This men's devotional is specifically written to encourage men to become more like Jesus. Boyd Bailey unpacks particular Bible verses, inviting men to take just a few minutes each day to deepen their relationship with God.

Wisdom Seekers

The whole world sought audience with Solomon to hear the wisdom God had put in his heart.

1 Kings 10:24 NIV

Wisdom is a cherished commodity. It is insight from the Lord, so its value is enormous. Because wisdom must be sought and asked for, we pursue it by attending church, listening to good Bible teaching, and engaging with older mentors. Wisdom doesn’t come naturally; it’s a gift from God (Proverbs 2:6). For all of these reasons, wisdom is precious. People are drawn to wisdom because it is attractive and winsome. It is also a gift that protects us from decisions that could haunt us for a lifetime and a weapon God wields on behalf of His warriors. Wisdom cuts through confusion and replaces it with clarity.

The wise, however, are not immune to sin. A wise man or woman still needs accountability, maybe more so. Indeed, the wise are susceptible to pride (Jeremiah 9:23). A wise heart intermingled with pride thinks it can rise above the rules. It can be subtle at first, but inner convictions begin to rot like a termite-infested foundation. If pride is not kept in check, it will convert wisdom into cockiness. Sad is the state of a once-wise leader who allowed pride to water down his fear of God. Wisdom is God’s gift to carry out His kingdom initiatives. If spent on oneself, it becomes destructive.

So seek out truly wise people whose top priority is God. Search for wisdom in the Bible, books, people, circumstances, film, life experiences, and creation. Once you find it, don’t take it for granted. Thank God for wise outcomes. Be wise for His glory and for His purposes. Allow wisdom to humble you, rather than give you a sense of superiority. We are all seekers of God’s wisdom. We will seek it until we get to heaven.

Wisdom is active and alive, and always in need of a fresh infusion from God. Use prayer as a bridge to the wisdom of God. Ask Him often for His perspective and His heart on the matter in front of you (James 1:5). Allow wisdom to draw you closer to your heavenly Father in worship and dependence on Him.

Finally, be a generous dispenser of wisdom to others. Make time for people to get to know your heart and understand the life-lessons through which God has forged your faith (1 Kings 4:34). We all have wisdom we can offer to others. Carve out time just to listen to another’s travails. Their “top of mind” issues need attention. Be available to listen patiently with understanding, and then, in humility, offer options for their consideration. Wisdom is gentle. It gives answers in a spirit of grace, as a fellow wisdom-seeker.

Seek wisdom and give wisdom always motivated by humble submission to God