Knowledge vs Wisdom
Feb 22, 2022 | by Joel Jacobs
Unfortunately, many confuse having “knowledge” as having “wisdom.” These two things are not the same, BUT they do work together. Knowledge centers around knowing facts and information. However, wisdom is the application of knowledge. By itself, knowledge is basically useless. It’s not until we actually apply the knowledge CORRECTLY (key word) that it can become wisdom. Learning our ABC’s and how to count to 10 is the foundation of our knowledge, but wisdom is taking those letters and forming them into words and language or using numbers to create equations and bring solutions. For two hundred years many people had knowledge of Newton’s laws of physics, but it wasn’t until the Wright brothers correctly applied that knowledge that the ability for man-made flight became possible. Now, that’s just looking at those two concepts from a natural standpoint, but it also applies to the spiritual.
Biblical wisdom is the Hebrew word chokmah (khok-maw). Chokmah is an actual attribute of God. It was His wisdom that brought forth all creation. Take the human eye, for example. It’s complex design and how it works to bring us vision and sight is just one small revelation of the depths of God’s creative wisdom. I never had much of an interest in science until I started looking at it from the perspective that it’s a way for God to graciously show us a glimpse of his infinite wisdom. Now, here’s something really awesome. God loves us so much, He gives us HIS wisdom! That ought to make you shout right as you’re reading this! You might be wondering how we get His wisdom. Simple, we ASK!
James 1:5 says “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ASK of God, that gives to ALL liberally (or generously), and upbraideth not (meaning God won’t find fault in you or scold you for asking); and it SHALL be given him.” Proverbs 2:6 says “For the Lord GIVES wisdom; from his mouth comes knowledge AND understanding (emphasis mine).” King Solomon wrote that proverb because he was living proof! In 1st Kings chapter 3, it tells us God appeared to Solomon in a dream and said “Ask what I shall give thee.” Solomon gave a very humble response. In verse 7 Solomon says “you have made thy servant king...and I am but a little child: I know not how to go out or come in.” Solomon admits that he is young and naïve, and he recognizes the weight and importance of being king of God’s people. So in verse 9 Solomon asks “Give therefore thy servant an UNDERSTANDING heart to judge thy people, that I may DISCERN between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy great a people.” Verse 10 in the Amplified says “It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this..” and verse 12 God responds “Behold, I have done as you asked.” Did you see all that? Not only does God “upbraideth not” when we ask for wisdom, He is PLEASED when we do! Glory to God!
Knowledge is great. Being able to recite bible verses chapter and verse is great! However, you can recite the Bible from memory cover to cover, but without God given understanding (Chokmah- Wisdom) you are just “sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal.”
Friends, whatever you are facing or dealing with, be encouraged that your answer is attainable. The knowledge for what you are seeking is given to us in His Word. Once you have the knowledge, Holy Spirit will impart the wisdom in how to apply that knowledge and walk it out in every area of your life. All you have to do is ask, then be quiet and listen.