The difference between knowledge and wisdom

Have you ever considered wisdom?

What it is and where it comes from? And how to get it?

The book of Proverbs notes that fear of God is the beginning of knowledge (Prov. 1.7).
So the source of wisdom is God, and all wisdom is grounded in a fear (reverence, acknowledgment) of God.

That is true wisdom.

But, where do we get it?

Amazingly enough the apostle James writes that we can ask God for it! (James 1.5). 

James goes on to encourage us that when we ask we can expect God to give wisdom "liberally and without reproach." So we know that God not only is the source of wisdom, but God is ready and willing to freely give it to all who ask.

James also writes: “If you are wise and understand God’s ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom.” (James 3.13)

There is an expectation then, that wisdom will influence the way we live and how we act. People should be able to tell that we have wisdom because of our actions.

In Western culture, many people believe that academic (factual) knowledge equals wisdom. But that’s simply not true. There is a difference between knowledge and wisdom.

There is also a predisposition nowadays to rely on others as sources of wisdom instead of seeking it for ourselves. Oftentimes the “others” who are relied upon are celebrities who, more often than not, have no idea of what they are talking about. 

In the end, each of us is responsible for our own thoughts. 

That’s why Paul wrote to the Corinthians (and us) to "take every thought captive." (2 Corn. 10.5.) He was encouraging followers of God's Son to pay attention to what they are thinking. To not blindly accept every thought that came into their heads.

It is easy to be led astray when we rely on popular culture to guide us in making moral decisions.

Oftentimes opinions given in response to current events may seem to the point and relevant. Especially in regards to making promises towards corrective action. But just as often, those same words prove to be empty as promises are broken.

On the other hand, God's word (which includes God's wisdom) does not return empty, but it accomplishes its purpose. (Is. 55.11).

In a world that is a breeding ground for confusion, it's comforting to know where real wisdom lies!

What do you think? Where is your source of wisdom?

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