Living in Increase (Part 1) - Increase in Understandingნიმუში

The Application of Wisdom

Over this week, we’ve learned about the source, foundation, and gift of wisdom. We’ve learned to ask for it, and today, we will discuss how to apply it. Like any good gift, it is possible to have wisdom without using it. Like a gift can remain unopened on a shelf, so can wisdom remain unused in us; therefore, once we receive wisdom from God, we must put it to use and apply it to our lives!

Here are a few ways the Bible says we can apply wisdom:

• Making the most of every opportunity (Ephesians 5:15-16; Colossians 4:5-6)
• Make peace with others (James 3:17)
• Be considerate of others (James 3:17)
• Submit to God (James 3:17)
• Be full of mercy and good fruit (James 3:17)
• Don’t dwell on the past (Ecclesiastes 7:10)
• Take advice (Proverbs 3:10)
• Do everything with humility (James 3:13)
• Number your days (Psalm 90:2)
• Accept commands (Proverbs 10:8)
• Hold your tongue (Proverbs 17:28)
• Find wise friends (Proverbs 13:20)
• Remain calm (Proverbs 29:11)

Overall, one can sum up these applications of wisdom in one verse:

“Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock.” - Matthew 7:24 NLT

If the list above seems daunting, don’t be dismayed! If we want to apply wisdom, we must listen to the teachings of Jesus and follow Him! These teachings of wisdom and understanding are found throughout the Bible. As you study God’s Word and continue to increase in understanding, you can apply the wisdom God gives!

Emily N. Green

Action Step: Proverbs 13:20 says, “Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.” Take a step to “walk with the wise” today and reach out to someone whose faith you admire. Ask them to get lunch or coffee, and come with a list of questions to ask them.