byIn our daily lives, wisdom is indispensable, influencing our ability to make sound decisions and navigate life effectively. Proverbs 1:5 underscores this by stating,
“A wise person hears and increases in learning, and a person of understanding will acquire wise counsel.”
Wisdom enables individuals to learn, grow, and chart their paths with clarity. Indeed, wisdom is foundational to the creation of the various disciplines we study and practice today. However, wisdom is not innate; it requires intentional effort to cultivate. Recognising its value and actively pursuing it is essential for success and fulfilment. With this in mind, this article will explore what it means to be wise, why wisdom is necessary, and how to cultivate wisdom.
Who is a wise person?
From a worldly perspective, as defined by the Oxford Dictionary of English, wisdom is the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment. A wise person demonstrates these traits. The Bible, while similar in acknowledging these qualities, elevates wisdom to a spiritual dimension, presenting it not merely as a trait but as a spirit—the Spirit of Wisdom (Exodus 28:3). According to scripture, a truly wise person possesses this Spirit, which is a divine gift. God, in His infinite wisdom and love, provides guidance through scripture on the attributes of a wise person.
For example, when we say a wise woman, Proverbs 31:26 says she speaks with wisdom and has the law of kindness on her tongue, offering godly counsel and instruction. Again, when it comes to a wise man, Proverbs 24:5 declares, “A wise man is strong; yea, a man of knowledge increaseth strength,” highlighting the connection between wisdom and strength—both physical and spiritual.
The absence of these traits implies a lack of wisdom. A woman unable to provide godly counsel to her husband or a man lacking strength in character and faith cannot be deemed wise. Similarly, Proverbs 29:11 states, “A fool utters all his mind: but a wise man keeps it in till afterwards,” emphasising the wise person’s ability to exercise restraint and discernment in speech. The Bible outlines many such attributes, offering a comprehensive guide for identifying and cultivating wisdom. Wisdom, therefore, is not only a reflection of experience and judgment but also the evidence of God’s Spirit working within an individual.
Why do you need to be wise?
One must embrace wisdom to avoid being a fool—no alternative exists. Wisdom is essential in every area of life. Without it, positive results will elude you. If you desire to live well, you must seek wisdom. As Psalm 139:1 reminds us, God knows you more deeply than you know yourself, and true wisdom resides in Him.
Imagine choosing a career or course of study that aligns with your God-given purpose. With wisdom, you excel, advancing quickly and achieving success. Without it, this level of fulfilment is unattainable. Wise people lead and govern effectively and are blessed in their endeavours (see Matthew 24:45).
Consider the parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:2). Five were wise, prepared for the bridegroom, and fulfilled their purpose, while the foolish ones missed out. That illustrates the value of wisdom in recognising and acting upon opportunities. A wise person possesses understanding, while the unwise lacks discernment. An unwise person is like a hunter who ignores a rare gem for a common stone. Do not let this describe your life. Embrace wisdom, and you will walk in purpose and success.
How to become wise
The surest way to become wise is to fear God, as Proverbs 9:10 says:
A wise person embodies the principles of Psalm 1:1-2, delighting in God’s law rather than following evil. Such a person also lives by Matthew 6:33, seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. The Bible addresses every life issue, and living according to its principles is the foundation of wisdom. Additionally, wisdom can be instilled through discipline. Proverbs 29:15 teaches,
“The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.”
Similarly, Proverbs 21:11 states,
“When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; by paying attention to the wise, they gain knowledge.”
However, no one can be wiser than God (Proverbs 21:30). Wisdom must be sought from God, not apart from Him. True wisdom involves listening to the Holy Spirit’s guidance and following it. Ignoring His direction reveals the folly of human understanding.
In conclusion, wisdom is a cornerstone of purposeful living, guiding you to make sound decisions, excel in your pursuits, and align with God’s will. It is not merely a trait to be admired but a spirit to be sought intentionally, cultivated through discipline, and rooted in the fear of the Lord. By embracing wisdom, you gain understanding, strength, and discernment, equipping you to fulfil your God-given purpose. Pursue wisdom wholeheartedly, drawing from the Word of God, listening to the Holy Spirit, and applying its principles in every area of life.
