How can we cultivate wisdom that others "waited and listened" for, like Job's? Job’s Resonant Wisdom “Men listened to me and waited; they kept silent for my counsel.” – Job 29:21 Job’s peers paused and leaned in because his words rang with a weight that could only come from walking closely with God. That same, sought-after wisdom is available today to believers who will pursue it on God’s terms. What Made Others Wait • A God-fearing reputation (Job 1:1) • Proven integrity in public and private life (Job 29:7-17) • Compassion for the weak and marginalized (vv. 12-13) • Steady consistency under suffering (Job 2:9-10; 13:15) People trusted Job because his character matched his counsel. Foundational Pillars for Godly Wisdom • Fear of the Lord – “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). • Word-saturation – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). • Spirit-dependency – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God… and it will be given” (James 1:5). • Obedience – “Whoever practices and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:19). Daily Practices that Grow Wisdom • Daily, unhurried Scripture reading; read to hear, not to check a box. • Scripture memorization; store truth for Spirit-prompted moments (Psalm 119:11). • Reflective prayer: ask specific, Scripture-shaped questions of your own life. • Intentional silence: cultivate listening before speaking (James 1:19). • Community accountability: invite godly friends to correct and encourage (Proverbs 27:17). • Obedience in small matters; faithfulness multiplies insight (Luke 16:10). Marks of a Life Others Seek Out • Credibility – “Let love and faithfulness never leave you… then you will find favor and high regard” (Proverbs 3:3-4). • Peaceable speech – “The wisdom from above is first pure… peace-loving, considerate” (James 3:17). • Practical help – counsel that turns truth into action (Proverbs 15:22). • Enduring hope – pointing others to God’s faithfulness in suffering (Romans 5:3-5). Closing Encouragement Job’s wisdom was not a special privilege; it was the fruit of fearing God, immersing in His word, and living it out day by day. Walk that same path, and in time others will wait and listen for what God says through you. |
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