The Wise – Living the Word

Proverbs 16:20-23 He that handles a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusts in the LORD, happy is he. The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increases learning. Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that has it: but the instruction of fools is folly. The heart of the wise teaches his mouth, and adds learning to his lips.

‘He that handles a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusts in the LORD, happy is he.’ Eight fundamental principles of life: Eight fundamental principles of life: Approach every situation with wisdom and discernment (16:20). Place your trust fully in the Lord. Cultivate wisdom and prudence in your decisions (16:21). Continually pursue knowledge and understanding. Show compassion and insight in dealing with others (16:22). Reject foolishness and remain teachable and open to learning. Let your words always reflect wisdom and thoughtfulness (16:23). Speak with kindness and grace, bringing encouragement to others (16:24).

‘Heart of the wise’ Five examples of wise hearts: [1] Eleazar, as Abraham’s servant, showed faithfulness, prayerfulness, and discernment in selecting a wife for Isaac. His words and actions reflected a heart guided by God and committed to fulfilling his master’s will (Gen. 24:34-49). [2] Jacob spoke with a deep perspective on the hardships of life, recognising both struggle and divine providence. His journey illustrates how wisdom can be shaped through time, trials, and the hand of God (Gen. 47:9). [3] Jesus Christ silenced critics with truth and amazed teachers with understanding. His life reveals perfect insight, discernment, and compassion (Matt. 22:46; Luke 2:40-52). [4] Peter, once impulsive, grew into a bold yet humble leader. In Acts 3, he wisely deflected glory from himself and pointed people to Christ. His life shows how the Spirit of God transforms and matures the heart (Acts 3:12). [5] Paul spoke with clarity, depth, and conviction. Whether before Jews or Gentiles, kings or commoners, he presented the truth with boldness and love. His wise heart was marked by deep knowledge of Scripture and personal testimony of grace (Acts 13:16-21; 14:17; 17:28; 24:25; 26:2-27; 1Tim. 1:12-16).

The wise heart seeks not merely knowledge but alignment with God’s will. Let us cultivate wisdom, speak with grace, and walk in humble reliance on the Lord, knowing that wisdom is more precious than gold and leads to life (3:13-18).

1Corinthians 3:18-23 Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seems to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He takes the wise in their own craftiness. And again, The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain. Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours; Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours; And you are Christ’s; and Christ is God’s.

‘If any man among you seems to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.’ This perhaps refers to some man in the congregation who wished to have pre-eminence.

‘He takes the wise in their own craftiness’ – Quoted from Job 5:13. The wisdom of the world is a craft, or subtle trade, which people carry on with others to benefit themselves.

‘The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.’ Quoted from Psalm 94:11. The wise of the world is always full of schemes and plans for earthly gain, all of which are empty and vain.

Eight characteristics of false wisdom: Bitter envying and strife in the heart (Jas. 3:14, 16). Glory in profession (Jas. 3:14). Earthly, having this life only in view and sensual, living only to satisfy the animal appetites. Devilish, inspired by demons (Jas. 3:15). Confusion and every evil work (Jas. 3:16).

‘Let no man glory in men’ – let no Christian join any human party or take up the cause of any man who divides the body of Christ (Rom. 16:17). Be alert for those who cause divisions and have no religious fellowship with them that the flock may be protected (Php. 3:17).

‘All are yours’ – the idea is that God will cause all things to work together for good to those who love Him, whether they be the world system, life or death, providence now and hereafter, or any other things (Rom. 8:28). While all things are working, God’s providence is working on behalf of those who love God and who walk obediently according to His purpose.