“And God said to Solomon, Because this was in your heart, and you have not asked riches, wealth, or honor, nor the life of your enemies, neither yet have asked long life; but have asked wisdom and knowledge for yourself, that you may judge my people, over whom I have made you king: Wisdom and knowledge is granted unto you; and I will give you riches, and wealth, and honor, such as none of the kings have had that have been before you, neither shall there any after you have the like”. (2 Chronicles 1:11-12)
If choosing between wisdom and riches, would you have chosen as King Solomon did? If so, would you have chosen without wavering? Noticeably, the wealthy are idolized in this earth, as money is the “be all to end all” for many. From making it rain to the bling-bling, every opportunity is a chance to floss on the masses. Whether legally or illegally obtained, those with money spend their time trying to keep or make more of it; while those who have no money, spend their time trying to get it. It’s a never-ending cycle of vanity, but where is wisdom? In this microwave generation where people want it all and they want it now, it’s not surprising that there is no focus on the things of God. We have been so preoccupied with laboring for temporal riches, that seeking godly wisdom is an afterthought.
“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God that gives to all men liberally, and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavers is like a wave of the sea driven, with the wind and tossed.” (James 1:5-6)
The Root of All Evil
I have often heard that “money” is the root of all evil. However, the Bible says, “For the love of money is the root of all evil”. That is a key distinction that should not be overlooked. Money is a medium of exchange that we use to buy goods and services in this earth. Money, at its core is neither good nor evil, but can be used for either purpose. Being blessed with money is not an evil as James 1:17 tells us, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above…”. Furthermore, the Father blesses us to be a blessing to others. It is when we lust after money and make it our sole purpose for existing, that we have a problem. Merely having money isn’t evil. It’s placing an inordinate value upon having money to the disregard of everything else, including our Creator, that is evil.
“But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root (origin/source) of all evil: which while some coveted (want/crave/desire) after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows” (1 Timothy 6:9-10)
You Cannot Buy Wisdom
We were all conditioned, as children, to chase material things not spiritual things. In my 20’s I had a 5-year and 10-year plan. Married with children, with multiple degrees under my belt and a ton of money in my bank account, was my ideal. Clearly, I knew nothing about wisdom. In fact, I thought I was seeking after wisdom by obtaining a Masters degree. Imagine my astonishment when I learned that, “the wisdom of this world, is foolishness with God” (1 Corinthians 3:19). I remember growing up and hearing that there are many “educated fools” in the world. I often wondered how that could be; however, in my 40’s it all makes sense. We can have an M.D./Ph.D., and all the alphabets behind our names, but without spiritual knowledge or wisdom, we’re fools! Contrary to popular belief, money cannot buy us wisdom for it is a gift from The Almighty.
“For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it” (Proverbs 8:11)
“How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver” (Proverbs 16:16)
Earthly Wisdom vs Godly Wisdom
There’s a difference between Godly wisdom and earthly wisdom. Godly wisdom is a gift from God, so it cannot be bought or sold. It is eternal, pure, perfect and reveals the spiritual. This wisdom is life and reveals God’s handiwork in all of His creation. Earthly wisdom is fleshly, temporal and often makes men foolish. It appeals only to our five senses and emotions, which can be manipulated and hides the spiritual, thus hiding The Creator in His creation. A prime example would be the theory of human evolution. We are told that we evolved from apes, which is complete nonsense and contradicts God’s Word, which says He formed man from the dust of the ground. When we perish, our flesh returns to dust; however, if man evolved from apes, there would be no apes in existence. It’s easy to see where the deception lies.
“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.” (James 3:17)
“For the Lord gives wisdom: out of his mouth comes knowledge and understanding. He lays up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly”(Provers 2:6-7).
“Thus says the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glories glory in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, says the LORD.” (Jeremiah 9:23-24)
Seeking After Godly Wisdom is a Must
It is important that we commit our lives to seeking after Godly wisdom. King Solomon recognized that wisdom was more precious than gold, silver or fine jewels. It took wisdom for him to understand that he could do nothing outside of God. Unfortunately, people today trust more in man, in their own strength, in their wealth, etc. than on God, thus they are devoid of wisdom. Wisdom makes us understand that life is a journey that we must all navigate to get from point A to Z. If we do not ask God to be our navigator, then we have chosen to embark on that journey directionless. We would be like ships tossed to and fro at the first sign of turbulence. In the end, King Solomon upon asking for wisdom received it and all the riches and honor that came along with it. Would you have chosen wisely?
“But seek you first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33)
“My son, let not them depart from your eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion: So shall they be life unto your soul, and grace to your neck. Then shalt you walk in your way safely, and your foot shall not stumble.” (Proverbs 3:21-23)
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all your getting get understanding.” (Proverbs 4:7)
“Through wisdom is a house built; and by understanding it is established” (Proverbs 24:3)
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