The Bible instructs: “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost you all you have, get understanding” (Proverbs 4:7, NIV).
Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do.
The Bible places a high premium on this attribute is because wisdom doesn’t travel alone. When wisdom joins the party, you end up with a bunch of other freebies too. Wisdom’s companions include counsel, discernment, justice, and equity.
Prudence, wisdom’s bestie, offers this: “‘I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion’” (Proverbs 8:12, NIV).
Some say that prudence is wisdom’s twin sister, a fine-tuned aspect of the virtue. But a closer look reveals the differences, if only slightly.
C.S. Lewis writes:
“Prudence means practical common sense, taking the trouble to think about what you are doing and what is likely to come of it…[God] wants us to be simple, single-minded, affectionate, and teachable, as good children are; but He also wants every bit of intelligence we have to be alert at its job, and in first-class fighting trim.”
Life often leaves us torn between competing choices. We don’t know the way forward. All options look good from our perspective. During these times, we need wisdom and her companion discernment.
“Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance” (Proverbs 1:5, NIV).
Wisdom doesn’t leave home without humility. James’s epistle addresses teachers who “lack wisdom” (James 1:5). He then goes on to say, “But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth. This wisdom is not that which comes down from above….” (James 3:14-15, NIV).
And for all who idolize education, here’s the best friend of wisdom: “For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul” (Proverbs 2:10, NIV).
Wisdom is more than just practical know-how. This rich soil is pre-loaded with God’s best spiritual nutrients.
Want to be more just?
Ground yourself in wisdom.
Want to be more discerning?
Ground yourself in wisdom.
Want more common sense?
Ground yourself in wisdom.
Want more knowledge?
Ground yourself in wisdom.
Wisdom is God’s piñata. From the outside, it looks like a flimsy piece of papier-mâché with ribbons of colorful tissue attached. It’s attractive on its own.
But the Bible tells us that if we take a whack at wisdom, the piñata will crack open and spill much more on our lives than we ever expect.
Many things are necessary to live the life that God intends, but flourishing remains impossible unless you are grounded in wisdom.
Are you stuck or lost or confused or ill equipped? Going to class is good. But going to God is better.
What would a flourishing life look like for you? Take a moment and imagine…
Instead of surviving your days, you savor each moment. You pour into the lives of others, and it’s a joy, not a chore. And every hour, you are deeply, dazzlingly aware of God’s love and presence.
God intends this flourishing life for you. And it can start today.
Through Flourish, you will:
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Plant yourself in the depths of God’s immeasurable love.
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Put down roots of wisdom as you commit Scripture to memory.
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Grow in courage through persistent and consistent prayer.
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Blossom in freedom by facing the fears that hold you back.
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The lush life awaits. Are you ready to flourish?
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