“Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.”
Proverbs 23:12

This week, I want us to reflect on the word ‘Wisdom.’ The Hebrew definition for ‘Wisdom’ is “a skill for living.” You see, this is much different from ‘Knowledge.’ Knowledge can be learned horizontally, meaning that it can be learned from the people around you. You can learn it in a text book, or from witnessing other people going through similar situations.

‘Wisdom,’ however, is attained vertically. It only comes from God, and is sustained through a continued relationship with Him. ‘Wisdom’ takes a persistent pursuit and a diligent commitment to Him. So often we think that God’s just going to do something and drop wisdom into our laps. Instead, it will take work. The number one place that it is going to come into our life is through the reading of Scripture. The Bible says that God will give you wisdom, knowledge, and understanding as you meditate in His Word.

Yet we are not perfect. Even when we pursue wisdom, we will likely make mistakes. This is a natural part of growth. What is important is how we respond to the failures, mistakes, and setbacks. Proverbs 9:8 says, “Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you; rebuke the wise and they will love you.” Wisdom loves to learn from the mistakes, and continues to move forward in spite of them.

This week, let’s pursue wisdom by continuing to press into God’s presence through worship, the reading of Scriptures, and prayer. Also, when we face rebuke, let’s take a step back and learn from the mistakes in order to better seek Him and His wisdom in all situations.