The wisdom series: Introduction

What is wisdom? 

There are countless definitions of the word 'wisdom'. Scholars from different generations and from all walks of life have researched this concept and many have come up with propositions and definitions to justify their search. 

Our goal is not to bore you with all the definitions that exists with respect to the subject matter but to bring you perspective from the word of God. 

Wisdom is God's idea, therefore in other to present an accurate definition of the word we need to consult the author of the concept through His written word. 

Wisdom is the ability to view circumstances and situations from God's perspective. 

It is the ability to proffer scriptural solutions to life's challenges. 

Wisdom is knowing what to do, when to do it, how to do it and with whom to do it. 

Wisdom is any principle that is designed or embedded into creation. 

Factored into the design of every living thing are principles that we have come to define as the characteristics of living things. 

These characteristics define all living things. In other words, any entity (business or organization) that desires to thrive must reflect these basic principles.  

Other principles include the law of process, laws that govern growth, the law of faith and the laws that govern increase. These laws are universal because they are not man's idea any violation of these laws is an act of folly and attracts consequences. 

Types Of Wisdom 

The types of wisdom are divided according to their origin or source point. This classification will help us to understand what category of wisdom is responsible for our conduct, world view or approach to life. 

Demonic wisdom 

Diabolic wisdom: This type of wisdom is used by those who practice witchcraft and the occult. This kind of wisdom uses diabolical powers in producing results. 

It often appears to be harmless, however it's side effects are destructive. 

Sensual wisdom 

Common sense: This kind of wisdom is what most people refer to as street smart. Sensual wisdom is the ability to piece facts together and come to a conclusion that seems reasonable and logical. 

This type of wisdom makes people look at life from a logical perspective and resent anything that does not seem logical or appeal to the mind. 

Earthly wisdom 

Academic wisdom: This is the kind wisdom that is acquired through research and academic work. It comes through experimentation, exploration, analysis and observation.

Earthly wisdom has similarities with sensual wisdom in that it only subscribes to that which appeals to the senses. 

Divine wisdom 

This is wisdom from above. It is God's wisdom at work. It is the very wisdom that founded the heavens, the earth and everything in it. 

 The Superiority Of Divine Wisdom 

One reason most people never access divine wisdom is because the uniqueness of this wisdom is not reflected in the method but in the result. 

Wisdom is justified by her children. The proof of wisdom is not often found in the process but in the outcome, therefore those that are shortsighted prefer to live by means that guarantee instant result at the expense of the wisdom that comes from above. 

There are many ways to seek results in life. But the superiority of divine wisdom is in its ability to not only secure results but to secure lasting results without adding sorrow, grief and toil to it. 

Sorrow, grief and toil are the side effects of following a pathway that is not reflective of God's wisdom. 

The path of genuine wisdom is often slow in advancing our lives. This pathway is not glittery nor does it appeal to the mind of the natural person. It is easily ignorable and does not convey any form of beauty nor prestige. 

Yet, to those that seek it diligently it is readily found even at their doorstep and the proof of its presence in the life of an individual is that it only takes you above. 

Wise Sayings 

Most of the idiomatic expressions that we refer to as wise sayings are nothing but philosophical statements that are reflective of either sensual or earthly wisdom. 

Such statements sound nice and also have a natural appeal to our emotions yet they do not convey the true essence of wisdom because they do not have their roots in the word of God. 

They only proffer temporary solutions, instant results and baloom promises. 

A few example of some of the famous wise sayings are listed below: 

• Heaven helps those who helps themselves. 

Heaven helps all men. God causes rain to fall in the good person as well as on the evil person. 

• A bird in the house is worth two in the bush.

This statement violates the principle of faith. It encourages an individual to treasure what he has above above the possibilities that low before him. 

• When in Rome do as the Romans

In other words it is okay to fluctuate in character depending on your current environment. 

• Cleanliness is next to godliness

Cleanliness has nothing to do with godliness. As a matter of fact, godliness is not a function of human ability, it is a gift from God. 

• Ignorance is bliss 

Meaning you are exonerated from what you don't know. Even our human laws oppose this view. Ignorance is not an excuse in the court of law. 

• Two heads are better than one

Productivity is not a function of the quantity of heads present but the quality of heads. 

• If you can't beat them join them

This statement will only lead you into the highway of compromise. You don't have to "beat them" to succeed in life and if you have to fight them and think your strength is not sufficient, then partner with those that can beat them. 

These sayings sound logical yet a careful examination will prove that they are inaccurate and do not have substance to secure an excellent life. 

It is dangerous to build your life, business, career or relationship on such shaky foundations. 

How True Wisdom Comes 

A. The Bible 

The Bible is a compendium of divine wisdom. It is the clearest representation of true wisdom. The wisdom found in the Bible is profitable for every walk of life. It is sad to see the Bible referred to as a religious book alone. This is far from the intent of the Author of the book. 

There is wisdom of healthy living in the Bible. Most of the latest scientific discoveries are not new, the Bible already revealed them. 

There is wisdom for business success,a thriving relationships, organizational excellence, etc. All you have to do is to diligently search it out. 

B. Ask for it

Wisdom can be gifted to you by God all you have to do is ask for it. This was the secret of the greatest and wealthiest king who ever lived, he asked for wisdom and it was given to him. You too can ask for wisdom from God and it will be given unto you. 

C. A study of creation. 

Earlier we stated that wisdom is hidden in creation and a careful study every thing that was created can reveal tremendous levels of wisdom to us. This will be our focus in the next coming posts.

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