A Heart of Wisdom

When you think of wisdom, what comes to mind? Do you picture a person older than yourself sharing a lifetime of stories? Or maybe you envision an astute professor delivering information to a crowd? Our world often alludes to the idea that wisdom is found solely through life’s experiences or by poring over textbooks and gaining knowledge. The Bible, however, reveals the clear path to true wisdom. It also encourages us to live significant lives for Christ’s sake and God’s glory.

 One way to find wisdom is found in Psalm 90:12. Moses cried out to God in prayer asking Him to, “teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Moses knew that in order to broaden his view on the brevity of life, he would need the Word of God. So what does it look like to number our days? Thankfully, the Bible gives us direction.

 Numbering our days starts by remembering that our earthly lives are fleeting. Our lifetime is a passing vapor, which is leading us to our real destination: Heaven. The end point of our earthly lives is only the beginning of living in eternity with God. Understanding Psalm 39: 4-5 can help us have the proper view of the brevity of life and bring wisdom to our hearts.

 "O LORD, make me know my end and what is the measure of my days; let me know how fleeting I am! Behold, you have made my days a few handbreadths, and my lifetime is as nothing before you. Surely all mankind stands as a mere breath! Selah”

 While these verses may seem daunting, having the mindset that our lives will vanish like a vapor, can positively impact how we choose to live our lives today. If we bank on a guaranteed tomorrow, perhaps we’ll miss what God offers us today. Ephesians 5:15 reminds us to, “(make) the most of (our) time, because the days are evil.” If ever there was a verse to tape to the mirror, it is Ephesians 5:15. This verse is a great reminder that making the most of our time is vitally important to God.

 We know God created us to bear fruit as well as to love Him. He receives glory when we occupy our limited time on earth to the fullest. Since Jesus’ ministry was focused on people, isn’t this a good indicator as to where God might desire we spend much of our time as well? Impacting the lives of others by being a thoughtful friend, a loving spouse or a caring co-worker speaks volumes to a listening world. And reaching out to someone that has been on your heart for weeks or stepping up to a challenge that seems beyond your ability to handle, will allow God to shine as we rely on Him for strength.

 God also cares about our individual hearts and attitudes. Do we make regular church attendance a priority? Do we show up with an attitude of thankfulness for the opportunity to worship alongside the body of Christ? How about our quiet times with Him? Do we study His Word so we can learn more about His heart? After spending time in God’s Word, poring over its contents, we can find the strength to get up out of our comfortable chairs and make a difference around us.

 True wisdom is to number our days and occupy our time until He returns or takes us home. Let’s move our hearts closer to the truth that God cares about what we do and say each day. He is worthy of a life lived fully for Him! With our use of time being an indicator of our hearts, how is your heart today? Let’s keep our focus on Him and make wise use of our time, thus revealing a heart of true wisdom to the world around us.