Bible Thoughts

December 12, 1999

There had been problems at Corinth. They did not seem to be able to settle the difficulties. Paul admonishes them to choose someone who is wise that can assist in bringing to an end their differences.

The brethren had gone so far as to appeal to civil authorities to solve their problems. Paul shamed them for such behavior. Civil authorities judge by civil laws; God's people settle differences by the Word of God. When wise men apply the principles of righteousness and wise people are willing to listen and apply what they are taught, problems are solved.

The church needs wise men. Men who stand up for the truth. Men who are not afraid to apply the principles of righteousness to situations. Men who are willing to take action to see that God's word is respected and followed. Men who will appeal to the scriptures and apply it to all situations.

When the people of God were building the tabernacle, it was "wise-hearted men" who had "wisdom and understanding"(Exodus 36:2) in their hearts. With the knowledge they received, they went about building and completing a structure dedicated to the service of God.

In every age, God has sought those who would be wise in his service to accomplish the works of righteousness. When God chose Noah, he chose a wise man. When he chose Moses, he picked a wise leader. How about the apostles? Were they not full of wisdom gained through the graciousness of God? In every age, God has needed wise men to carry out his plan and purposes for mankind. In our day, we need men who are wise enough to remember the Law of Christ, apply it to all situations, and be enthusiastic to use such wisdom.

How does one become a wise man(or woman) in God's sight? Since there is no miraculous indwelling of the Holy Spirit in our day, it will take diligent effort to grow in the knowledge and wisdom that should characterize all who would be wise. Paul told Timothy to "study to show thyself approved." It one would have the respect of righteous people and the confidence of the saints, the word of God must be laid up in his heart(Psalm 119:11).

It is certainly true that not all men who think they are wise are wise. Also, the standards of men are not the criteria for deciding who is wise. When one is verbal and often expresses his/her views on many subjects does not necessarily give evidence of wisdom. The only way to decide who is wise in God's sight is to find out what God revealed about wise men.

"Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be wiser; Teach a righteous man and he will increase in learning"(Proverbs 9:9).

A wise man will listen(Proverbs 1:4). They want to receive instruction in the truth and to apply such in their lives.

"A wise man is strong; Yea, a man of knowledge increaseth might"(Proverbs 24:5).

A wise man is strong in character; strong in faith; strong in the desire to learn and apply his knowledge; strong in service to Jehovah. That strength is demonstrated in the daily life of one who follows the Lord.

"The simple believeth every word; But the prudent man(wise man) looketh well to his going"(Proverbs 14:15).

A wise man in God's sight will weigh what is said(or written). The world is saturated with ideas and teachings that conflict with the word of God. The discerning disciple will be careful what he accepts and/or believes.

"A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil" (Proverbs 14:16).

A wise man not only lives a righteous life, but will always be on guard to the temptations that are sent from Satan. Paul instructs us to "abstain from every form of evil"(I Thessalonians 5:22).

"A fool uttereth all his anger; But a wise man keepeth it back and stilleth it"(Proverbs 29:11).

Anger causes many to get in trouble. A wise man who knows the ways of God learns to control the anger before it makes a fool of him. Wise men have control over their emotions.

"Reprove a wise man, and he will love thee"(Proverbs 9:8).

Even a wise man can be wrong, since one is only human. Wise men gladly accept correction when it is needed. The wise one understands that you love them and have only their interests at heart. It is also good to learn to accept "the rebuke of the wise"(Ecclesiastes 7:5).

"Seest thou a man that is wise in his own conceit? There is more hope for a fool than of him"(Proverbs 26:12).

A wise man is not wrapped up in himself. It takes wisdom to be able to look at oneself and make a proper judgment of what are one's capabilities and shortcomings.

"Who is wise and understanding among you? let him show by his good life his works in meekness of wisdom"(James 3:13).

Seen any wise men lately? Let them stand up and be counted for the Lord. May every congregation seek out and find such men. Men of integrity; men of honesty; men of strength, men of commitment; wise men who are Christians and provide the leadership to move God's people into a successful battle against error and immorality; standing firm for truth and right. What kind of a man are you?