Wisdom in Moderation
Jump to: SubtopicsTerms
Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Concept
Wisdom in moderation refers to the prudent and balanced application of knowledge and understanding in one's life. It is the practice of exercising restraint and discernment, avoiding extremes, and making decisions that reflect a sound judgment. This concept is deeply rooted in biblical teachings, where wisdom is often associated with the fear of the Lord and the pursuit of righteousness.

Biblical Foundation
The Bible frequently emphasizes the importance of wisdom and moderation. Proverbs 3:13-14 states, "Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who acquires understanding, for she is more profitable than silver, and her gain is better than fine gold." This passage highlights the value of wisdom as a guiding principle in life, surpassing material wealth.

Moderation is closely linked to self-control, a fruit of the Spirit as described in Galatians 5:22-23 : "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law." Here, self-control is presented as an essential aspect of a Spirit-led life, enabling believers to live wisely and avoid excess.

Examples in Scripture
The life of King Solomon serves as a prominent example of wisdom in moderation. When God offered Solomon anything he desired, Solomon chose wisdom to govern his people effectively (1 Kings 3:9). His request pleased God, who granted him unparalleled wisdom and discernment. However, Solomon's later years illustrate the consequences of abandoning moderation, as his many foreign wives led him astray (1 Kings 11:1-4).

Another example is found in the teachings of Jesus. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus advises against worry and excessive concern for material needs, urging His followers to seek first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:31-33). This teaching underscores the importance of prioritizing spiritual matters over worldly concerns, embodying wisdom in moderation.

Practical Application
Wisdom in moderation can be applied in various aspects of life, including speech, consumption, and decision-making. Proverbs 17:27 advises, "A man of knowledge restrains his words, and a man of understanding maintains a calm spirit." This verse encourages thoughtful and measured communication, avoiding the pitfalls of hasty or excessive speech.

In terms of consumption, Proverbs 25:16 warns, "If you find honey, eat just what you need, lest you have too much and vomit it up." This metaphorical advice extends to all areas of indulgence, advocating for balance and self-restraint.

Theological Implications
From a theological perspective, wisdom in moderation reflects a life aligned with God's will. It involves recognizing human limitations and relying on divine guidance to navigate life's complexities. James 1:5 offers reassurance, stating, "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." This promise encourages believers to seek God's wisdom continually, ensuring their actions and decisions remain balanced and righteous.

Conclusion
While the Bible does not explicitly use the phrase "wisdom in moderation," the principles of wisdom, self-control, and balance are woven throughout its teachings. By embracing these principles, believers can lead lives that honor God and reflect His character.
Subtopics

Personification of Wisdom

Statecraft: Wisdom In

The Wisdom of God is One of his Attributes

The Wisdom of God: All Human Wisdom Derived From

The Wisdom of God: Beyond Human Comprehension

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in His Counsels

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in His Foreshadowing Events

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in His Works

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: His Saints

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Actions

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Afflictions of Saints

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Heart

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Infirmities of Saints

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Minutest Matters

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Most Secret Things

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Time of Judgment

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Want of Saints

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Way of Saints

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Wicked

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Words

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Works of the Wicked

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Redemption

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Searching the Heart

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Understanding the Thoughts

The Wisdom of God: Incomparable

The Wisdom of God: Infinite

The Wisdom of God: Mighty

The Wisdom of God: Nothing is Concealed From

The Wisdom of God: Perfect

The Wisdom of God: Saints Ascribe to Him

The Wisdom of God: should be Magnified

The Wisdom of God: The Gospel Contains Treasures of

The Wisdom of God: The Wicked Question

The Wisdom of God: Underived

The Wisdom of God: Universal

The Wisdom of God: Unsearchable

The Wisdom of God: Wisdom of Saints is Derived From

The Wisdom of God: Wonderful

Wisdom

Wisdom Literature

Wisdom of Aholiab

Wisdom of Bezaleel

Wisdom of Daniel

Wisdom of Ethan, Heman, Chalcol, and Darda

Wisdom of Ezra

Wisdom of God

Wisdom of Hiram

Wisdom of Jesus

Wisdom of Joseph

Wisdom of Moses

Wisdom of Other Skilled Artisans

Wisdom of Paul

Wisdom of Solomon

Wisdom of the Magi (Wise Men from the East)

Wisdom of the Princes of the Tribe of Issachar

Wisdom of Women

Wisdom: Prayer for Spiritual

Wisdom: Spiritual, from God

Wisdom: Spiritual: Unclassified Scriptures Relating to

Wisdom: Worldly

Related Terms

Wise-hearted (10 Occurrences)

Wise-men (4 Occurrences)

Over-wise (1 Occurrence)

All-wise (1 Occurrence)

Discerning (29 Occurrences)

Mocker (11 Occurrences)

Conceit (14 Occurrences)

Advisers (22 Occurrences)

Scorner (12 Occurrences)

Suggestions (9 Occurrences)

Prudent (40 Occurrences)

Magicians (16 Occurrences)

Stupid (20 Occurrences)

Shrewd (14 Occurrences)

Scoffer (11 Occurrences)

Discernment (43 Occurrences)

Skillful (42 Occurrences)

Skill (26 Occurrences)

Discretion (20 Occurrences)

Brutish (12 Occurrences)

Consultation (8 Occurrences)

Arioch (6 Occurrences)

Senseless (22 Occurrences)

Magi (4 Occurrences)

Skilled (44 Occurrences)

Ability (34 Occurrences)

Discern (49 Occurrences)

Arts (48 Occurrences)

Simple (40 Occurrences)

Purposes (67 Occurrences)

Suggestion (25 Occurrences)

Advice (52 Occurrences)

Cunning (43 Occurrences)

Plans (55 Occurrences)

Kill (310 Occurrences)

Dark (234 Occurrences)

Diligently (85 Occurrences)

Men (18419 Occurrences)

Meaningless (32 Occurrences)

Prudence (9 Occurrences)

Bar-jesus (1 Occurrence)

Beth-lehem (49 Occurrences)

Barjesus (1 Occurrence)

Bezalel (10 Occurrences)

Builds (18 Occurrences)

Compared (29 Occurrences)

Counsellors (21 Occurrences)

Conjurers (7 Occurrences)

Counselors (21 Occurrences)

Aholiab (5 Occurrences)

Admonition (8 Occurrences)

Ar'i-och (4 Occurrences)

Astrologers (9 Occurrences)

Sensible (15 Occurrences)

Standards (14 Occurrences)

Season (101 Occurrences)

Star (16 Occurrences)

Designs (118 Occurrences)

Craftsmen (22 Occurrences)

Behaviour (115 Occurrences)

Bethlehem (49 Occurrences)

Consult (27 Occurrences)

Succeed (47 Occurrences)

Discipline (63 Occurrences)

Mary (50 Occurrences)

Amen (74 Occurrences)

Builder (33 Occurrences)

Puts (197 Occurrences)

Companion (44 Occurrences)

Sense (195 Occurrences)

Keepeth (60 Occurrences)

Assemblies (48 Occurrences)

Blindness (7 Occurrences)

Sayings (134 Occurrences)

Becometh (82 Occurrences)

Considered (80 Occurrences)

Slow (43 Occurrences)

Determined (89 Occurrences)

Wisdom in Ministry
Top of Page
Top of Page