Weekly Devotional: Seeking Wisdom and Knowledge

“Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her; those who hold her fast will be blessed.” — Proverbs 3:13-18, NIV

There are very few people in the world who would not like to have more wisdom. Wisdom relates to using knowledge for sound intelligent and sturdy decision-making.

Some people may want wisdom when it comes to their finances. Other people with their relationships. Still others may want wisdom when it comes to making future plans. As Christians, it is important we learn how to apply Godly wisdom to all areas of our lives.

We may not always want to seek wisdom and knowledge. It may feel simpler to take the easiest path or make choices that benefit us without regards to the future or others. Although it may feel good temporarily to follow an unwise path, in the long run, wisdom is a valuable asset and has the possibility to change our lives and the lives of those around us.

Looking for Opportunities to Develop Wisdom

“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” — Ephesians 5:15-16, NIV

Using and applying wisdom to our lives is a skill. It does not happen overnight. There is no magic process to become wise. Rather wisdom requires daily practice and “making the most of every opportunity” (Ephesians 5:26). Each day we ask God to give us opportunities to be wise in our-decision making.

Praying for Wisdom and Knowledge

“For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives” — Colossians 1:9, NIV

In order to be wise, we must also have knowledge to help us as we make wise choices. How does one gain knowledge? Prayer should never be taken for granted when we are striving to make wise choices. Paul wrote to the church in Colossae saying he was praying for knowledge of God’s will and wisdom through the Spirit.

As the body of Christ, we can also pray for wisdom and knowledge for other believers. James 5:16 says, “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” Praying for those around us is a powerful way to increase wisdom and follow God’s will.

Wisdom in Proverbs

“How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!” — Proverbs 16:16, NIV

All of the books of the Bible have powerful meaning and application in today’s world. This includes teaching us about how to wise and knowledgeable in our lives. Proverbs is a book that is full of wisdom and advice. When we are searching for wisdom, it is a good place to start.

Verses about wisdom in Proverbs:

• The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. — Proverbs 1:7, NIV
• A fool finds pleasure in wicked schemes, but a person of understanding delights in wisdom. — Proverbs 10:23, NIV
• The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out. —Proverbs 18:15, NIV
• Know also that wisdom is like honey for you: If you find it, there is a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off. — Proverbs 24:14, NIV
• Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom are kept safe. —Proverbs 28:26, NIV

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