True Wisdom

12 SEPTEMBER 2021 | PRAYER & PRAISE SERVICE

Rev Lilian Ang

Scripture Passage: Ecclesiastes 10:1-14 (NIV)

WATCH | SERMON (VIDEO)

READ | SERMON NOTES

Summary | We live in a world of information overload. Is all this information making us wise or just knowledgeable?

Knowledge is the accumulation of information, while wisdom is the application of knowledge. True wisdom is to be able to exercise sound judgement based on knowledge, understanding and discernment to pursue a godly course of action.

The greatest wisdom known to scripture is the Skill of Living Well. We are to live in accord with God’s word and to be in tandem with God’s heartbeat. Ecclesiastes 10 contains practical advice for everyday life on how to cultivate true wisdom.

1. Our Walk (v1-3)

Preserve our walk with God even in little situations. In our daily life, a small mistake can mess up a wonderful reputation and outweigh all the good. Sin begins with little things. Little inconsistencies, if not checked, undermine the whole character. Folly is a heart problem. We live according to who we are on the inside, and it shows in our character and conduct. True wisdom is about choosing to walk in Godliness, letting the Spirit, not the flesh, control us. The proof of true wisdom is in our actions. When a fool stays at home, no one realises his foolishness. When a fool goes out into the world, everyone he meets knows that he is a fool!

2. Our Way (v4-7)

Protect our way of life with gentleness even in difficult situations. A calm response can resolve a touchy situation. Take time to examine the situation and not act rashly, and we may find that what seemed to be a great offence is just a minor thing. It is not wise to answer back - just quietly accept and it will soon pass over. Pray for God’s spirit to guide our response so that we have the wisdom of God. Pray for those in authority so that they will act as good and wise leaders. Do not make things difficult for those under us. Things may not turn out the way we expect. We often run away from difficult situations, e.g. divorce, job hopping, church switching, etc. Do not walk away because it takes time for trust to be restored. No matter who we think is at fault, it is wise to mend a relationship. The wise gently work things out.

3. Our Work (v8-11)

Prepare our work with great care in view of unforeseen situations. Every day activities can have unforeseen results and the best intentions may backfire on us. Things may backfire if that is not supposed to be what we are doing. When we have wisdom, our actions are sharper, and we will be able to accomplish our goals better. Wisdom has the effect of making the wise more efficient and effective in living in the fear of the Lord.

4. Our Words (v12-14)

Proclaim our words with grace in everyday situations. Fools are destroyed by their own words. They say things without consideration and destroy others with their speech. Foolish words yield unfavourable outcomes. We practise wisdom when we speak words of grace and love towards others. It requires us to think how our words will affect others. What comes out of our mouth is an overflow of what is in our heart. Selfish attitudes in our hearts often manifest in hurtful words. It is only when we put God’s truths into practice in every area of our lives, that we begin to see wisdom take shape in us.

True wisdom is living in the light of God – the source of all wisdom.

(Sermon notes by Honey Vreugdewater)

PONDER | REFLECTION QUESTIONS

1. How is wisdom different from knowledge, understanding and discernment?

2. Ecclesiastes 10:1 says “a little folly outweighs wisdom.” How have you seen this principle in your own experience? When have you seen small foolish decisions bring damaging effects?

3. How is wisdom manifested in your walk with God, your way of life, your work and your words?

4. In what ways are the words of the wise and the words of fools contrasted in Ecclesiastes 10:12-14.

5. Identify one leader you know serving in the civil service, community, your workplace or at church. Ask the person what the position involves and how you can pray for him or her. Pray for the leader daily for the next 2 weeks.