Acquiring wisdom requires a slowing down and thoughtful process of pursuing something more priceless than gold and silver and a willingness to apply it intentionally.
A good place to start in pursuing wisdom is to ask yourself why you want it, which means what you will do with it?
There are many worthy purposes, from being good parents to becoming the spiritual leader you genuinely desire to be. However, the clarity of knowing why you seek wisdom will shape how you ask, what you listen for, and the insights you gain.
I often struggle with slowing down, and I’ve learned that there is nothing wise about that.
The irony is plain to see.
Nothing on my to-do list is more important than seeking God and His wisdom.
Wisdom is not instant; it’s a cumulative process of layer upon layer. It’s like a bank account of great value, but investments must be made.
It does not come without discipline and a willingness to reflect in quiet and wait while continuing to lead. The beauty is that we are not required to beg God and hope. Instead, he wants to give you wisdom.
How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver! (Proverbs 16:16)
2. Looking Up
God is the source of wisdom, and we are instructed to ask if we are in need.
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. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. (James 1:5-6)
I love the simple promise of asking for and receiving wisdom. (James 1:5-6) You probably do, too. However, the next verse requires something of us—belief, not doubt, meaning faith and trust.
That is not always easy. I know God can, but will He and when? Or did He already answer, and I wasn’t able to hear?
God is a generous God but desires for wisdom to be applied in a way that glorifies Him and His purpose. In other words, in alignment with His will.
Perhaps that’s why wisdom sometimes seems slow in coming. But rest assured, it’s not God who is unwilling to answer our prayers for wisdom. Sometimes we are not ready for it just yet.
Keep praying, and don’t give up.
For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. (Proverbs 2:6)
3. Digging In
Slowing down, asking God, and what’s next? Digging in.
