Article by Dazia Biggs
Wisdom in action means putting good judgment into practice. It’s not just about knowing what is right but doing it. Wise actions bring positive outcomes for yourself and others, even in difficult situations.
For example, wisdom in action can be seen in solving problems calmly and thoughtfully. Instead of reacting impulsively, a wise person considers the consequences, seeks advice when needed, and chooses the best solution. This might involve resolving a conflict peacefully or managing finances responsibly.
Wise actions also involve kindness and fairness. Treating others with respect, helping those in need, and standing up for what is right are all expressions of wisdom. Moreover, wisdom in action includes managing time and resources effectively, setting goals, and staying focused on priorities. It also involves learning from mistakes and taking care of your physical and emotional well-being. In essence, wisdom in action is about living thoughtfully and purposefully. It creates a life of balance, fulfilment, and positive impact.
What Is Wisdom?
The capacity to make deliberate decisions that result in favourable consequences is known as wisdom. It focuses on employing understanding and good judgement in daily life, going beyond mere information. Wise individuals consider the long-term consequences of their actions, choosing what is right and beneficial. Qualities like patience, humility, and kindness are hallmarks of wisdom. Those who live wisely learn from experience, listen to others, and seek understanding before making decisions. Wisdom helps us overcome challenges, build strong relationships, and live with purpose. It is a guide to making choices that lead to true fulfilment and happiness.
Biblical View of Wisdom
The Bible describes wisdom as the ability to apply God’s truth to our decisions and actions. It emphasizes living according to God’s will rather than merely accumulating knowledge. Proverbs 4:7 says, "The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding." True wisdom comes from God and is essential for navigating life’s challenges. By studying Biblical stories like those of Daniel and Ruth, we learn that wisdom involves trusting God, making righteous decisions, and walking humbly. These examples show how wisdom can guide us in relationships, challenges, and daily choices.
Wisdom in a Foreign Land Daniel’s Commitment to God
Daniel, a captive in Babylon, demonstrated wisdom by staying faithful to God despite cultural pressures. When ordered to eat the king’s food, which violated God’s laws, Daniel wisely proposed a test to eat only vegetables and water. His obedience resulted in better health, showing that wisdom involves making choices that honour God, even when it’s challenging (Daniel 1:8-16).
Daniel’s Interpretation of Dreams
When King Nebuchadnezzar had a dream no one could interpret, Daniel sought God’s wisdom through prayer. God revealed the dream’s meaning, and Daniel humbly praised Him, saying, "He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning" (Daniel 2:21). Daniel’s interpretation impressed the king, earning him a favour and demonstrating that wisdom requires humility and reliance on God (Daniel 2:47-49).
Daniel’s Courage and Wisdom
Despite a law banning prayer to God, Daniel continued to pray openly. He was thrown into a den of lions but was miraculously saved due to his unwavering faith. This teaches us that wisdom involves courage, faith, and standing firm in what is right (Daniel 6:10-23).
Wisdom in Loyalty and Faithfulness Ruth’s Decision to Stay with Naomi
Ruth, a Moabite widow, faced a choice after her husband’s death: return to her people or stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi. Ruth chose loyalty, saying, "Where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay" (Ruth 1:16). Her decision showed wisdom in trusting God’s plan, even in uncertain times.
Ruth’s Hard Work and Humility
Upon returning to Bethlehem, Ruth worked in the fields to support Naomi. Her diligence and humility gained her favour with Boaz, a kind man who later became her husband. Boaz admired her character, saying, "May the Lord repay you for what you have done" (Ruth 2:12). This shows that wisdom includes taking initiative and working hard.
Ruth’s Blessing and Legacy
Ruth followed Naomi’s advice to approach Boaz as a guardian-redeemer. Her humility and obedience led to their marriage, and through their union, God blessed her with a son, Obed, who became the grandfather of King David. Ruth’s story teaches that wisdom involves trust, humility, and patience in God’s timing (Ruth 4:13-17).
Key Lessons on Wisdom from Daniel and Ruth
Wisdom Comes from God: Both Daniel and Ruth sought God’s guidance in their decisions. James 1:5 says, "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all."
Obedience Brings Wisdom: Both obeyed God’s principles, even in challenging situations.
Courage is Part of Wisdom: Wisdom often requires courage, as seen in Daniel’s defiance of unjust laws and Ruth’s decision to leave her homeland.
Wisdom Values Humility: Daniel credited God for his insights, and Ruth humbly worked to support Naomi.
Faithful Actions Reflect Wisdom: Both characters demonstrated wisdom through their actions, Daniel in prayer and Ruth in her hard work.
God Rewards Wisdom: Daniel was elevated to positions of influence, and Ruth became part of Jesus’ lineage.
Application of Wisdom in Our Lives
The lives of Daniel and Ruth offer practical lessons for how we can apply wisdom in our own lives. The Bible provides ample guidance on living wisely, encouraging us to seek God’s wisdom in all we do.
Pray for Wisdom: Like Daniel, we should seek God’s wisdom in our decisions. James 1:5 encourages us, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him." By praying for wisdom, we align ourselves with God’s will and trust Him to guide our actions.
Live with Integrity: Both Daniel and Ruth demonstrated integrity in their actions. Proverbs 10:9 reminds us, "Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out." Wisdom requires honesty, faithfulness, and a commitment to doing what is right, even when no one is watching.
Work Diligently: Ruth’s willingness to work in the fields exemplifies the value of hard work. Proverbs 12:24 says, "Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labour." Wisdom means using our skills and time responsibly, working with purpose, and serving others as God calls us to.
Trust God’s Plan: Both Daniel and Ruth faced uncertain futures, yet they trusted in God’s plan. Proverbs 16:9 says, "In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps." Wisdom involves surrendering our desires and trusting that God will lead us where we need to go, even when the path is unclear.
Be Humble: Wisdom calls for humility, as seen in Daniel’s reliance on God and Ruth’s humble obedience. James 4:6 tells us, "God opposes the proud but shows favour to the humble." Humility opens the door for God’s wisdom to work in our lives, guiding our decisions and shaping our hearts.
Conclusion
Wisdom is one of the most valuable qualities we can seek, and the lives of Daniel and Ruth demonstrate how to live wisely. Whether standing firm in faith like Daniel or showing loyalty and humility like Ruth, their stories teach us that wisdom comes from God, is demonstrated in obedience and faith, and leads to blessings. As Proverbs 3:13 says, "Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding." Let us strive to walk in wisdom every day, trusting God to lead us on the right path.
Remember to Do This Daily
Each day brings choices and being wise means thinking before acting. Start by planning your day and setting priorities. Think about the long-term effects of your decisions, whether it’s about money, time, or relationships. Take care of your responsibilities with care and focus. Listen to advice from trusted people and learn from your mistakes. Treat others with kindness and fairness, even in small interactions. Stay calm in challenges, and don’t rush into decisions. Most importantly, ask God for guidance and trust Him to lead you. Wise living helps you stay balanced, make progress, and build a life of purpose.
Wisdom is not about knowing everything; it’s about making the right choices and trusting God to guide the way.
BE BLESSED
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