The words of Jesus are in red text.

How Do You Define Wisdom? Here are a few questions to consider. Take time to consider each of your answers. 1 . If someone asked you to define wisdom…how would you respond? What is wisdom to you? 2 . Can you identify one person you consider as being wise? How did they demonstrate wisdom? 3 . Can you identify a knowledgeable person who was unwise? What did they do or fail to do? 4 . Is there a difference between knowledge and wisdom? If yes, what is the difference ? Knowledge Some perceive knowledge as wisdom. However, knowledge and wisdom are unique. For example, it is possible for one to have significant knowledge, but lack wisdom. But for one who is wise, their wisdom improves as knowledge is increased. Knowledge may be defined as information and skills that are acquired through formal education, interaction with others, and experiences in life. Human Wisdom vs. Godly Wisdom There are two types of wisdom: human and godly. Human wisdom may be defined as when someone uses their personal knowledge and skills when making decisions, judgements and declarations. This type of wisdom is obtained from human sources, and is executed with human reasoning. However, there is a different type of wisdom that few find: godly wisdom. Godly wisdom is only received spiritually via the Holy Spirit, is foundationally based upon God’s absolute truths, and enhances the love one has in their heart towards God, and towards others. The following scripture compares human vs. godly wisdom. As you read, identify at least 5 descriptive words that indicate human wisdom, and at least 5 descriptive words that indicate godly wisdom. “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. For where envy and self- seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.” James 3:13-17 Wisdom Litmus Test Jesus was asked what was the greatest commandment. Jesus responded, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew 22:37-40 Think about it…all of the commandments God has given to man; and all of the words spoken by God through the prophets; and all of the words in the Bible may be summarized by two directives: Love God with everything you got, and love others. If we do these two things, all of the commandments—and God’s desire for us—will be fulfilled. For the Bible states in Romans 13:10, “Love is the fulfillment of the law.” Given the absolute truth declared by Jesus, if “wisdom” does not magnify love towards God and others…then this wisdom is likely human wisdom. For this question comprises the spiritual “litmus test” of human versus godly wisdom. Godly wisdom facilitates the fulfillment of the greatest commandment: to love God with all of our being, and seek to fulfill the needs of others. Whereas, human wisdom lacks the eternal benefits associated with godly wisdom. How to Obtain Godly Wisdom “The knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Colossians 2:2 Those who desire God; those who seek Him; those who obtain knowledge about Him and His Son; and those who believe and accept Jesus as their Savior and Lord—are those to whom the Holy Spirit (1) imparts knowledge as He reveals the mystery of God, and (2) enables us to obtain the rewards from the treasures of His wisdom. In addition… • Godly wisdom is an indicator of spiritual growth. • Godly wisdom illuminates spiritual understanding, discernment, and the consequences of sin. • Godly wisdom transforms us into the image of His Son, Jesus Christ. • Godly wisdom creates a compelling desire to seek and obey Him—as an expression of our love. • Godly wisdom causes us to recognize it is only by His grace and His love for us that we are saved. • Godly wisdom replaces pride with humility, and self- reliance with dependence upon Him. • Godly wisdom causes us to realize it’s not about us and our self-centered ways. • Godly wisdom results in the realization that a fulfilled life is about sharing the transformational power of God’s love and His grace with others. • Godly wisdom elevates our perceptions from the earthly realm and into the spiritual realm. • Godly wisdom magnifies His love within our heart, soul and mind. “If any of you lacketh wisdom, let him ask of God, who giveth to all liberally and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” James 1:5 King Solomon of Israel—the one who wrote the Song of Solomon, the book of Ecclesiastes, and much of Proverbs; the one who sought after God; the one who declared life lived apart from God is meaningless when compared to education, wealth, or any other earthly pleasures—is recognized throughout time for his God- given wisdom. “On that night God appeared to Solomon, and said to him, ‘Ask! What shall I give you?’ And Solomon said to God: ‘You have shown great mercy to David my father, and have made me king in his place. Now, O Lord God, let Your promise to David my father be established, for You have made me king over a people like the dust of the earth in multitude. Now give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people; for who can judge this great people of Yours?’ Then God said to Solomon: ‘Because this was in your heart, and you have not asked riches or wealth or honor or the life of your enemies, nor have you asked long life—but have asked wisdom and knowledge for yourself, that you may judge My people over whom I have made you king—wisdom and knowledge are granted to you; and I will give you riches and wealth and honor, such as none of the kings have had who were before you, nor shall any after you have the like.’” 2 Chronicles 1:7-12 Consequences of Human Wisdom Human wisdom—revered over the millennia—often serves as a means to denounce the existence of God, justify sin; is foundationally based upon deceptional lies; and misdirects from God’s truths. “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.” Colossians 2:8-10 In addition, the reason why the someone does not seek God’s wisdom (and they embrace human wisdom) is because God’s wisdom does not align with the lies that keep them under the bondage of their sin. “Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you seems to be wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, ‘He catches the wise in their own craftiness;’ and again, ‘The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile.’” 1 Corinthians 3:18-20 Human and Godly Wisdom In Action Here is a comparison between how one may respond to a challenging situation. It is safe to say that each of us can relate to the left side of the table…because we are all guilty of believing in our vain wisdom, and we have all experienced the negative consequences. God’s truths enhance our spiritual understanding, and cleanses our soul from the dirt and grime accumulated from the consequences of sin. The Next Step “Yes, if you cry out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding, if you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding; He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk uprightly; He guards the paths of justice, and preserves the way of His saints. Then you will understand righteousness and justice, equity and every good path. When wisdom enters your heart, and knowledge is pleasant to your soul, discretion will preserve you; understanding will keep you.” Proverbs 2:3-11 Holy God; in the name of Jesus Christ, my Savior and my Lord; I ask for Your wisdom. Holy Spirit, I open my heart, my mind and my soul to Your guidance as You expand my knowledge of the mystery of God and reveal the treasures of His wisdom. Teach me how to love God with all of my being; help me to express His love towards others; and help me to glorify God in all that I do—for nothing else is worthy. Amen. “Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, let not the mighty man glory in his might, nor let the rich man glory in his riches; but let him who glories glory in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord, exercising lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth. For in these I delight, says the Lord.” Jeremiah 9:23-24 May God richly bless you with His understanding, His knowledge, and His wisdom. Harold D. Thomas Bible Study Thought-Provoking Questions The purpose of the questions is to facilitate a deeper understanding of the Bible, this Bible study topic, and ourselves. The questions may be answered by each reader, or used by a Bible study group leader, or church pastor. The questions should be answered or discussed after reading “Wisdom.” In addition, the questions are designed to enhance learning via the determination of personal opinions and/or discovering how the lesson content relates to our personal lives. As such, no answers are provided. Questions This lesson began by asking how you define wisdom. After completing the reading has your perception of wisdom changed? If yes, explain. What is the interrelationship between knowledge and wisdom, and can you have one without the other? A litmus test for wisdom (human or godly) is based upon to what degree the wisdom magnifies love towards God and others. • Do you agree or disagree? Explain. • Looking back in time when you responded to a situation…is this litmus test relevant? Does it provide a different and insightful perspective of what occurred? • Looking forward, is this litmus test a good thing to add to your thoughts when confronted with a challenging situation? Explain. Can you identify: • At least 3 negative consequences of human wisdom, and 3 positive benefits of godly wisdom? • At least 3 positive benefits of human wisdom, and 3 negative consequences of godly wisdom? The lesson states, “God’s truths enhance our understanding, and cleanses our soul from the dirt and grime accumulated from the consequences of sin.” • How does God’s truth enhance our understanding? Can you provide examples? • How can sin deposit and accumulate dirt and grime within our soul? o What does “dirt and grime” represent? o What are the consequences of dirt and grime? o Have you ever felt spiritually “slimy” due to an evil person, or when in a sinful environment? • How does God’s truth cleanse our soul? What must one do to obtain and enhance godly wisdom? 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