How can we gain wisdom to instruct others, as in Daniel 11:33? Setting the Scene “Those who are wise among the people will give understanding to many, yet for a time they will fall by sword or flame, and they will be captured and plundered.” — Daniel 11:33 The Promise of Insight • Daniel foresaw believers who would both possess wisdom and actively “give understanding to many.” • The verse assumes a literal, trustworthy Word that equips ordinary people to instruct others even amid hardship. Principles for Gaining Wisdom to Instruct Others • Fear of the LORD: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). Awe-filled reverence positions the heart to receive insight. • Dependence on God’s gift: “For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding” (Proverbs 2:6). Wisdom is granted, not self-generated. • Prayerful asking: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach” (James 1:5). Continual, humble requests open the way for divine instruction. • Word-anchored study: “All Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching” (2 Timothy 3:16). Regular, literal reading and meditating on Scripture shapes thinking to align with God’s truth. • Spirit-led illumination: “The Helper, the Holy Spirit, … will teach you all things” (John 14:26). The Spirit turns biblical knowledge into living wisdom. • Obedient practice: “Whoever hears My words and does them is like a wise man” (Matthew 7:24). Obedience transforms information into wisdom fit for teaching. • Godly companionship: “He who walks with the wise will become wise” (Proverbs 13:20). Fellowship with mature believers sharpens discernment. • Perseverance through testing: Trials refine insight; Daniel 11:33 shows wisdom proven in suffering. Compare James 1:2-4 on endurance producing completeness. Practical Steps for Daily Life 1. Schedule unhurried Scripture reading, aiming for both breadth and depth. 2. Keep a journal of insights and cross-references; articulate truths in your own words. 3. Pray before, during, and after study, asking the Spirit to clarify and apply. 4. Share learned truths in conversation, small groups, or written notes; teaching reinforces understanding. 5. Memorize key verses that shape a biblical worldview (e.g., Proverbs 3:5-7; Colossians 1:9-10). 6. Seek mentors who model wise living; invite feedback on your interpretations. 7. Embrace trials as opportunities; ask, “What wisdom is God forging here?” 8. Review and refine: return to passages, compare Scripture with Scripture, and correct misunderstandings promptly. Encouragement to Persevere • Psalm 119:99: “I have more insight than all my teachers, for Your testimonies are my meditation.” Persistent meditation yields surpassing wisdom. • Daniel 12:3: “Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars.” Faithful instructors receive enduring honor. By revering the Lord, seeking His Word, relying on His Spirit, and living what we learn, we gain the wisdom necessary to instruct many—just as foretold in Daniel 11:33. |
    |