Wisdom for Life
Wisdom is a key aspect of maturity. We often think of growing into maturity as we get older and gain more knowledge, but growing mature in wisdom transcends age. Wisdom grows when we learn to apply our knowledge to everyday choices and situations.
James, the brother of Jesus and writer of the book of James, talks about the process of growing in spiritual maturity in James 1:1-5. He tells us that anybody who seeks wisdom should simply ask God for it, and God will give it generously to anyone who asks.
Growing in spiritual wisdom happens when we use our knowledge of God, the world, and ourselves, to make right decisions about how we should act, live, and talk as Christians. It’s as we get to know God better that we grow in His wisdom and are equipped with the knowledge we need to live abundant lives that honor Him. In this way, wisdom comes from our relationship with God.
Nobody needs to lack wisdom because God offers it freely through a relationship with Him. As we seek Him and His wisdom, He gives us opportunities to practice it and grow in our trust in Him. And as we trust Him with our choices, we begin to see wisdom flourish in our lives.
So what will you do to cultivate wisdom in your life? The first step is to ask God for help. When you humbly come to God and admits your need for Him, He will generously give you all the wisdom you need.
How to Build Strong Character
Paul, the author of the letter to the Romans, frequently encouraged the believers in Rome amidst the persecution and adversity they were experiencing. The first half of Paul’s letter corrects some of their thinking, while the second half is focused on their character and actions.
In Romans 12, Paul is encouraging the believers to let love be the primary motivation for everything they do. When love is the foundation of who they are, then God can renew and transform every area of life. When they allow God to transform their character, that's when they're able to be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.
Christians have a unique hope—we know that Jesus is victorious over evil and will one day return to make everything right. This means that we can have hope in the midst of suffering or difficult times.
Paul knew that affliction produces steadfast character within us. When we choose to endure through suffering, Jesus forms strength and ...