Living in Increase (Part 1) - Increase in UnderstandingSample

The Gift of Wisdom

What’s the greatest gift you’ve ever received? For me, it would probably have to be the pet hamster I got for Christmas when I was in elementary school. Well, the second hamster I got… the first one died a few hours after I got it on Christmas morning. I have faint memories of my dad trying to nurse the first hamster back to health with a dropper at the table for Christmas dinner. Unfortunately, it still passed, but I got my second hamster in its place, and it brought me so much joy!

When discussing gifts, our minds often go to memories like these. We think about Christmas morning, birthdays, and anniversaries. We recall opening gift bags or wrapping paper and hiding an item or animal, but in all the years I have asked people this question, I have never had someone respond with “wisdom.” Let me tell you what: Wisdom is by far one of the best gifts we could ever receive and one of the best things we could ever possess!

In 1 Kings 3:1-15, we read about King Solomon asking for wisdom to “distinguish between right and wrong” and have a “discerning heart to govern [his] people” (v.9). When God saw that Solomon asked for wisdom, He was pleased (1 Kings 3:10). He ended up giving Solomon so much more, including wealth and honor (1 Kings 3:13)!

Proverbs 16:16 tells us that receiving wisdom and insight (understanding) is better than receiving silver or gold. Wisdom is a wonderful gift because it keeps on giving. When we receive wisdom by reading God’s Word and praying, we can apply it daily. So, I encourage you today to pray and ask for the gift of wisdom—one of the greatest gifts ever!

Emily N. Green

Action Step: Pray this prayer: "God, thank you for the gift of wisdom! Today, I ask for an outpouring of knowledge, insight, understanding, and wisdom. Help me use wisdom in all I do today. I acknowledge that wisdom comes from You, so I give you all the praise and glory for every wise choice I make today! Thank you, Lord. Amen."