How much better to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.
Proverbs 16:161 Corinthians 3:19-20 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God, since it is written, He catches the wise in their craftiness; and again, “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile.”
Romans 1:21 For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened.
Wisdom (understanding, insight, perception, discernment, judgment, soundness, knowledge) – the soundness of an action or decision with regard to the application of experience, knowledge, and good judgment
There is wisdom of the world which does not include it’s foundation in God, and there is Godly wisdom which is the foundation of all knowledge and understanding. How are we to know the difference?
All talents mankind has displayed, sciences, medicine, sports, trades, inventions, manufacturing techniques, farming, music, etc…. are from God. Unfortunately, they are not always used to honor and glorify Him. Man always seems to find a way to look at these gifts from God and claim them as their own. They want the glory, honor, and praise. They hoard more power and lust after its worldly recognition. They look at what they have done and bask in it. They seek praise and honor for what they consider their own talent(s) and their accomplishment(s).
As I write this and look at how I have looked at some of my projects or accomplishments and how I have taken the honor and praise without giving or recognizing it was because of God’s gift (talent) to me. It is so easy to do. I am convicted of the very thing I am thinking about, how those without Christ in their lives use their talents and wisdom and give no credit, honor, glory, and praise to God for them.
I think it would be good to start each day with a thankful prayer:
Thank you God for all the talents and experience you have given to me. Let me not think they were of my own understanding and knowledge. Press this thought deep into my heart and mind so that in all thoughts, words, and actions I give honor and glory to Jesus. Give me discernment to see when I am not. Amen.
