The Spiritual Gift of Wisdom
Service Gift — 1 Corinthians 12:8
σοφίας (sof-ee’-as) — skill, insight, intelligence — practical, insight, understand, sensible, sound judgment. From σοφός — skilled, wise. English derivative: philosophy — φιλο (love of) + σοφία (wisdom). Wisdom is a decision gift. God uses it to synthesize input from other gifts and choose the right path for ministry. It is not intellectual cleverness — it is God-given insight dependent entirely on God for timing, understanding, and balance.
Wisdom as Defined
- Practical — 1CO 1:21
- Insight — MAT 13:54
- Understand — ACS 7:22
- Sensible — LUK 11:49
- Sound Judgment — ROM 11:33
Wisdom as Named
Jesus grew and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom (LUK 2:40). God Himself is the source of wisdom (LUK 11:49). James directs every believer who lacks wisdom to ask of God, who gives liberally without reproach (JAM 1:5) — the gift flows from relationship, not from study alone.
Wisdom as Ministry
Wisdom synthesizes what Knowledge reveals, what Discernment identifies, and what Faith believes — and chooses the right next step. O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! (ROM 11:33).
Serving in Wisdom
Avoid hasty decisions — seek Godly counsel. Avoid foolish speaking, teasing those who walk in shame, and learn to listen. Avoid any decision that is not based upon Bible principles. I rarely make foolish decisions — God bases my decision making upon sound truths.