Knowledge may fill our minds and puff up our pride, but wisdom can save relationships, careers, and lives. It’s using what we’ve learned or know to make decisions, and though bookstores are filled with titles claiming to offer the perfect guidance for practically any situation, only the Bible can make good on that promise.
Colossians 2:2b-3 says we look to “Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and 
knowledge” (ESV). As we grow closer to Jesus, our spiritual understanding increases. Our thoughts and perspectives change, and because thoughts determine behavior, we began to act as He did—wisely.
Scripture invites us to seek God’s guidance, especially during difficult times. James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him” (ESV).
This summer, I served on a South Dakota reservation teaching Vacation Bible School. One of my favorite days came when a friend introduced the kids to the parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders from Matthew 7:24-27. You may know the story. The wise man set his house on a rock, cutting into it deeply and securing a strong foundation. But the foolish man built on sand, leaving his foundation weak and vulnerable.
It’s as if Jesus is saying, “Don’t be foolish! I’ve given you everything you need to stand strong and secure.”
God’s wisdom can help us navigate the crazy twists and turns of life.
But how?
When we apply what we learn from Scripture to our lives, that knowledge becomes wisdom.
The world tells us to read a self-help or leadership book, attend a seminar, or return to school. And these may be good things, but what if we do all this and are still without answers? What if tragedy comes and we feel lost and confused?
Or, consider the converse. What if we’ve filled our hearts and minds with the truths of God and He uses it, in the middle of our pain, to comfort, guide, and strengthen us? What if He whispers those truths to our heart as we sleep, like we read in Psalm 16:7.
If we build our security on things of this lifetime, sadly, be like the builder who built on the sand and our foundation will crumble. It can’t stand against the storm of life. But if our foundation is built on Jesus and His Word, we’ll be like the wise builder who built on the rock. Storms will come, we may be bruised up, but we will stand firm and not be destroyed.
Teaching those children at Pine Ridge about wisdom reminded me of my own need to invest greatly into reading, learning, studying, memorizing, and meditating on His Word. I don’t want to be caught off guard and make choices based on my limited knowledge. I want His never-changing wisdom to guide me.
Let us ask Jesus for wisdom today. And then immerse ourselves in Scripture, so He can open up our minds to His way, not the world’s.
Did this devotion encourage you?
If so, make sure to check out our Bible reading plan available now on the YouVersion app! You can find 
it HERE! And make sure to grab a copy of our 90-day devotional, Drawing Near. You can find that HERE. And check out our FREE Bible study, Becoming His Princess, HERE.
