In today’s turbulent environment, wisdom given by God leads to better understanding of the times conditions. The biblical words of Proverbs give us an example of a father’s wise instruction: “Be attentive that you may gain insight.” He is specific and encouraging, saying, “get wisdom; get insight; do not forget, and do not turn away from the words of my mouth.”
Wisdom is key to understanding and making the best decisions about how things work in and around our environment. With wisdom guiding your journey, Proverbs says: “When you walk, your steps will not be impeded; when you run, you will not stumble.”
There are countless reasons why wisdom is crucial. For example, wisdom guides doctors in understanding and advising us about health concerns and medical conditions. If we are not wise enough to heed the doctor’s advice, we may not get well or recover. And if we don’t, we can always seek a second opinion.
The distinguished Haddon Robinson, an American evangelical and Harold John Ockenga Distinguished Professor of Preaching, observed that up until 1955 knowledge doubled about every five years. Undoubtedly, the current rate at which knowledge is doubling far surpasses that of the past. Educators note that high school graduates now encounter more information about the world than historical figures such as Plato, Aristotle, or Benjamin Franklin ever did, despite their remarkable wisdom for their time.
In terms of facts alone, neither Moses nor Apostle Paul could pass a college entrance exam today. Yet even with all our knowledge, many adults who are well educated and earning a good living still struggle because they lack the wisdom to navigate life’s challenges.
Let’s face it, knowledge alone is not enough to meet life’s demands and problems. C. H. Spurgeon, a renowned English Baptist minister once remarked, “to know how to use knowledge is to have wisdom.” The bottom line is this: the more information you are exposed to, the more you need to pray for wisdom.
Wisdom is gained from God. The word of God teaches that the Lord gives wisdom and from his mouth comes knowledge and understanding. Wisdom can be acquired through experience, but experience alone does not automatically bestow wisdom. So, seek God’s wisdom and your foundation in life will remain strong in times of uncertainty. And Never Give Up! Never Give Up! Never Give Up!
By Dr. Walter Ghosten
chaplain@lhp.net
