Godly wisdom brings us a biblical perspective about issues we’re facing or deciding in our lives. It’s by God’s wisdom that we can see how to apply the knowledge we have. Knowledge alone isn’t enough to make decisions. We may know a lot about the issue at hand but don’t have the perspective we need. It takes godly wisdom to see through the issues and find the right path.
Solomon is the primary author of the books of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes and is considered to be the wisest man in history. His writings provide us with wisdom for life.
As a young man who was about to become king in Israel, God spoke to Solomon in a dream, saying, “Ask! What shall I give you?” (2 Chronicles 1:7 NKJV).
Solomon’s answer was amazing, and it pleased God. Solomon didn’t ask for wealth, for victory over his enemies, or for personal health. He asked for wisdom to lead God’s people. Notice God’s response to Solomon’s request:
“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 1:11,12 NKJV).
Because Solomon chose to pursue what was most important, God blessed him not only with the wisdom and knowledge he had asked for, but also with the wealth and honor he could have pursued. Solomon had discovered what we all must come to realize: that wisdom is our primary need and can be found only in God’s Word. Everything else pales in the light of God’s wisdom for living.
This is why the pursuit of godly wisdom must be at the top of our priority list. Solomon stated this truth clearly in Proverbs 4:7-9 (TEV):
“Getting wisdom is the most important thing you can do. Whatever else you get, get insight. Love wisdom, and she will make you great. Embrace her, and she will bring you honor. She will be your crowning glory.”
In sharp contrast to godly wisdom is wisdom from the world’s point of view. We hear this type of wisdom touted all of the time, such as strategies for becoming a millionaire, beating the systems, building a successful business, or being an influential person. Although many people have certainly demonstrated that the world’s wisdom can bring successful results in areas such as money or status, that kind of wisdom will always fall short. The person seeking truth for godly living will be left feeling empty, still standing on the outside of God’s best for his life.
As believers, we have God’s Word and His wisdom that redefines true, lasting success. When God’s wisdom redefines our lives, we can see beyond human reasoning and recognize the bigger picture. This godly perspective helps us see how someone can have wealth or status in society and still fail at life. Thus, like Solomon, we are on a continual quest for more of God’s wisdom so we can experience true meaning and fulfillment in our walk with Him.
