Wisdom According to the Bible and How to Attain It

Introduction

Wisdom is one of the most valuable treasures a person can possess. Unlike mere knowledge, which is the accumulation of facts, wisdom is the ability to apply knowledge in a godly and discerning way. The Bible places immense importance on wisdom, presenting it as a divine gift that leads to life, peace, and righteousness.

Proverbs 4:7 (ESV) declares:

"The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight."

This sermon will explore:

1. The Biblical Definition of Wisdom

2. The Source of True Wisdom

3. The Benefits of Wisdom

4. How to Attain Wisdom

5. Living Wisely in a Foolish World

1. The Biblical Definition of Wisdom

Wisdom in the Bible is not merely human intelligence or cleverness. True wisdom is rooted in the fear of the Lord and aligns with God’s truth.

• Wisdom Begins with the Fear of the Lord
  Proverbs 9:10 (ESV) says:

  "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight."

  To "fear the Lord" does not mean being terrified of God but having a reverential awe of His holiness, power, and authority. It means recognizing that God is the source of all truth and submitting to His ways.

• Wisdom vs. Worldly Knowledge
  The world often equates wisdom with education, experience, or shrewdness. But James 3:13-17 contrasts earthly wisdom (which is selfish and unspiritual) with heavenly wisdom (which is pure, peace-loving, and full of mercy).

  "Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom... But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere." (James 3:13, 17 ESV)

  True wisdom produces godly character and righteous living.

2. The Source of True Wisdom

Human wisdom is limited and flawed, but divine wisdom comes from God alone.

• God’s Wisdom is Perfect
  Romans 11:33 (ESV) proclaims:

  "Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!"

  God’s wisdom is infinite, and He freely offers it to those who seek Him.

• Jesus Christ, the Wisdom of God
  1 Corinthians 1:24 (ESV) calls Christ:

  "The power of God and the wisdom of God."

  Those who follow Jesus walk in wisdom because He is the embodiment of divine truth (Colossians 2:3).

• The Holy Spirit as Our Guide
  John 16:13 (ESV) says:

  "When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth."

  The Holy Spirit illuminates Scripture, convicts us of sin, and leads us into wise living.

3. The Benefits of Wisdom

Wisdom is not just theoretical—it transforms every area of life.

• Wisdom Brings Protection
  Proverbs 2:10-12 (ESV) says:

  "For wisdom will come into your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul; discretion will watch over you, understanding will guard you, delivering you from the way of evil."

  Wisdom helps us avoid destructive decisions and sinful traps.

• Wisdom Leads to Success
  Joshua 1:8 (ESV) promises:

  "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success."

  Success in God’s eyes is not about wealth or fame but about faithfulness and obedience.

• Wisdom Brings Peace and Joy
  Proverbs 3:13-18 (ESV) compares wisdom to a tree of life:

  "Blessed is the one who finds wisdom... Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace."

  A life lived in God’s wisdom is marked by contentment and spiritual fruitfulness.

4. How to Attain Wisdom

Wisdom is a gift from God, but we must actively pursue it.

A. Seek Wisdom Through God’s Word

The Bible is the ultimate manual for wisdom.

• Psalm 119:105 (ESV):

  "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."

• Regular Scripture reading, meditation, and memorization train our minds to think biblically.

B. Pray for Wisdom

James 1:5 (ESV) encourages us:

"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him."

King Solomon, when given the chance to ask God for anything, chose wisdom (1 Kings 3:9). God honored his request because it was aligned with His will.

C. Learn from Wise Counsel

Proverbs 11:14 (ESV) says:

"Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety."

Seeking advice from godly mentors, pastors, and mature believers helps us avoid foolish mistakes.

D. Gain Wisdom Through Experience and Obedience

Wisdom grows as we apply God’s truth in daily life.

• Hebrews 5:14 (ESV) says:

  "Solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil."

• Every trial and decision is an opportunity to grow in wisdom.

E. Fear the Lord and Humble Yourself

Proverbs 15:33 (ESV) teaches:

"The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honor."

Pride leads to foolishness, but humility opens the door to divine wisdom.

5. Living Wisely in a Foolish World

Our culture often celebrates rebellion, instant gratification, and moral relativism. But Christians are called to walk in wisdom.

• Avoid the Foolishness of the World
  Ephesians 5:15-17 (ESV) warns:

  "Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is."

• Be a Light in Darkness
  Matthew 5:16 (ESV) says:

  "Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."

  Wise living is a powerful testimony to unbelievers.

Conclusion: The Call to Pursue Wisdom

Wisdom is not optional—it is essential for every believer. It begins with surrendering to God, immersing ourselves in His Word, and walking in obedience.

Proverbs 3:13-14 (ESV) says:

"Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding, for the gain from her is better than gain from silver and her profit better than gold."

Will you seek wisdom today? Will you ask God for discernment in your decisions? Will you commit to living wisely in a world that rejects God’s truth?

Let us pray:
"Heavenly Father, we ask for Your wisdom today. Teach us to walk in Your ways, to love Your truth, and to live wisely for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen."

May we all grow in the wisdom that comes from above!