The Bible distinguishes between intellect and wisdom. The Bible is the Word of God penned under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. The Word is without error, written by —- chosen people, in —- different continents, over —- years, in —- separate languages. Human intellect and wisdom are fundamentally different. The definition of intellect:  The ability to think, reason, and understand. It involves the cognitive processes of learning, analyzing, and acquiring knowledge. Proverbs 1:7 “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” This suggests that while intellect can acquire knowledge, it must be rooted in a respect for God in order to be led to true understanding.

Definition of Wisdom: The application of knowledge and understanding, particularly in a moral or ethical context. It involves discernment, sound judgment, and the ability to navigate life’s challenges according to godly principles. Bible Reference James 1:5 “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” This verse emphasizes that wisdom is a DIVINE GIFT and implies that it is not merely an intellectual pursuit but requires divine assistance. All humans, leaders, and just ordinary folks in their old sinful nature rely solely on their own understanding, or intellect to straighten out problems. Humans engage cognitive focus on their own acquired knowledge and understanding, but fail to please God, why? 

Wisdom from God deploys an ethical, grace filled focus on how to live rightly and make decisions that align with God’s will. Our human Intellect is developed through the education of human experience, and human effort. Wisdom is a gift from God that is sought through prayer and humility. Proverbs 2:6 “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Our Intellect enables a person to pridefully analyze massive information. Wisdom guides a person to humbly apply knowledge ethically and effectively in life situations.

Biblical Examples: Solomon is historically known to be the wisest man ever born. The young ruler asked God for wisdom to govern and make wise decisions. 1 Kings 3:5-14. The book of Proverbs is dedicated to the pursuit of wisdom, urging readers to seek it as more valuable than wealth. Proverbs 3:13-18. God encourages His people to pursue knowledge of Him but He emphasizes that wisdom is a God-given trait that leads to a righteous and fulfilling life. We pray for all leaders of all nations that they would seek God and His wisdom.

To hunger and thirst for more of God is a sign of His indwelt glory. A spiritual longing, is the desire to rely on God, and to pursue His will in the scriptures.

● Proverbs 1:5-7 “Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance—for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
● Matthew 5:6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”
● John 6:35 “Then Jesus declared, ‘I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in Me will never be thirsty.'”
● Psalm 42:1-2  “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?”
● Isaiah 55:1  “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost.”
● Revelation 21:6  ‘It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life.'”

These scriptures reflect our deep spiritual need for God and His righteousness. Our Father supplies our physical and spiritual sustenance. Matthew 6:33 “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” May God’s face continue to shine upon you.