If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. James 1:5

Who is the wisest person you know? I thought long and hard about this question and before I tell you about my wise person, I’m going to define it for you in Greek. The word is Sophia* and is defined as: the capacity to understand and, as a result, to act wisely.

So back to the question: who is the wisest person you know?

This would be someone who gives you godly, reliable, and trustworthy advice when you need help with a problem. I’m telling you right now that this person, whoever it may be, is a gift. Hold on to them and treasure the relationship because they are rare and hard to find on this side of heaven.

My wise person is my counselor, Jim. I went to seek help through professional counseling during a family crisis, and though I pay him, it’s worth every penny. I wish I met him earlier in some other context because I would love to be his friend. He’s kind and compassionate and I can always count on him for direction, prayer and encouragement.

I also have a wise friend or two, but for this crisis, I needed someone who was objective and had years of experience in a specific area. And I sought out a believer because my concern was a spiritual and very personal one. It blows my mind that through one of the most difficult circumstances I’ve ever faced, God sent someone who blessed me far beyond my immediate need.

Wisdom is a gift from Him and one of the most valuable spiritual benefits we’ve been given as believers. Proverbs 2 gives us a complete picture of those benefits but here’s a snippet: …if you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding… (v. 3-6)

Here’s the great news: we can always find free wisdom in God’s word and by following Jesus’ example. He lived a life pleasing to God, and when we model our own lives after him we can be sure we’re on the right path. He is wonderfully generous and wants us to have a full life. If you find yourself needing wisdom (and don’t we all), simply ask him for it.

If you possess wisdom yourself, share that gift with others. You will bless someone in amazing ways and God will bless you for your service!

(* Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament based on Semantic Domains.)