Wise Up!
Life 101 - Lesson 2
June 19-23, 2006

Getting wisdom is the most important thing you can do!

Proverbs 4:7 (NLT)

But the wisdom from above is pure first of all; it is also peaceful, gentle and friendly; it is full of compassion and produces a harvest of good deeds; it is free from prejudice and hypocrisy.

James 3:17 (TEV)

Wisdom is more precious than rubies. Nothing you could want is equal to it.

Proverbs 8:11 (NCV)

Last week we looked at the importance of not giving up on the dreams God gave us and His promises. This week we look at how to gain the wisdom needed to live the dreams God has given us. Wisdom is not something that we are born with and it doesn't happen by accident. We must desire wisdom and seek it from the right source. Wisdom comes from choosing to hear the truth in life, and actively practicing that truth. Wisdom is knowledge put into action. If we make the four choices discussed below, based on God's definition of wisdom, we will find that we grow wiser the more we respect God's power, accept God's Word, invest our time in search of wisdom, and expect God's answer. We will find we can make it a long way in life, in our faith, and have an impact on the world if we don't give up and we wise up.

MONDAY

1. RESPECT GOD'S POWER.
[Your Objective: Learn to respect God and turn to Him first.]

How does wisdom begin? Read Proverbs 9:10 and Psalm 111:10 for the answer.

  • Why do you think wisdom begins there?
  • What is the difference between fear that paralyzes and fear with awe-filled healthy respect?
  • Why do we sometimes not fear God?

According to Proverbs 3:7, on whose wisdom are we not to rely?

  • Where do people generally get their wisdom? How does this differ from wisdom from above?
  • How can thinking you can do it yourself disrespect God?

Worship (Magnification) - How many times do we consult other people, sometimes paying for their service? How many times did we first consult God about a decision? Every morning this week contemplate on God's power, and then ask for His wisdom in the day's decisions.

TUESDAY

2. ACCEPT GOD'S WORD.
[Your Objective: Accept God's Word by listening and obeying His teachings.]

Matthew 7:24 and Colossians 3:16 agree on our source for wisdom. From these verses, where is it found?

  • Rather than asking God for wisdom, why do people often insist on figuring things out for themselves?
  • How can pride be a barrier to listening to or obeying God's Word?

In addition to wisdom, what does Psalm 19:7 tell us God's Word provides?

  • How are the teachings of the Lord perfect?
  • How can God's Word give new strength?

How does Proverbs 10:8 contrast the wise with those who are foolish?

  • Why is it easier to listen and learn God's Word than to obey God's Word and put it into action?

Fellowship (Membership) - We can learn quicker among a wise counsel of trusted friends by listening and learning from one another's experiences, as well as encouraging one another in our life challenges. We also can be more effective in obeying God's Word among others that will hold us accountable. If you have not joined a small group to study and obey God's Word with others, locate a nearby church group this week and join. Be patient and don't give up looking for a group that meets your needs and in which you feel comfortable sharing and serving.

WEDNESDAY

3. INVEST YOUR TIME.
[Your Objective: Recognize the importance of using our time to gain wisdom from God.]

In Psalm 90:12, how does God's Word instruct us to measure the time of our lives? Why does it say we should do this?

  • Why do you think the use of our time is so important to God?
  • Name at least five ways people gain God's wisdom in their lives.

Proverbs 2:2-6 offers instructions for sound investment of our time. What are they?

  • Why do you think this verse emphasizes how much action is required to gain wisdom?
  • How might some people get side-tracked from God's wisdom based on their priorities and time?
  • What type of situations does God reveal in our lives to offer us wisdom through someone's pain?

Ministry (Ministry) - We serve God when we spend our time doing His will. To do God's will, it is important to not let worldly things deter us from our spiritual growth. This week think about how well you want wisdom, work for wisdom, watch for wisdom and wait for wisdom. These steps are the key to gaining Godly wisdom in your life.

THURSDAY

4. EXPECT GOD'S ANSWER.
[Your Objective: Learn to expect God's answers to our prayers.]

What should we expect when we ask God for wisdom? See James 1:5.

  • What are ways God begins to show an answer to a prayer without giving the whole answer?

From Proverbs 13:10, what kinds of people should we look to as sources of wisdom?

  • What are some ways to seek out people with Godly wisdom?

What does Paul want believers to understand in Ephesians 1:19?

  • If God has the answers, how can we renew our knowledge of God's incredibly great power to help us?
  • Why does it make a difference if we build a relationship with God first or try to get wisdom first?
  • Why is it that the wisdom that penetrates our heart usually comes from God?
  • If we've prayed to God, asked for help and then read something in a secular periodical that helps our situation, might that be an answer from God? How can we determine the Godly wisdom in secular information or advice from other people?

Read 1 Corinthians 1:24 and Colossians 2:3. Who is wisdom and where is it hidden?

  • How can pride be a barrier to wisdom from God and how can doubt be a barrier to wisdom from God?
  • How is faith related to wisdom?
  • If wisdom stems from a relationship with someone, from what relationships in our lives can we gain wisdom?

Discipleship (Maturity) - On life's journey of twists and turns, people usually go on a treasure hunt for answers to life's challenges. On your next quest for the treasures of wisdom, instead of letting "x" mark the spot and settling for mere man's understanding, turn that "x" to a "+" and let the cross of Christ be your ultimate source of wisdom. Utilize His Word to find the hidden treasures of wisdom. This week, take time to ask God for hard answers to a current situation of concern in your life and read the Bible for insight. Remember to wait and listen for His answer.

Take a moment to review any assignments/challenges made during the personal application and commitment section of your previous meeting. Seeing God at work in the lives of those who commit to Him is essential for growth.

FRIDAY

PERSONAL APPLICATION AND COMMITMENT:
[Your Objective: Develop your relationship with Christ so you trust His wisdom for every part of your life.]

We all have things in our lives that we regret: bad choices, thoughtless actions, or actions we did not take. We often feel we have to clean ourselves up before we come to Christ. But Christ's wisdom and love shows that we can come to Him just as we are and He will accept us. He wants us to have a relationship with Him so He can build or faith, teach us His principles, give us His wisdom, and show us how to lead a life like He lived. We have to start now to take the time to seek wisdom and put it into action. If you don't currently have a relationship with Christ, ask Him to come into your life just as it is and give you the wisdom and power to make your life fit the dreams you know God has put in your heart. If you have a relationship with Christ, what can you do to strengthen that relationship? Commit to putting God's wisdom into action step-by-step, just as He reveals to you and don't run ahead relying on your own wisdom. Decide on one action you will take to seek wisdom this week and then put that wisdom into action. Share the wisdom you discover this week with your small group members at the next meeting.