Are You Wise or Foolish?
Wisdom is one of the most valuable gifts a believer can seek, yet many overlook its importance. The Bible presents wisdom as a treasure greater than gold and silver (Proverbs 16:16). But what exactly is godly wisdom? How does it differ from worldly wisdom? What happens when we reject wisdom? Today, we will explore the Hebrew and Greek definitions of wisdom, the consequences of rejecting wisdom, the difference between worldly and godly wisdom, the warnings wisdom gives, the traits of a fool versus a wise person, and the benefits of seeking godly wisdom and fearing the Lord.
The Hebrew and Greek Definitions of Wisdom
Understanding wisdom begins with looking at the original biblical languages. The Old Testament was written primarily in Hebrew, while the New Testament was written in Greek.
- Hebrew Word for Wisdom: The primary Hebrew word for wisdom is “Chokmah” (חכמה), which means skill, prudence, shrewdness, or sound judgment. It is often used to describe the wisdom of artisans (Exodus 31:3), the wisdom of governing (1 Kings 3:28), and the wisdom that comes from fearing the Lord (Proverbs 9:10).
- Greek Word for Wisdom: In the New Testament, the Greek word for wisdom is “Sophia” (σοφία), meaning insight, intelligence, or supreme knowledge. Sophia refers to both human wisdom and divine wisdom, but biblical wisdom always ties back to God’s truth (James 3:17).
Both words emphasize that wisdom is not just knowledge but the correct application of knowledge—living in a way that aligns with God’s truth.
Watch a deep analysis on godly wisdom from the book of Proverbs
The Consequences of Rejecting Wisdom (Proverbs References)
Rejecting wisdom has severe consequences, and the book of Proverbs makes this very clear.
- Destruction Comes to Those Who Reject Wisdom – Proverbs 1:24-27 warns:
“Because I have called and you refused, I have stretched out my hand and no one regarded, because you disdained all my counsel, and would have none of my rebuke, I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your terror comes.”
Those who reject wisdom will face calamity and destruction because they have ignored God’s guidance. - A Fool Despises Instruction – Proverbs 15:5 says:
“A fool despises his father’s instruction, but he who receives correction is prudent.”
Wisdom requires humility. Those who refuse correction and instruction are foolish and set themselves up for failure. - Rejecting Wisdom Leads to Death – Proverbs 8:36 states:
“But he who sins against me wrongs his own soul; all those who hate me love death.”
Rejecting wisdom isn’t just about missing out on knowledge—it leads to destruction and death, both spiritually and, in many cases, physically.
The Difference Between Worldly Wisdom and Godly Wisdom
There are two kinds of wisdom: worldly wisdom and godly wisdom. The Bible highlights the stark contrast between them:
Worldly Wisdom
- Rooted in human logic, experience, and philosophy.
- Often promotes selfish ambition, deception, and arrogance.
- Limited and ultimately leads to destruction (1 Corinthians 3:19).
- James 3:15 calls it “earthly, unspiritual, and demonic.”
Godly Wisdom
- Comes directly from God (James 1:5).
- Leads to peace, righteousness, and eternal life.
- Produces humility, purity, and good fruits (James 3:17).
- Found through the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10).
Many people seek success through worldly wisdom, but only godly wisdom leads to true fulfillment, peace, and eternal rewards.
The Red Flags Wisdom Gives
Wisdom serves as a warning system for believers. It raises red flags to keep us from falling into sin and destruction. Here are a few signs wisdom gives:
- The Company You Keep – Proverbs 13:20 warns:
“He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.”
If your closest relationships encourage sin, it’s a red flag that wisdom is warning you to change your circle. - Ignoring Wise Counsel – Proverbs 11:14 says:
“Where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.”
If you consistently reject godly advice, you may be heading toward destruction. - Pride Before a Fall – Proverbs 16:18 states:
“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”
If pride is leading your decisions, wisdom is warning you that a downfall is near. Remember GOD ALWAYS RESISTS THE PROUD!
The Difference Between a Fool and a Wise Person
Proverbs clearly defines the differences between a fool and a wise person:
- A Wise Person: Seeks counsel, fears the Lord, walks in integrity, listens before speaking, and values correction.
- A Fool: Rejects correction, is quick to anger, speaks without thinking, trusts in himself, and despises wisdom.
Proverbs 12:15 states:
“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he who heeds counsel is wise.”
The Definition and Qualities of a Fool (Proverbs)
The book of Proverbs describes a fool in various ways:
- Rejects Knowledge – Proverbs 1:7
- Speaks Without Thinking – Proverbs 18:2
- Quick to Anger – Proverbs 14:16-17
- Trusts in Himself – Proverbs 28:26
- Despises Correction – Proverbs 15:5
Fools operate in pride and self-reliance, while the wise depend on the obedience of God’s word (the bible).
The Benefits of Seeking Godly Wisdom
- Guidance and Direction – Proverbs 3:5-6
- Long Life and Peace – Proverbs 3:16-17
- Protection from Evil – Proverbs 2:10-12
- Success and Favor – Proverbs 8:35
Seeking godly wisdom brings countless blessings. Proverbs 3:13 states, “Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding.” Wisdom provides direction, discernment, and divine protection. Those who seek godly wisdom experience peace, prosperity, and a deeper relationship with God. Proverbs 2:6 says, “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” When we seek godly wisdom, we avoid costly mistakes, strengthen our faith, and cultivate a heart that aligns with God’s purpose. Walking in wisdom also allows us to make decisions that honor God and lead to lasting success.
The Benefits of the Fear of the Lord
The fear of the Lord is foundational to wisdom (Proverbs 9:10). It brings:
- A Hatred for Evil – Proverbs 8:13
- A Strong Foundation for Life – Proverbs 10:27
- Confidence and Security – Proverbs 14:26
- Blessings and Honor – Proverbs 22:4
The fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom and brings many rewards. Proverbs 9:10 declares, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Fearing the Lord means having reverence, awe, and deep respect for God. This leads to spiritual stability, divine guidance, and protection from sin. Proverbs 10:27 says, “The fear of the Lord prolongs days, but the years of the wicked will be shortened.” Those who fear the Lord receive His blessings, walk in righteousness, and develop a heart that pleases Him. Embracing the fear of the Lord helps believers grow in holiness and experience true fulfillment in life.
Conclusion
True wisdom is a gift from God, available to those who seek Him. The book of Proverbs makes it clear that rejecting wisdom leads to destruction, while embracing it leads to life, protection, and success. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and those who walk in godly wisdom will experience lasting blessings.
Are you walking in wisdom today? If not, ask God, who gives generously to all who seek Him (James 1:5). Choose today to live not by worldly wisdom, but by the eternal, life-giving wisdom of God.