Daily Archive

Those who are wise will shine as bright as the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness will shine like the stars forever. Daniel 12:3

“Would you rather have wisdom, or knowledge?”

Some may say knowledge. In fact our society is enraptured with the idea that gaining more knowledge will solve our social ills. Millions of dollars are spent each year in the United States on studies to see how we can increase the knowledge of our children.

Ironically, the more money we spend on education, the worse society seems to be. Even within the church we see a plethora of resources to guide Christians in a closer walk with Christ. Yet Biblical illiteracy is at an all time high and church attendance in many areas is sagging. Knowledge alone is obviously not the answer.

Perhaps that’s why Solomon, considered to be the richest King in history, didn’t ask for money or knowledge, he asked for wisdom.

Daniel says that the wise, not the knowledgeable, will shine like the light of the heavens. Here in the northern hemisphere we look forward to the no-so-frequent appearance of the Aurora Borealis, or northern lights. On a good night, the sky seems to be aflame with lights dancing and waving across the heavens.

As believers in Christ, we are called to be wise. It’s not an option. It’s not set aside for those who have been more blessed with riches and resources. Wisdom isn’t measured by what I have, but how I use what I have. I know many people of simple means who are by far wiser than those with fancy titles after their names.

So, how can I be wise? Here are some tips go gain wisdom.

First of all, ASK. That may seem too simple, but James tells us in James 1:5 that “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” It may seem too simple, but who better to ask than the creator of the universe. Growing closer to Him helps us to see life as he sees it which, by the way will be markedly different than many ‘experts’ of the day.

Secondly, SEEK out those who seem to have wisdom glean from them by listening and learning. Don’t simply seek out the people with fancy cars and fancy titles. Seek those who exhibit on a daily basis the love, grace and mercy of Jesus Christ. There is no real wisdom aside from Christ.

Lastly, and this is the most difficult, KEEP ON! Teachers can teach you knowledge. Preachers can teach you Godliness. Only life can teach you wisdom. As you seek a closer relationship with God; as you learn from those who have gone before you, be patient with yourself. Learn from your mistakes and the mistakes of others. Soon you’ll find you are shining like the very stars in heaven and people will Give God the glory for who you are.

PRAYER: Lord God, there as so many times when I fail. There are so many times when I live according to my own expectations or the expectations of others. Empower me with your Spirit so that I can live according to your wisdom so others will see you in me. In Jesus name, Amen.