Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature:Wisdom from God is a divine attribute and gift that enables individuals to discern truth, make righteous decisions, and live in accordance with God's will. It is more than mere knowledge or intelligence; it is the application of God's truth to life. In the Bible, wisdom is often personified and is considered a fundamental aspect of God's character. Biblical Foundation: The Bible presents wisdom as originating from God and being essential for a godly life. Proverbs 2:6 states, "For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding." This verse underscores that true wisdom is a divine endowment, not merely a human achievement. Old Testament Insights: In the Old Testament, wisdom is frequently associated with the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 9:10 declares, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." This reverence for God is the foundation upon which wisdom is built. The Book of Proverbs, attributed largely to Solomon, is a key source of wisdom literature, offering practical guidance for righteous living. Solomon himself is a quintessential example of God-given wisdom. When God offered him anything he desired, Solomon chose wisdom to govern the people effectively. In response, God granted him unparalleled wisdom, as recorded in 1 Kings 3:12: "Behold, I have done according to your words. Behold, I have given you a wise and discerning heart, so that there has been no one like you before you, nor shall one like you arise after you." New Testament Perspectives: In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is the embodiment of divine wisdom. Colossians 2:3 affirms, "In whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." Jesus' teachings and parables are rich with wisdom, providing insight into the kingdom of God and the nature of true righteousness. The Apostle James emphasizes the practical aspect of wisdom in the life of believers. James 1:5 encourages believers to seek wisdom from God: "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." This promise assures believers that God is willing to impart wisdom to those who earnestly seek it. Characteristics of Godly Wisdom: James further delineates the characteristics of wisdom from above in James 3:17: "But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere." These attributes contrast with earthly wisdom, which is often self-centered and divisive. Role in the Christian Life: Wisdom from God plays a crucial role in guiding believers in their daily lives, helping them navigate complex moral and ethical decisions. It equips them to live in a manner that reflects God's character and purposes. The pursuit of wisdom is a lifelong endeavor, requiring humility, prayer, and a deep engagement with Scripture. Conclusion: While wisdom is a gift from God, it is also something to be actively pursued. Believers are encouraged to seek wisdom through prayer, study of the Scriptures, and a close relationship with God. As they grow in wisdom, they become better equipped to fulfill their calling and bear witness to the transformative power of God's truth in their lives. Subtopics The Wisdom of God is One of his Attributes The Wisdom of God: All Human Wisdom Derived From The Wisdom of God: Beyond Human Comprehension The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in His Counsels The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in His Foreshadowing Events The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in His Works The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: His Saints The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Actions The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Afflictions of Saints The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Heart The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Infirmities of Saints The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Minutest Matters The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Most Secret Things The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Time of Judgment The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Want of Saints The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Way of Saints The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Wicked The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Words The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Works of the Wicked The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Redemption The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Searching the Heart The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Understanding the Thoughts The Wisdom of God: Incomparable The Wisdom of God: Nothing is Concealed From The Wisdom of God: Saints Ascribe to Him The Wisdom of God: should be Magnified The Wisdom of God: The Gospel Contains Treasures of The Wisdom of God: The Wicked Question The Wisdom of God: Unsearchable The Wisdom of God: Wisdom of Saints is Derived From Wisdom of Ethan, Heman, Chalcol, and Darda Wisdom of Other Skilled Artisans Wisdom of the Magi (Wise Men from the East) Wisdom of the Princes of the Tribe of Issachar Wisdom: Spiritual: Unclassified Scriptures Relating to Related Terms |