Wisdom in the New Year

 Proverbs 8:11 "“For wisdom is better than jewels;  And all desirable things cannot compare with her."

          Is having or seeking 'wisdom', a part of your New Year's resolutions?  Wisdom is the ability to discern or judge what is true or right.  You can have knowledge--information gained, without wisdom.  Knowledge can be knowing about something, whereas wisdom is knowing it's proper usage.

          Wisdom is a gift from God.  James 1:5  "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him."  "God blesses us with wisdom in order for us to glorify Him and use the knowledge we have of Him." [gotquestions.org]

           We learn of  'the fear of the Lord being the beginning of knowledge' in the book of Proverbs and that 'fools despise wisdom and instruction'.  " To fear the Lord is to start on the path to knowledge, and God can then begin to provide us with wisdom through Christ, who the Bible says is wisdom itself.  It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption”  [gotquestions.org]   1 Corinthians 1:30  " And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption,"

          " Wisdom is the fitting application of knowledge. Knowledge memorizes the Ten Commandments; wisdom obeys them. Knowledge learns of God; wisdom loves Him."

           Wisdom changes the course of your life, from the world's destructive path to Jesus' freedom giving path.  Psalms 16:11  "You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever."

6 Characteristics of a Wisdom Driven Life

1] Joy-- the gladness you have from knowing God has given you meaning and purpose in your life.

2] Confidence-- the strength you have from knowing God is with you and by your side at all times.

3] Worth-- the value you have by knowing God's love for you is everlasting and unconditional, as your Lord and Savior.

4] Peace-- the serenity that comes from knowing God is working all things out for your good, as a believer in Jesus Christ.

5] Maturity-- based on the Lord's transformational work of forgiveness, renewal, and growth.

6]Blessing-- God pours out all of his grace and goodness into your life.