Where Can Wisdom Be Found?

Where can wisdom be found?

Through the centuries philosophers have asked that question, and attempted to define and redefine wisdom. Through various means they sought after true understanding and enlightenment; a mind and heart full of not just knowledge of facts, but discernment of the truth of the world around them, leading to peace, joy and contentment.

While you and I may not be philosophers pondering the great questions of the universe, we probably do some pondering over where we can find a little wisdom. We may not be looking to obtain wondrous enlightenment, but we would still like some wisdom for our day to day lives. Our questions of what job to take, how to handle certain tense situations and relationships, whether or not we should date that guy or go to that college or move out of our parents’ house could use some wise answers… answers that will lead us to peace, joy and contentment.

​In Job 28, we find this question of wisdom asked, and also answered:

“Where can wisdom be found? Where does understanding dwell?
“No mortal comprehends its worth; it cannot be found in the land of the living. The deep says, ‘It is not in me’; the sea says, ‘It is not with me.’
“It cannot be bought with the finest gold, nor can its price be weighed out in silver. It cannot be bought with the gold of Ophir, with precious onyx or lapis lazuli. Neither gold nor crystal can compare with it, nor can it be had for jewels of gold. Coral and jasper are not worthy of mention; the price of wisdom is beyond rubies. The topaz of Cush cannot compare with it; it cannot be bought with pure gold.
“Where then does wisdom come from? Where does understanding dwell?
“It is hidden from the eyes of every living thing, concealed even from the birds in the sky. Destruction and Death say, ‘Only a rumor of it has reached our ears.’
"God understands the way to it and He alone knows where it dwells, for He views the ends of the earth and sees everything under the heavens. When He established the force of the wind and measured out the waters, when He made a decree for the rain and a path for the thunderstorm, then He looked at wisdom and appraised it; He confirmed it and tested it. And He said to the human race, ‘The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding.’   Job 28:12-28

In this passage, we see the value of wisdom. It is beyond the price of any precious gem or stone. No amount of treasure can compare with the value of wisdom. It cannot be bought, because nothing can measure up to its worth.

​In the verses preceding this passage, the lengths people go to discover silver or gold is described. The work and effort and sacrifice they put into unearthing hidden treasure. And here wisdom is being described as an even greater treasure. No wonder so many have asked Where can wisdom be found? For wisdom is something to be desired and sought after.

Wisdom is found in fearing the Lord. Not a terrified, frightful fear, but a reverent awe. This type of fear causes us to trust in the Lord as our Savior and Father, and submit to His ways as our Sovereign King.

The book of Proverbs is known as the Book of Wisdom. In fact, Proverbs opens with these words: 

“The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: for gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insight; for receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fair; for giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young - let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance - for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”   Proverbs 1:1-7

Proverbs 3 calls us to seek wisdom, and speaks of the blessing wisdom brings:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and he will make your paths straight.
“Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her; those who hold her fast will be blessed.
“My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion; they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble. When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, for the Lord will be at your side and will keep your foot from being snared.”   Proverbs 3:5, 13-18, 21-26

As followers of Christ, we are to desire and seek after wisdom. Wisdom is not simply knowledge of what is right, but acting in righteousness. It is not only making good decisions, but godly decisions, those aligned with God’s character and will, even when they seem contrary to common sense and human logic.  

In Jams 1:5 we are promised, “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.” 

When we seek God’s will in our lives, He gives us the wisdom needed for our day to day situations and questions. And when we follow His wisdom, we find real peace, joy, and contentment in Him.

Later in James, we find a description of the wisdom God gives:

“The wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.”   James 3:17

We can use this description to help us in discerning if our decisions and actions are indeed wise. Are they pure not only in action but also in attitude and motive? Are they peace-loving even in the midst of stress and conflict? Are they considerate of others and their needs? Are they submissive to God’s will and aligned with His Word? Are they full of mercy and forgiveness rather than vengeance and grudges? Are they allowing us to bear the fruit of the Spirit? (Galatians 5:22-23) Are they just, fair, truthful, and genuine, rather than prejudiced and deceitful?

​Wisdom begins with fear of the Lord, and grows as we grow in relationship with Him. We should never stop seeking the wisdom that comes from heaven, trusting God and submitting daily to Him who gives generously such a treasure.

The post Where Can Wisdom Be Found? first appeared on The Overflowing
All Scripture taken from the NIV, copyright 2011