The Challenge of Human Wisdom
In Ecclesiastes 1:18, it is written:
“For in much [human] wisdom is much vexation, and he who increases knowledge increases sorrow.”
This scripture highlights a profound truth about human wisdom. When you know what to do in a particular situation, you soon realize there are countless other areas in life that require wisdom. This realization often brings frustration, as human wisdom demands diligent seeking and searching.
Scripture Reference:
“And I gave my heart to seek and search out by wisdom concerning all things that are done under heaven…” – Ecclesiastes 1:13 (KJV)
The Example of Solomon
Solomon, renowned for his wisdom, provides a compelling case study. Despite his wisdom, Solomon’s decisions—such as marrying 700 women and having 300 concubines to maintain peace—led to significant frustration and challenges.
Scripture Reference:
“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure…” – James 3:17 (KJV)
This indicates that Solomon’s wisdom, though vast, was ultimately human and limited.
The Superiority of Divine Wisdom
In contrast, divine wisdom, which comes from above, is driven by a supernatural energy and does not require the same exhaustive effort.
Scripture Reference:
“For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom…” – 1 Corinthians 12:8 (KJV)
This wisdom is imparted by the Holy Spirit, bypassing the need for human striving.
The Superiority of Divine Wisdom
Apostle Paul on the Wisdom of God
Apostle Paul provides further insight into the distinction between human and divine wisdom:
Scripture Reference:
“And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.” – 1 Corinthians 2:4-10 (KJV)
The Limitations of Human Wisdom
While human wisdom has its advantages, it inevitably brings frustration. Believers must learn to embrace God’s wisdom, where there is no frustration but rather the demonstration of the Spirit and power of God.
Embracing the Wisdom of God
Paul recognized that people were in spiritual darkness and needed light. Instead of relying on human wisdom, he submitted to God’s wisdom and, through the Holy Spirit, brought light and broke yokes with the demonstration of power.
Scripture Reference:
“And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say: For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.” – Luke 12:11-12 (KJV)
Conclusion
To navigate life effectively, we need the wisdom of God. Human effort alone will fail us, but the wisdom of God, empowered by the Holy Spirit, will guide and sustain us.
