Scripture speaks about seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, one of which is wisdom. There is something special about this gift because it is the most used to describe Jesus and the apostles who followed him.
To give you a few examples, Scripture speaks about how, as the child, Jesus “grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him” (Luke 2:40). Later on, it says, “Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52). When our Lord started his ministry, the people often wondered, “Where did this man get this wisdom?” (Matthew 13:54). There are more but let this suffice.
Then, when the apostles were choosing the first deacons of the church, the criterion was wisdom. “Brothers and sisters,” they instructed. “Choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom” (Acts 6:3). Again, there are more, but let me end with one more example because this explains one of the reasons why we need this gift. In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul writes: “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better” (Ephesians 1:17).
The primary purpose of wisdom is to know Christ better, which makes this a gift we absolutely need. When we see, feel, and understand things as Jesus does, we can live in better imitation of him. More than any other gift, we need wisdom in the church today, so let me ask you something that James asked his readers: “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” Wise people are, by heavenly definition, humble people.
“But,” James continues, “if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice” (James 3:13-16). Doesn’t this explain a lot of things that are taking place around us? “But,” — back to James — “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)
Man, I want this so bad! Don’t you? Well, ask for it! Earlier, James had written, “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). Let us choose this gift today so that we can become “wise guys,” but wise in the ways of heaven, not wise in the ways of the world.
God bless you.
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