it's yours if you want it

"Knowledge is needed to pass the test in school, but wisdom is needed to pass the test in life.
Knowledge is learned, wisdom is given.
Knowledge comes by looking around, wisdom comes by looking up.
Knowledge comes by study, wisdom comes by meditation with God.
Wisdom teaches one how to apply his knowledge"
Adrian Rogers

The above quote taken from an article written by Adrian Rogers, provides an excellent, yet simple distinction between wisdom and knowledge. I believe wisdom is being able to make the right decisions or choices in the situations we face, while knowledge is an understanding of God and who we are in him. Throughout the book of Proverbs the importance and value of both wisdom and knowledge are presented. Proverbs 1:7 states that knowledge begins when we fear God. Proverbs 2 -4 speaks to the benefits of wisdom. Proverbs 8 -9 expands further on the advantages of wisdom and knowledge. I encourage you to read the book of Proverbs for a deeper insight into these two important subjects.

James 1:5 tells us that wisdom comes from God. A description of godly wisdom found in James 3:17, is said to be pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Knowledge requires discipline (Proverbs 12:1). Wisdom and knowledge are made possible through the spirit of God (I Corinthians 12: 8). Possessing both will result in a prosperous life(Ezekiel 28:4). In order to acquire knowledge we must begin with a fear and reverence for God through studying his word. Acquiring wisdom involves asking of God and believing that we receive it (James 1:5-6).

Knowledge is gained through study, be it a study of God's word or specific academic disciplines. Knowledge of God's word will allow us to be victorious in all areas of our lives, while academic knowledge provides the opportunity to be successful in particular jobs or careers. Knowledge requires discipline and hard work. My knowledge of God's word is a continuous process. The knowledge and revelation I have received so far from his word, have delivered me from numerous destructive habits and behaviors. I have learned to forgive, received emotional healing and have experienced the peace and hope that comes from understanding who I am in God. I am also acquiring academic knowledge as part of my life long career goals. A continuous pursuit of both I believe will create the prosperity spoken of in the book of Ezekiel.

I have asked God for wisdom and discernment and have witnessed these in my ability to make wiser decisions. It is also evident in my tendency to seek and trust God with life decisions (no matter how small or insignificant), and to submit my plans and desires to him. As a result I am less anxious about the future, more confident about what I can do with God's help than on my own and have learned to maintain my peace in spite of life's challenges.

Is wisdom and knowledge evident in your life? If not, during this week think of ways to incorporate both.

-GG