And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord. Isaiah 11:2
With technology at our fingertips, knowledge abounds. But wisdom seems less prevalent. Wisdom is loosely defined as the application of knowledge into real life situations. Biblical wisdom uses spiritual discernment in applying Truth to life in ways that advance godliness.
The Holy Spirit is referred to as the Spirit of Wisdom in both the old and new testaments. Wisdom is poetically personified in Proverbs. We see in chapter eight of Proverbs that she was there at the beginning of creation, that those who listen and obey are blessed, and those who find her also find life. This imagery points us to the work and person of the Spirit as well as the Word described in John 1.
… that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him. Ephesians 1:17
As His children, the Spirit is given to us to work in and through our lives. He provides wisdom for us day-to-day. While making wise choices may lead us to a better life here, that’s not the primary reason the Spirit gives us wisdom. He imparts wisdom so that we may know Him better. He builds relationship with us.
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. James 1:5
I can always use more wisdom, experience the Spirit more fully. Fortunately, God promises to provide just that when we sincerely ask. He is eager to dispense wisdom generously to His children – for it leads us back to Him. And what could be more valuable than that? Give me ears to hear.
How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver! Proverbs 16:16
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