Pursuing Wisdom is Pursuing Christ
Seeking What is Good and Right in Our Daily Lives
Recently, my wife and I have started taking our kids through the book of Proverbs, which is one of Scripture's go-to books for wisdom. While we desperately want our kids to live for Christ and make sound decisions (just like every other parent), we know that this work can only be accomplished by God’s leading and guidance.
Because of this, I have been thinking through what wisdom is and how critical it is in the life of the believer. Wisdom is something every Christian is called to, not just pastors, theologians, or those few sages around us with their years of life experience. The call to be wise is not reserved for a special few; it is essential for every Christian. Every day, we make small and perhaps even big decisions, respond to different situations, and interact with people who can also vary in personality and maturity. The question is not whether we should seek wisdom, but what (or who) will teach us the kind of wisdom we need?
What Is Biblical Wisdom?
The Bible defines wisdom differently from the way the world does. Wisdom is not simply being smart, educated, or experienced. At its core, wisdom is the ability to live rightly before God.
Proverbs 9:10 (ESV) says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.” This means wisdom begins with a right relationship with God. It starts with reverence, trust, and an understanding that it’s better to follow His ways rather than our own.
Without that foundation, we may gain knowledge but lack true wisdom.
Wisdom Shows Up in Daily Life
Wisdom is not theoretical; it is practical. It shows up in the ordinary moments of life.
It affects:
How we speak to others.
How we respond when we are frustrated.
How we make decisions.
How we handle responsibility.
James 3:13 (ESV) says that wisdom is seen in “good conduct” and “the meekness of wisdom.” In other words, wisdom is something people can observe. It is lived out, not just talked about.
Wisdom and Our Words
One of the places wisdom appears in our lives is in how we choose to speak to one another.
Proverbs 15:2 (ESV) says, “The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouths of fools pour out folly.” Think about how often words can either help or hurt. A wise person speaks carefully, truthfully, and graciously.
In everyday conversations with family, coworkers, or church members, wisdom helps us:
Avoid unnecessary conflict.
Speak the truth without being harsh.
Know when to speak and when to stay silent.
Without wisdom, our words can damage relationships. With wisdom, they can build others up (see Ephesians 4:29-32).
Wisdom in Decision-Making
Life is full of decisions, and many of them are not clearly right or wrong. That is where wisdom proves vital.
1 Corinthians 10:23 (ESV) reminds us, “All things are lawful, but not all things are helpful.” Wisdom helps us ask better questions:
Is this beneficial?
Will this build others up?
Does this honor God?
A wise person looks beyond the current moment and considers the long-term impact. Wisdom helps us avoid choices that may seem harmless now but lead to problems later.
Wisdom in Relationships
Relationships are often where life becomes most complicated. Misunderstandings, hurt feelings, and conflict are part of living in a fallen world.
Proverbs 19:11 (ESV) says, “Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense.” Wisdom helps us slow down, think carefully, and respond with patience.
In everyday relationships, wisdom helps us:
Be patient instead of reactive.
Show grace instead of taking offense.
Know when to address an issue and when to let it go.
This is especially important in the church, where solidarity matters deeply. Wisdom helps us preserve that unity by living in both humility and love.
Wisdom in Difficult Times
Trials are a part of life. Whether it is stress, loss, uncertainty, or conflict, we all deal with challenges. In those moments, it is easy to react emotionally or make impulsive decisions.
James 1:5 (ESV) gives us a clear promise: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God… and it will be given him.” God invites us to seek His wisdom, especially when life is hard.
In difficult times, wisdom helps us:
Respond with faith as opposed to fear.
Trust God’s purpose even when we do not understand
Make steady, thoughtful decisions under pressure.
Rather than being controlled by circumstances, wisdom helps us stay anchored in God’s truth.
Wisdom in Stewardship
God has entrusted each of us with time, energy, and resources. Wisdom helps us use these things well.
Psalm 90:12 (ESV) says, “Teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.” This reminds us that life is short and should be lived with intentionality.
In stewardship, wisdom helps us:
Prioritize what actually matters.
Avoid wasting time on distractions.
Invest in things that have eternal value.
Without wisdom, it is easy to stay busy but accomplish very little.
Wisdom Is Found in Christ
Ultimately, wisdom isn’t simply a principle; it is found in a Person.
1 Corinthians 1:30 (ESV) says that Christ “became to us wisdom from God.” This means that growing in wisdom is directly connected to growing in our relationship with Jesus.
Colossians 2:3 (ESV) adds that in Christ “are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” If we want wisdom, we must look to Him.
We grow in wisdom by:
Spending time in God’s Word.
Praying to gain understanding.
Seeking godly counsel.
Walking closely with Christ.
A Daily Pursuit
Wisdom is not gained all at once. It is developed over time as we consistently seek God and apply His truth to our lives.
In daily moments, conversations, decisions, challenges, and responsibilities, wisdom quietly shapes who we are becoming.
The important question is simple to arrive at: Are we pursuing wisdom?
Because a life formed by wisdom honors God, blesses others, and avoids many unnecessary regrets. And that kind of life is not out of reach; on the contrary, it is available to anyone willing to seek it from the Lord.
Great follow up to Sunday's sermon.