Topical Bible: The Gifts of God: Temporal: Wisdom

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Topical Encyclopedia

Definition and Nature

Wisdom, as a temporal gift from God, is the ability to discern and apply knowledge in a way that aligns with divine principles. It is not merely intellectual acumen but involves a moral and spiritual dimension that guides individuals in making righteous decisions. Wisdom is often associated with understanding, insight, and the fear of the Lord, which is considered the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10).

Biblical Foundation

The Bible presents wisdom as a highly valued gift from God, essential for living a life that pleases Him. In the Old Testament, King Solomon is a quintessential example of one who received wisdom as a divine gift. When God appeared to Solomon in a dream and offered to grant him whatever he desired, Solomon asked for wisdom to govern the people effectively. God was pleased with this request and granted Solomon unparalleled wisdom, along with riches and honor (1 Kings 3:5-14).

The Book of Proverbs, largely attributed to Solomon, is a collection of wise sayings and teachings that emphasize the importance of wisdom in daily life. Proverbs 2:6 states, "For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding" . This underscores the belief that true wisdom originates from God and is imparted to those who seek it earnestly.

Characteristics and Benefits

Wisdom is characterized by prudence, discretion, and the ability to judge rightly in matters of life and conduct. It is often associated with peace, prosperity, and longevity. Proverbs 3:13-18 extols the virtues of wisdom, describing it as more precious than rubies and noting that "her ways are pleasant, and all her paths are peaceful" .

The New Testament also highlights the importance of wisdom, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. James 1:5 encourages believers to ask God for wisdom, promising that it will be given generously to those who seek it: "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him" .

Practical Application

In practical terms, wisdom is applied in various aspects of life, including personal relationships, business dealings, and spiritual growth. It enables individuals to navigate complex situations with discernment and integrity. The wise person is one who listens to counsel, learns from experience, and aligns their actions with God's will.

The pursuit of wisdom is a lifelong endeavor, requiring humility and a teachable spirit. It involves studying Scripture, seeking godly counsel, and praying for divine guidance. As believers grow in wisdom, they reflect the character of Christ and become effective witnesses to the world.

Conclusion

While wisdom is a temporal gift, its impact is eternal, influencing both the present life and the life to come. It is a gift that God desires to bestow upon His children, equipping them to live in a manner that honors Him and blesses others.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Chronicles 1:12
Wisdom and knowledge is granted to you; and I will give you riches, and wealth, and honor, such as none of the kings have had that have been before you, neither shall there any after you have the like.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Temporal Advantages.
... account of their spiritual peril, when they were no longer encompassed by temporal
trials ... It may be asked, "Are not these dangerous things the gifts of God? ...
/.../newman/parochial and plain sermons vol vii/sermon v temporal advantages.htm

Whether Faith is a Single virtue
... gifts of God, according to Isa.11:2. Now wisdom and knowledge are different, in
that wisdom is of things eternal, whereas understanding is of things temporal. ...
/.../aquinas/nature and grace/article six whether faith is.htm

How Deceitful the Love of this World Is, and How Amiable God Is.
... abide with the temporal, when even one temporal thing neither can ... is there, which,
adorned with delightful gifts, was a heavenly paradise, where God was well ...
/.../suso/a little book of eternal wisdom/chapter vi how deceitful the.htm

Spiritual Gifts.
... the care of the spiritual and temporal affairs of ... two classes"those that strengthen
the gifts of saving ... is therefore the portion of all God's children, and ...
/.../kuyper/the work of the holy spirit/xxxvii spiritual gifts.htm

Of the Difference Between the Hirelings and the Faithful Servants ...
... mark this: that some men receive the gifts of God ... all their good works, they seek
after temporal things, or ... unfaithful, they dare not trust in God; but their ...
/.../john/the adornment of the spritual marriage/chapter vi of the difference.htm

A Royal Seeker after Wisdom
... men eagerly put forth for some temporal good, would ... rebuke men's indifference to
Christ's gifts, their failure ... condemned by heathen seekers after God, or will ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture f/a royal seeker after wisdom.htm

Of Faith
... And what can any prosperity, or temporal good in this ... world so wicked and so sinful
but God can convert ... adorn him with singular graces and many gifts of virtue ...
/.../ugolino/the little flowers of st francis of assisi/chapter ii of faith.htm

First Sunday after Epiphany
... by their works seek to merit reward from God, whether temporal or eternal ... works,
on our own spiritual life and on the gifts wherewith God has endowed ...
/.../luther/epistle sermons vol ii/first sunday after epiphany.htm

The Fifty-Fourth Chapter: the Different Motions of Nature and ...
... Of temporal necessities she asks no more than will serve ... herself or hers exalted,
but desires that God Who bestows ... out of love should be blessed in His gifts. ...
/.../kempis/the imitation of christ/the fifty-fourth chapter the different.htm

In which Also Concerning Exemplars.
... as Being, from the prior of His other gifts; for pre ... must call to mind the Word of
God, which says ... above time and eternity, and all things eternal and temporal. ...
/.../dionysius/dionysis on divine names/caput v concerning beingin which.htm