Wisdom

In the biblical context, wisdom is more than mere knowledge or intelligence; it is the application of divine truth to life. The Bible portrays wisdom as a gift from God, essential for living a life that is pleasing to Him. The book of Proverbs is a central source of biblical wisdom literature, emphasizing the fear of the Lord as the foundation of wisdom: "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline" (Proverbs 1:7).

Wisdom is personified in Proverbs 8, where it is depicted as calling out to humanity, offering insight and understanding. This personification underscores the value and desirability of wisdom: "For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire compares with her" (Proverbs 8:11). The pursuit of wisdom is encouraged throughout Scripture, as it leads to a life of righteousness and peace.

The New Testament further develops the concept of wisdom, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the writings of the apostles. James, the brother of Jesus, writes, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him" (James 1:5). This passage highlights the accessibility of divine wisdom to those who seek it with a sincere heart.

The Apostle Paul contrasts worldly wisdom with the wisdom of God, which is often seen as foolishness by the world: "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God" (1 Corinthians 1:18). True wisdom, according to Paul, is found in understanding and embracing the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Eternal Perspective

An eternal perspective is a viewpoint that considers life in light of eternity, recognizing the transient nature of earthly existence and the enduring reality of the spiritual realm. This perspective is rooted in the teachings of Scripture, which consistently remind believers of the temporary nature of the world and the eternal promises of God.

The Apostle Paul frequently emphasizes the importance of an eternal perspective. In 2 Corinthians 4:17-18, he writes, "For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal" . This passage encourages believers to focus on the eternal rewards that await them, rather than the temporary trials they face.

Jesus Himself taught about the importance of storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth: "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal" (Matthew 6:19-20). This teaching underscores the value of living with an eternal perspective, prioritizing spiritual wealth over material possessions.

The book of Hebrews also speaks to the eternal perspective, particularly in the context of faith. Hebrews 11, often referred to as the "faith chapter," recounts the lives of those who lived with an eternal perspective, looking forward to the promises of God. "These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth" (Hebrews 11:13).

An eternal perspective shapes the believer's approach to life, influencing decisions, values, and priorities. It encourages a focus on God's eternal kingdom and the fulfillment of His purposes, providing hope and assurance in the face of life's uncertainties.