Someone has aptly said, “There is no jewel more spoken of in Scripture, and none more seldom possessed, than wisdom.” Men covet gold, applause, and advancement — but Heaven declares, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom” (Prov. 4:7). Let’s be clear, we are not talking about the philosophy and wisdom of the classroom, political craftiness, or business acumen; we are talking about the divinely gifted skill to see a situation the way God sees it and make right and perceptive decisions accordingly.
The definition of biblical wisdom that we have been using in our Sunday morning Bible Study at church is: Wisdom is the God-given skill that enables us to navigate
the complicated maze of life in a God-honoring and Bible-centered manner.
What are some of the ground rules for gaining biblical wisdom? What are some of the basics for gaining this kind of Bible-based wisdom?
First, there must be conversion. The soil must be broken before the seed can grow. “The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God” (1 Cor. 2:14). An unrenewed heart may admire divine truth but it will never willingly submit to it. Wisdom does not dwell where self reigns. The proud heart may be clever, but it is never wise. When Christ becomes Lord, when repentance bows the will to His sovereignty, when grace changes the affections — then is the soul prepared for this wisdom. Not until then.
Second, there must be the fear of the Lord. “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Prov. 9:10). This fear is not slavish dread but reverent awe — a deep, burning persuasion that God is holy, that His Word is final, and that every thought and deed stands exposed to His holiness. Where this holy fear abides, sin is restrained, speech is guarded, and motives are purified. Remove the fear of God, and folly rushes in as a flood.
Third, there must be asking in prayer. “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God” (James 1:5). The gravest danger to maturity is self-confidence. Years of experience are no substitute for present dependence on God. The wise man is often on his knees. He distrusts his own judgment. He seeks counsel from above. Heaven does not mock the humble petitioner.
Fourth, there must be a diligent searching of the Word. Wisdom is not scattered upon the surface like dust; it is buried as treasure. Proverbs 2:4 calls us to “…seek her as silver and search for her as for hidden treasures”. The careless reader will never be a wise saint. Casual Bible exposure produces shallow convictions. Meditation must accompany reading. Comparison of Scripture deepens one’s understanding of Scripture. The Word must be hidden in the heart that it might be quickly retrieved in the moment of need. A Bible unopened produces a conscience unenlightened. Wisdom is not accidental; it requires effort and perseverance on our part.
Fifth, there must be obedience. Our Lord declared that “whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man…” (Matt. 7:24). Truth that is admired but not obeyed becomes a witness against us. Obedience sharpens perception, disobedience darkens it. Many pray for wisdom while resisting the light already given. God grants further light to those who walk in the light they already have.
There is much more that could be said but these are five core necessities that we must begin with.
Permit one illustration — A mariner may possess charts, compass, and seasoned judgment; yet if he disregards the lighthouse, his ship will find the rocks. Conversion places him in the vessel. The fear of God makes him respect the warning beam. Prayer keeps him attentive. Scripture provides the navigation chart. Obedience keeps the helm steady. Neglect any one of these and ruin lurks nearby.
