“Unto you, O men, I call; …O ye simple, understand wisdom” Pro 8:4, 5

According to the dictionary, wisdom is the ability to discern or judge what is true or right. In simple terms, this ability to discern the right is common sense. I have always thought that a man becomes wise through life’s experiences. But the bible says,“The fear of the lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Ps 111:10, Pro 9:10).

From King Solomon to the common man, wisdom has been one of the most coveted and respected qualities that one would like to acquire. The bible also encourages us to attain wisdom. “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom” (Pro 4:7). It also calls the man who finds wisdom, blessed. (Pro 3:13).

So wisdom has been the priority in my life. I have always tried to make “wise” decisions in everything I did, in choosing my studies, my career, and even friends! But then I realized that I did all these things out of selfish ambitions and worldly care. The bible warns us that such wisdom is earthly, unspiritual and is of the devil. (Jam 3:16)

The wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere (Jam 3:17). It does not sound that bad when you read it. But when you put it into practice, you’ll end up a loser in the eyes of the world. After all in this age, who respects a man who is submissive? Who can be pure? Fortunately, Jesus assures us that. He that loses his life for my sake shall find it. (Mat 10:39). Being a loser isn’t that bad.

In fact, wisdom is one of the explicitly mentioned gifts of the spirit (I Cor 12:8) that God gives liberally to anyone who asks. (Jam 1:5) And like all spiritual gifts, it benefits others more than it benefits us. So that could be a good test. If you find that you are the only one who benefits from your wisdom, it is probably not the wisdom from above.

Accept wisdom’s invitation while you still can.