Why Being a Bible Reader Makes Us Wise

In today’s knowledge-rich world, it’s easy to equate learning with wisdom, but being well-informed is not the same as being wise. The Bible offers a distinct path to wisdom that transforms lives in ways knowledge alone cannot. Unlike intelligence, which can be built through education and skills, biblical wisdom comes from an entirely different place—one rooted in reverence for God and understanding life’s higher purposes. As Proverbs 9:10 reminds us, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”

The reverence for God noted in Scripture is not a fear in the sense of anxiety or dread, but rather a profound respect and recognition of God’s holiness and power. When we approach the Bible with this reverence, we invite a perspective shift that reaches far deeper than mere information. The Bible not only provides practical guidance but encourages us to see our world through a spiritual lens that uncovers truth hidden beneath the surface. Through its stories, proverbs, and parables, it shows that wisdom often involves compassion, humility, patience, and, perhaps most importantly, the willingness to surrender our limited understanding for the insights God provides.

Biblical wisdom stands apart because it is always practical—it connects directly to how we live. This is why the Bible addresses topics that seem eternally relevant: relationships, money, justice, and humility. Where knowledge is often about finding the correct answer, wisdom from the Bible teaches us how to respond with integrity in situations that lack an obvious solution. This quality of wisdom is especially clear in the book of Proverbs, which instructs readers on ways to approach work, friendships, and decisions with discernment, ultimately guiding us not toward what is merely profitable or efficient but what is good and righteous. The gospels show us this as well and don't get me started on the letters of Paul.  Oh my!

The effect of biblical wisdom is transformative. In James 3:17, we see a description of divine wisdom as “pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.” This wisdom reshapes our character and encourages qualities like humility, kindness, and patience that reflect Christ. Unlike intelligence, which can be used for self-promotion or personal gain, biblical wisdom leads to a deeper selflessness that impacts others. It’s a gentle strength that roots itself in a different sort of knowledge—one that points back to God’s heart and intentions for humanity.

Practically, wisdom from the Bible enhances our ability to make sound decisions, especially when navigating life’s gray areas. The Bible doesn’t always provide direct answers but offers a framework for thinking and feeling that prioritizes love, justice, and respect. While intelligence might help us solve problems, biblical wisdom provides us the clarity and guidance to make decisions that align with God’s greater plan. We see this in the stories of figures like Esther, Solomon, and Paul, whose lives were shaped by choices that went beyond logic and self-interest to trust in God’s promises. These examples remind us that true wisdom often involves making sacrifices for the benefit of others, thereby reflecting God’s love and compassion. 

The Bible’s wisdom also transcends generations, leaving a legacy that far outlasts personal achievements. Whereas intelligence is often a means to individual success, biblical wisdom brings a generational blessing, showing how wise choices ripple outward and affect others. This legacy, rooted in integrity and justice, impacts not just our lives but the lives of those who come after us.

In sum, reading the Bible develops wisdom that extends far beyond what intelligence alone can offer. By grounding us in God’s eternal perspective, it teaches us to live with purpose, patience, and compassion. In this way, biblical wisdom transforms us into people of greater insight, integrity, and depth—qualities that knowledge alone could never achieve.  

My final word of encouragement for being a Bible reader is to make sure you read large sections at a time.  Whole books and letters are important instead of a tiny bit of verses.  I have learned that taking in whole sections and book give me a bird's eye view that helps to connect the dots of the entire Bible.  It helps me to see character traits of God throughout the entire Bible in a way that is transforming my trust to be stronger and stronger every day.  He is the same and has the same standards from Genesis to Revelations.  I love to connect the dots!  

What questions might you have for me about this process?  Email me and I would be happy to chat about this.  The best part of this will be getting to know you.