What does it mean to be wise? Is it different from smart?

Wisdom is a pretty big thing in scripture. In fact, an entire section of the Old Testament (Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon and Job) are known as "wisdom literature." Many of us think only more "experienced" people in life are wise, or that someone can become wise through intentional learning or education.

Wisdom doesn't belong on the campus, high rise or ivory tower.

It belongs to each of us.

This week, we are diving into the concept of wisdom as it relates to human experience. We will find out primary scripture from James. James talks about wisdom coming from a particular direction.

If you are wise and understand God's ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom. 14 But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your heart, don't cover up the truth with boasting and lying. 15 For jealousy and selfishness are not God's kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. 16 For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind.

17 But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. 18 And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness. James 3:13-18

Did you catch the idea that true wisdom isn't something we can come up with on our own? Wisdom also relates to how we are able to navigate a broken, sinful world. And wisdom doesn't just belong to those chosen few…but is a necessary part of being a disciple of Jesus Christ.

Creating chaos or calmness

Being wise means bringing in an alternate reality to the chaos. James speaks of "bitter-envy, jealousy, and selfish ambition." He is calling out when we create chaos. If we are truly wise, we will be creating calm.

In fact, the more we try to pull off wisdom on our own, the more we expose our own lack of wisdom. Ever hear the phrase"digging their own hole…?"

So come have this conversation about wisdom with us. Find out how each of us are supposed to be wise.