What does the Bible say about wisdom?

Wisdom is a central theme throughout the Bible, woven into its narratives, poetry, and teachings. The Bible presents wisdom not merely as human intelligence or knowledge, but as a divine gift that guides righteous living and a deeper understanding of God’s will. This study will explore the biblical concept of wisdom, its source, its significance, and how it is to be sought and applied in the life of a believer, using references from the New King James Version (NKJV).

The Definition and Nature of Wisdom

In the Bible, wisdom is defined as the ability to apply knowledge, understanding, and discernment in a way that honors God and benefits others. It is more than just intellectual capacity; it is practical, moral, and spiritual insight that comes from a reverence for God.

The book of Proverbs, often referred to as the “Book of Wisdom,” begins with a statement that sets the foundation for understanding wisdom: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction” (Proverbs 1:7, NKJV). This verse highlights two crucial aspects of biblical wisdom: first, that true wisdom begins with a proper relationship with God—a relationship characterized by reverence, awe, and obedience; second, that those who reject God’s instruction are labeled as fools, underscoring the moral and spiritual dimensions of wisdom.

Wisdom is personified in Proverbs as a woman calling out to those who lack understanding: “Wisdom calls aloud outside; she raises her voice in the open squares. She cries out in the chief concourses, at the openings of the gates in the city she speaks her words: ‘How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity? For scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge’” (Proverbs 1:20-22, NKJV). Here, wisdom is depicted as something actively seeking out people, urging them to embrace its guidance and avoid the pitfalls of foolishness.

The Source of Wisdom

The Bible is clear that wisdom comes from God. It is not something that humans can attain purely through their own efforts or intellect. James 1:5 provides a direct invitation to seek wisdom from God: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him” (NKJV). This verse underscores the generosity of God in providing wisdom to those who seek it sincerely. It also emphasizes that wisdom is a divine gift, not merely a human achievement.

In the Old Testament, King Solomon is a prime example of someone who sought wisdom from God. When Solomon became king, he prayed for wisdom rather than wealth or power: “Therefore give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?” (1 Kings 3:9, NKJV). God was pleased with Solomon’s request and granted him unparalleled wisdom: “Behold, I have done according to your words; see, I have given you a wise and understanding heart, so that there has not been anyone like you before you, nor shall any like you arise after you” (1 Kings 3:12, NKJV). Solomon’s wisdom became legendary, and his writings, particularly in Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, continue to instruct believers today.

However, Solomon’s life also serves as a cautionary tale. Despite his great wisdom, he strayed from God’s commandments later in life, showing that wisdom must be accompanied by ongoing obedience and humility before God.

The Benefits and Significance of Wisdom

The Bible extols the virtues and benefits of wisdom, presenting it as essential for a life that is pleasing to God and fulfilling to the individual. Proverbs 3:13-18 poetically describes the blessings of wisdom: “Happy is the man who finds wisdom, and the man who gains understanding; for her proceeds are better than the profits of silver, and her gain than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies, and all the things you may desire cannot compare with her. Length of days is in her right hand, in her left hand riches and honor. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, and happy are all who retain her” (NKJV).

These verses highlight several key benefits of wisdom:

1. Happiness and Fulfillment: Wisdom leads to true happiness, which is rooted in a life aligned with God’s will.
2. Value Beyond Material Wealth: Wisdom is described as more valuable than silver, gold, or precious stones, indicating that its worth surpasses material wealth.
3. Long Life and Honor: Wisdom is associated with long life, riches, and honor, suggesting that it leads to a prosperous and respected life.
4. Peace: Wisdom’s paths are described as peaceful, indicating that it leads to harmony and well-being.
5. Tree of Life: Wisdom is metaphorically described as a “tree of life,” indicating that it brings vitality and sustenance to those who embrace it.

Wisdom is also essential for making righteous decisions and avoiding the snares of sin. Proverbs 4:5-7 urges believers to prioritize wisdom above all else: “Get wisdom! Get understanding! Do not forget, nor turn away from the words of my mouth. Do not forsake her, and she will preserve you; love her, and she will keep you. Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding” (NKJV). The repetition of the command to “get wisdom” emphasizes its critical importance in the life of a believer.

Wisdom in the New Testament

The New Testament continues the theme of wisdom, with a particular emphasis on the wisdom that is found in Christ. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often contrasts worldly wisdom with divine wisdom. In 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Paul writes: “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: ‘I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.’ Where is the wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the disputer of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? For since, in the wisdom of God, the world through wisdom did not know God, it pleased God through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe. For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom; but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men” (NKJV).

This passage highlights the paradox of divine wisdom, which often appears as foolishness to those who rely on worldly wisdom. The wisdom of God is ultimately revealed in Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection demonstrate a wisdom that surpasses human understanding. Paul continues this theme in Colossians 2:2-3, where he writes that “in [Christ] are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (NKJV). True wisdom, according to the New Testament, is found in knowing Christ and understanding the mystery of the gospel.

The book of James also provides practical guidance on living wisely. James 3:13-17 contrasts earthly and heavenly 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” (NKJV).

James identifies characteristics of heavenly wisdom:

1. Purity: Heavenly wisdom is morally and spiritually pure.
2. Peacefulness: It promotes peace rather than conflict.
3. Gentleness: It is characterized by humility and gentleness.
4. Willingness to Yield: Heavenly wisdom is open to reason and correction.
5. Mercy and Good Fruits: It is compassionate and results in good deeds.
6. Impartiality and Sincerity: It is fair and genuine.

The Pursuit of Wisdom

The Bible encourages believers to actively seek wisdom. Proverbs 2:1-6 provides a roadmap for pursuing wisdom: “My son, if you receive my words, and treasure my commands within you, so that you incline your ear to wisdom, and apply your heart to understanding; 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” (NKJV).

This passage highlights several actions that one must take to gain wisdom:

1. Receive God’s Words: Embrace and treasure the teachings of Scripture.
2. Incline Your Ear: Be attentive and eager to learn.
3. Apply Your Heart: Diligently seek to understand and apply wisdom.
4. Cry Out for Discernment: Pray and ask God for wisdom.
5. Seek and Search: Pursue wisdom with the same intensity as one would seek material wealth.

The pursuit of wisdom is portrayed as a deliberate and determined effort. It requires humility, recognizing one’s own limitations and dependence on God for true understanding. As believers grow in wisdom, they become more equipped to live lives that reflect God’s character and fulfill His purposes.

Conclusion

The Bible’s teachings on wisdom are profound and multifaceted. Wisdom is depicted as a divine gift that begins with a reverence for God and leads to righteous living. It is more valuable than material wealth and brings blessings such as happiness, peace, and long life. Wisdom is ultimately found in Christ, who embodies the wisdom of God. Believers are called to seek wisdom diligently, recognizing that it comes from God and is essential for a life that honors Him.

In a world that often values knowledge and intellect, the Bible reminds us that true wisdom is rooted in a relationship with God and is expressed in how we live. As James 1:5 encourages, we should continually ask God for wisdom, trusting that He will provide it generously to those who seek it with sincere hearts. Through wisdom, we can navigate life’s challenges, make godly decisions, and grow in our understanding of God’s will, ultimately leading us closer to Him.