Do you see yourself as intelligent? Perceptive? Or feel you use good discretion? Think of how you’ve handled a recent situation that was challenging. Perhaps you wouldn’t change a thing. But most of us learn through trials, and that takes time.
There are a variety of terms we interchange with the word “wisdom.” Regardless of the terms, it’s important to identify ways to gain wisdom in all parts of your life.
In this article, we look at points that help with perspective for wisdom but also how to incorporate the right outlook.
With greater understanding of wisdom, you’ll lean into action steps that create a different mindset and give you more confidence. It takes practice, but first we need to address the question, “What is wisdom?”
In This Article
Two Types of Wisdom
It’s important to outline the two types of wisdom. These are broad categories that encompass daily situations and areas of life. But they are further explained when you recognize methods for achieving growth.
Worldly Wisdom
You’ve heard the word “wisdom” mentioned many times at school, work, and even with friends or family. In most cases, the term is assumed to have its own parameters.
Worldly wisdom is based on points such as knowledge, experience, good judgement, knowing the right steps, common sense, or maybe meeting a goal. Once you’ve gained understanding of certain aspects, it’s assumed that you must have wisdom since you “put in the time.”
Worldly wisdom has a necessity of distinguished thought and behavior which often means “older and wiser.” If you’ve paid your dues, and made continued effort, you’re often deemed wise concerning a particular subject.
Sometimes, it’s even assumed you’re wiser simply by sticking around a certain setting or task. Although repetition and time spent should be recognized, they don’t necessarily point to increased character and wisdom.
You might encounter an employee or family member that’s “been around the block” but may have no intention of teaching others or learning extra information. Doing the bare minimum doesn’t create wisdom.
Biblical Wisdom
Biblical wisdom is something entirely different. While it’s good to be versed in subjects and performance, this type of wisdom isn’t based on “how” you’ve accomplished something or spent time.
This type of wisdom is gained by realizing that you’re a part of something larger and that you rely on faith to increase your wisdom. Counting days, weeks, months, and years don’t create wisdom in this realm. Instead, gaining spiritual insight and learning more about yourself and what’s around you encourage Biblical wisdom.
This realm shows that reliance on God and improving faith gives us the foundation we need to gain wisdom in all areas of life. As we lean in, we’re shown parts of the whole when the time is right. Instead of running through our days making abrupt decisions, it requires growing in relationship and taking intentional steps.
Part of gaining wisdom is wondering if you’re taking matters into your own hands rather than trusting and having faith?
Differences Between the 2 Types of Wisdom
There are at least four important differences in these two types of wisdom that are worth highlighting.
Difference #1
When considering worldly wisdom, you’re only able to gain based on what you already know and have experienced. As mentioned, it takes time and trials in a certain realm.
But, with Biblical wisdom, we’re allowed room for growth within all areas even where we haven’t taken particular steps. It’s based on self-growth and connection spiritually which encourage depth and understanding rather than only experience.
Difference #2
Worldly wisdom judges by goals met and accomplishments seen on paper. You can even be deemed wise by having common sense with decisions.
On the other hand, Biblical wisdom is ongoing, and we stay hungry for growth that we don’t even realize is happening. It certainly goes beyond common sense and is based on a larger concept. We’re granted wisdom for our purpose and other blessings and giftings are present to support it.
Difference #3
A third difference between the two types of wisdom is the idea that worldly wisdom is based on good judgement and correct choices. If someone makes a mistake, especially a big one, they easily lose status. They’re seen as less dependable or not reliable.
On the contrary, Biblical wisdom comes with the understanding that we’re all fallen. We all make mistakes and shouldn’t judge each other since we’re in the same boat. Sin is expected, and it doesn’t keep us from being granted wisdom by God. In fact, sometimes our past issues make us more relatable, and we’re placed in areas of influence for that reason.
Difference #4
The final difference we’ll highlight is that worldly wisdom comes to those we decide are deserving. As was previously established, time spent, knowledge, efforts, and good works deem this type of wisdom. However, none of us are truly deserving of what we’re given.
Biblical wisdom says we’re all in a fallen world, but we each have something great to contribute. Willingness goes a long way, even if you’re not the most versed in every area including how to pray. The Bible tells us that we can ask for wisdom when it’s needed.
James 1:5 says, “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” (NIV). It goes on to explain that asking should be with faith and not filled with doubt.
As we continue to address gaining wisdom in all parts of life, we’ll unpack a few steps that help you intentionally increase Biblical wisdom.
Steps to Gaining Biblical Wisdom
The idea behind the next four steps is that they are progressive for gaining wisdom. One of the best ways to increase is by studying the Word.
Scripture is full of profound nuggets that help you grow in more ways than you thought possible. Ask for motivation and hunger for God’s Word, and He will grant it.
Knowledge
Knowledge is having information and being able to recall and repeat it based on something you’ve learned or are seeking to know. This could be true for Bible verses, training for your job, ideas in school, and any area in your sphere.
This level is a foundation for what’s to follow. If you don’t first know something, it’s difficult to gain deeper understanding of it. However, this doesn’t only pertain to memorization. Knowledge is also realizing where to find the information you need. All these steps are part of eventually gaining wisdom.
Understanding
This is the next step in deeper growth. Understanding involves gaining realization of what you’re looking at or learning. Or giving it more than just a glance. This level involves deciphering information and allowing it to “sink in.”
Understanding also involves interpreting information rather than simply recalling or finding it. More thought is involved, along with greater faith, to find deeper meaning.
Revelation
Revelation is often where spiritual connections begin to create greater steps toward wisdom. This category includes a level of faith for gaining information, and understanding, in the right place and at the correct time.
Each of us are on a different journey. Through God’s Word and a solid relationship with Him, we’re able to gain revelation. It entails hearing and seeing things through a different lens.
Faith promotes creation of Biblical wisdom rather than determining our own steps and understanding.
Don’t hesitate to ask for revelation. Once you begin to see and hear things on a deeper level, you’ll gain confidence that you’re in the right place. You can increase revelation by staying more connected and intentional when studying the Word.
Wisdom
Wisdom is the final step after achieving knowledge, understanding, and revelation. At this point, there’s a deeper relationship and revelation has created excitement and hunger for the progression of wisdom. This level involves amazing insight and the ability to teach others and share revelations that have been presented.
With more faith and willingness, you’ll realize that revelation and wisdom are intertwined. As you intentionally lean into a relationship with God’s, you will experience a different level of both. Revelation will allow growth beyond understanding, and wisdom creates more opportunities for sharing good news.
God grants wisdom about a variety of topics at different levels depending on purpose. Our willingness and hunger are the fuel for gaining wisdom in all parts of life.
Beware of Temptations
Temptations that pull you away usually involve some of the greatest lessons. Being interrupted might mean you’re on the right track and a spiritual threat to the enemy.
Although you’ll face some tough lessons, don’t be foolish in assuming a certain reaction when these arise. This shows immaturity and can be an issue with follow through for sound steps. It’s why they’re considered temptations.
Guard your heart and mind and ask for continued strength against schemes. Remember that we’re fallen. Stand guard daily and protect yourself to maintain your integrity and increase your character.
Final Thoughts About Gaining Wisdom
It’s often assumed that gaining wisdom comes from committed time to a specific topic and takes years to accomplish. That’s how the world defines wisdom. However, Biblical wisdom can be granted much more quickly when we’re in alignment to correct steps.
Willingness and hunger—along with an intentional relationship with God—help build spiritual wisdom. When we’re in tune to the idea that our lives are purposeful, it’s easy to realize that gaining wisdom is important.
Praying and studying the Word help create great opportunities for growth and receiving revelation and wisdom.