look at the verbs in the first five verses of this Proverb.
My son, if you will receive my words and treasure my commandments within you; make your ear attentive to wisdom, incline your heart to understanding; for if you cry for discernment lift your voice for understanding; if you seek her as silver and search for her as for hidden treasures, then you will discern wisdom. (Proverbs 2:1-4)
The humble man who pursues God relentlessly will receive wisdom. You don't need a Ph.D. to do this … just a hungry heart.
Lord, I need wisdom. Thank You that you alone are the source. It is not in me. Father, help me pursue wisdom in You, believing that You will gladly and graciously provide all I need. Let me see today what is right, just, equitable, and the good course. Thank You for storing this up for me! And, for speaking this wisdom into my soul as I see You.
At the end of the day, let me give praise to the One alone to whom it is due. For "the LORD gives wisdom!"
As a pastor for the last 55 years, I have had the joy of being encouraged and blessed and prayed for by so many people. It is what carries you in your task of shepherding people. As I look back over five decades of ministry, their love has dramatically enriched my life.
But also, a pastor leads. And when anyone leads, there are almost always some who disagree.
