How can we return to God's wisdom and righteousness?

Understanding the Nature of God’s Wisdom and Righteousness

God’s wisdom is His perfect knowledge of all things, both in the universe and in the hearts of every person. His righteousness is His unchanging moral perfection—His goodness, justice, and faithfulness. Scripture indicates that returning to the divine standard of wisdom and righteousness involves both an internal transformation and faithful obedience. As it is written: “But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—our righteousness, holiness, and redemption” (1 Corinthians 1:30).

Recognizing Our Departure from God’s Ways

Humanity’s departure from God’s wisdom and righteousness began in Genesis 3, when Adam and Eve chose their own desires above God’s command. Romans 3:23 states, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” This acknowledgement helps us see the need to return to a standard we cannot ourselves maintain without His grace.

The Path of Repentance

Repentance is a turning away from sin and a turning toward God. Mark 1:15 records Christ’s words: “The time is fulfilled … repent and believe in the gospel!” True repentance involves heartfelt sorrow for wrongdoing and a commitment to live in alignment with God’s truth.

1. Confession of Sin: Acknowledging our guilt (1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins…”).

2. Turning from Disobedience: Fleeing what leads us away from God’s holiness (2 Timothy 2:22).

3. Pursuing Righteous Living: Relying on the Holy Spirit’s empowerment to do what aligns with God’s moral law (Romans 8:4).

Embracing the Gift of Salvation

Christ’s atoning work on the cross provides the only adequate payment for our sin. Romans 5:8–9 declares, “But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Therefore … we shall be saved from wrath through Him!” This salvation is extended to those who trust in Him.

Christ’s resurrection offers the power to transform lives. Numerous books—such as records from Josephus and Tacitus—provide extra-biblical corroboration of Christ’s existence, crucifixion, and the early claims of His resurrection. These sources, though often secular, reveal that even non-Christian observers of the time documented a historical foundation for the event.

Receiving God’s Wisdom Through Scripture

The Bible is the primary tool for gaining God’s wisdom, as it reveals His character, commands, and redemptive plan. 2 Timothy 3:16 confirms, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness.”

1. Reading and Studying: Regular engagement with Scripture builds our knowledge of God’s character and will (Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path”).

2. Meditation and Memorization: Memorizing verses ensures immediate recall of wisdom in moments of decision (Joshua 1:8).

3. Application in Daily Life: Putting into practice the biblical principles we discover (James 1:22).

The Role of Prayer

Prayer opens communication with God so we may align our desires with His. Philippians 4:6–7 instructs believers not to be anxious but to present requests to God gratefully, promising “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding,” will guard hearts and minds. In returning to God’s wisdom and righteousness, prayer acts as a vital channel of repentance, petition, and worship.

Fellowship and Accountability

Connecting with a community of believers fosters both learning and accountability. Hebrews 10:24–25 urges us to “spur one another on to love and good deeds” and to “not forsake the assembling of ourselves together.”

Early church gatherings, as recorded in the New Testament, witnessed mutual support, encouragement, and instruction (Acts 2:42). This environment also reminds us of the transformative work of the Holy Spirit evident in the miracles and perseverance of the early believers.

Drawing on Historical and Archaeological Evidence

Archaeological discoveries—such as the Dead Sea Scrolls—help confirm the reliable transmission of the Old Testament text. These ancient manuscripts show remarkable consistency with modern copies, supporting the reliability of Scripture we study to regain God’s wisdom.

New Testament fragments, like those found in Oxyrhynchus and other early papyri, also show careful preservation. Archaeological sites in Israel, such as evidence for a first-century structure consistent with the synagogue at Capernaum, affirm the historical context of Jesus’ ministry. When we see how meticulously these texts were handed down, we gain confidence in the accurate transmission of God’s counsel.

Nature’s Testimony and Intelligent Design

The intricacy of natural systems—from molecular biology to astronomical observations—demonstrates order consistent with a Designer. Romans 1:20 teaches, “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities … have been clearly seen, being understood from His workmanship.”

1. Complex Biological Information: DNA is coded information prompting scientific minds to point toward purposeful creation rather than random processes.

2. Geological Examples: Various geological formations (like the structure of certain sedimentary layers) can be interpreted to fit a catastrophic event reminiscent of the global Flood recorded in Genesis 6–9.

3. Young Earth Indicators: Observations such as remaining soft tissues in some dinosaur fossils, or carbon-14 presence where it should have long since decayed, have prompted debate favoring a younger timescale.

Practical Steps to Return to God’s Wisdom and Righteousness

1. Humble Submission: James 4:7 declares, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” True surrender recognizes God’s authority in every aspect of life.

2. Faith-Filled Obedience: By acting on what Scripture teaches, we experience growth and transformation (Luke 11:28: “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it!”).

3. Ongoing Renewal: Romans 12:2 instructs believers not to conform to this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds, ensuring we constantly align ourselves with God’s perspective.

4. Spiritual Disciplines: Sustaining a life of prayer, worship, fellowship, and service fortifies us against drifting away from biblical righteousness.

Promise of Restoration

God promises restoration to those who earnestly seek Him. Joel 2:12–13 says, “‘Even now,’ declares the LORD, ‘return to Me with all your heart … Rend your hearts and not your garments. Return to the LORD your God, for He is gracious and compassionate.’” This assurance underscores that anyone can return to God’s wisdom and righteousness through genuine repentance.

Conclusion

Returning to God’s wisdom and righteousness encompasses submission to Christ’s lordship, acceptance of Scripture’s authority, and reliance on the Holy Spirit’s power. Scripture, archaeological validation, the witness of creation, and personal practice all converge to confirm the reality and reliability of God’s call. When we turn from self-dependence and entrust ourselves to His perfect will, we embrace the life He designed: one that glorifies Him and experiences His profound grace.