Living Our Faith

01/29/24 – 02/06/24

Wisdom from Heaven

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  01/31/24

Although knowledge and wisdom are closely related, they are two very different things. Knowledge is the storing up of information, and wisdom is the application of the right information in a given situation. From a worldly perspective, knowledge helps you make a living, but wisdom makes a life. Our world is overflowing with knowledge, but we are bankrupt of wisdom.

There is a vast difference between natural wisdom, worldly wisdom, and God’s wisdom. Natural wisdom is comprised of our intellectual capacity and experience and is the fruit of earthly reasoning and logic. Natural wisdom offers man’s best answer to a question or problem.

Worldly wisdom is what deceived Adam and Eve in the garden. This type of wisdom rationalizes sin and separates us from God. James describes this wisdom clearly: “But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such ‘wisdom’ does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic” (James 3:14-15).

James then proceeds to contrast this worldly wisdom with eight characteristics of true, godly wisdom: “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere” (James 3:17). God’s wisdom is pure in motive, gentle, and merciful. It is not arrogant, boastful, harsh, or unforgiving. It does not create strife or division; it produces good fruit and blesses us. Worldly wisdom is self-centered; godly wisdom is God-centered. True wisdom brings glory to God.

Believers should seek God’s wisdom in all things: finding a spouse, bringing up children, settling conflicts, and starting new ventures. This wisdom is the ability to apply the Word of God accurately and correctly, not only in the believer’s life but in the lives of others.

Is it time you took authority over worldly wisdom by growing and maturing in God’s wisdom?

Prayer: Father, I pray that You would increase my godly wisdom as You’ve promised in Your Word. Protect me from relying on any kind of wisdom but Yours. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom” (James 3:13).