Which wisdom?

There is a lot of “wisdom” in the world. All you have to do is go to a library or bookstore and you can find hundreds of self-help books telling you how to succeed, be transformed, or change your life.

The reality is that while some of these books contain good advice, the best advice comes from God. Before we try harder, read another book, or Google “becoming a better person,” we should turn to God for guidance.

The first key in gaining wisdom is to submit to God. As James says, “the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” (James 3:17)

While people spend millions – if not billions – of dollars every year seeking to discover wisdom, the best place to start won’t cost them much at all, at least financially.

I believe that the problem with some people is that they are willing to give up money for wisdom, but they’re not willing to give up their desires. We live in a world driven by desire and selfish ambition. According to the world’s standards, the wisest people are often the ones who know how to manipulate, scheme, and do whatever it takes to be successful.

In the Kingdom of God, things are the exact opposite. The first will be last and the last will be first. The greatest among you will be your servant. These are the signs of true wisdom; wisdom born of God.

Unfortunately, it seems as though many Christians subscribe to the world’s attitude about wisdom. We come to church asking what’s in it for me? We complain when the church doesn’t meet our needs. When we are not being served, we might look for a church that provides what we want.

I wonder how much different the church in America would be if followers of Jesus gathered to ask what they can give and what they can do for others. How would it affect our attitude about the hymns we sing, the programs we offer, and a variety of other issues that churches so often fight about? Maybe one of the biggest problems for the church is that we’re living according to the wisdom of the wrong kingdom.

 

shine!
Jason