Wisdom

Proverbs 1:5
 let the wise listen and add to their learning,
    and let the discerning get guidance—

At Bible study the other night, we were reading the first chapter of Proverbs and discussing wisdom.  I've been thinking about what wisdom means to me...

1)  Knowing that good intentions are not enough.
Terrible things have happened with the best intentions, for example, the Crusaders murdering and pillaging throughout the middle ages.  In my own life, I'm seen Christians fail epically and cause great harm taking foolish actions for the 'cause of Christ.'   You must look before you leap into a direction you feel 'called' to pursue.  You must remain very close to Christ so you can wisely determine if it is truly his choice before you commit to taking a questionable action. 

2) Seeking out the best solution, not just any solution to a problem.  A mark of wisdom is the ability to consider a problem from many angles, to explore the impact of possible solutions, and to choose an ideally beneficial resolution.

James 1:4-5
Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.  If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.

3)  Realizing that training, not trying harder, is the key to unlocking spiritual maturity.  Any fool can tell themselves they will overcome a sin, or defeat temptation next time by simply trying harder.  A wise Christian realizes that after a failure, they must train to overcome obstacles in their Christian growth.  Nothing can replace daily times of prayer and Bible study.  Just as you can't run a serious marathon without training, you can't expect to develop spiritual maturity without taking the time to train yourself regularly in God's scriptures and to develop a lifestyle of prayer. 

4)  Understanding the importance of self control is crucial.  If you don't have self discipline, you will not be able to follow Christ.  Self control is a tool that can be used to accomplish any goals or dreams you have for your life.  You must be willing and able to give your all and do your best to reach the heights of your ambitions. 

5)  Prioritizing wisely is the only way you can accomplish all your goals.
You will never have time to pursue every alluring opportunity.  You must make the time to accomplish what is most important to you.  You must decline some tempting commitments in order to develop perseverance and to spend your time wisely to make your dreams come true. 

6) Developing quality is much more important than quantity.  One piece of Godiva chocolate is better than ten candy bars of the discount brand.  Need I say more? 

7)  Becoming a better version of who you are is true personal growth.  Be true to yourself, but following God's heart instead of your own selfish desires.  Study the scriptures to find your identity in Christ.  Release your innermost fears, and let God bless you richly as he shows you how much he loves you.  Learn to see yourself through heaven's eyes.
 "We are what we believe we are." -C.S. Lewis
Proverbs 3:5-6
 Trust in the Lord with all your heart
    and lean not on your own understanding; 
 in all your ways submit to him,
    and he will make your paths straight

8)  Choosing to cultivate your relationships with wise people.  "You become like the people you interact with." -Donald Miller

James 3:13 
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.