The Benefits of Wisdom Wisdom is the capacity to see things from Gods perspective and respond according to scriptural principles. What are a few of the benefits to seeking the Lords wisdom? Lets look at what the Bible says. A. Clear Guidance From God Those who walk in wisdom receive the Fathers direction for their lives. While Gods children still have some painful experiences, they are spared many mistakes and false starts. Biblical principles spare believers numerous wrong decisions and hurtful relationships. Nobody is better qualified to guide your steps or lead you onto the right path than God. • According to Proverbs 3:5-6, what attitude best facilitates the Lords direction in a persons life? • What benefits does Proverbs 3:21-26 promise to those who keep sound wisdom and discretion (v. 21)? When we walk in divine wisdom, we can rest assured that the Lord is with us always. He wont allow us to enter into any situation that He has not anticipated. Nor will He permit a circumstance unless He intends it for our good. B.Gods Divine Protection Wisdom protects us from various sources of wickedness,including: 1. Evil in such forms as dangerous situations, harmful substances, and destructive circumstances. We are to reject evil and flee from it whenever possible. • What attitude gets a fool (unwise person) into trouble, with regard to evil (Prov. 14:16)? 1. People who entice us to do evil: Any person who tempts you to sin is not a friend. He or she wants to lead you into a situation that will ultimately cause you loss or harm (Prov. 2:10-18). • Why should we not be close friends with those who have ungodly lifestyles (Prov. 24:1-2; 1 Cor. 15:33)? 1. Misleading emotions: Many people live according to the whims of their emotions. But what feels goodisnt always beneficial for us. Instead, we are called to trust the Holy Spirit for guidance rather than our desires, impulses, and feelings. • Why should we not trust our hearts (Prov. 28:26)? • Briefly describe a choice you made based on what felt good rather than what the Lord wanted you to do. What did you learn from that experience? C. A Good Self-Image You are extremely important to God. The Father loves you, values you, and desires a close relationship with you. He has a specific plan for your life. These facts should give you confidence and a strong self-image. • Write down a few benefits of finding wisdom, according to Proverbs 8:32-35. At the very core of our self-image is the desire to be loved and regarded as lovable. Only God can fully satisfy that need. When we accept that He loves us unconditionally, we have the foundation for healthy, godly self-esteem. • Some believers feel God no longer loves them because of sin. Why is this rationale not biblical (Rom. 5:8)? • What should our attitude be toward ourselves (Prov. 19:8; Matt. 22:39)? A proper, healthy love for yourself leads to generosity and selfless giving. It also fills you with confidence to move against the tide of popular opinion when necessary. Why? God loves and approves of you, and His opinion is the only one that matters. • Where are you in your journey to healthy self-esteem? D. Whole-Person Prosperity The heavenly Father blesses us—and that involves our spirits, minds, and bodies (3 John 2). Prosperity from Gods perspective includes material goods as well as our relationships, health, and happiness, plus fruitfulness in His kingdom. • Proverbs 8:17-21 talks about enduring riches and righteousness—in other words, eternal wealth, such as knowing the Lord. What phrases in this passage indicate that earthly prosperity is included? • What characterizes God-given riches (Prov. 10:22)? God provides for us who are His children—not simply for our own enjoyment, but also to enable our generosity to people in need. • This week, how could you bless another person with your spiritual, physical, or material riches? E. Good Health and a Long Life No one can promise another person a long life or healing from a particular disease. But in general, godly living is characterized by healthier living and length of days. • How does walking wisely affect your body (Prov. 3:7-8)? Individuals who walk in wisdom utilize their time carefully because they view each day as valuable. They seek to use their gifts, talents, and other resources for Gods glory and His purposes. They take care of their bodies by getting physical exercise, adequate sleep, nutritious food, and sufficient relaxation. • In what way does the paragraph above not describe your life? What can you do this week to change that? Closing: Wisdom saves us from many difficulties in this life. It equips us to handle difficult circumstances and positions us to receive eternal rewards. So discover and apply Gods wisdom for every situation—you wont regret it. Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word, which reveals how I am to live. Enable me to listen closely to Your voice, apply the principles of Scripture, and experience all the benefits of making wise choices. Amen.
Posted on: Mon, 05 Jan 2015 01:12:57 +0000