The owl has been considered to be wise since before recorded history. No one is certain as to why this is true. The best explanation is related to their appearance. Their large eyes and stoic demeanor seem to indicate deep thought. Also, ancient peoples believed they had an “inner light” because they could see at night. Whatever started the myth of the wisdom of owls, there is nothing in their actions that supports it.
This is the bottom line. Wisdom is not about what we know, it is how we use what we know to create a positive outcome. Knowledge is important. But if that knowledge is not acted upon in a constructive manner, it serves no purpose. Wisdom is often referred to as sound judgement.
The importance of this discussion to a man who is pursuing a deeper relationship with God has two important aspects. The most crucial is that God calls us to practice wisdom in our lives. Being wise is a characteristic God looks for in a man who is suited for service in the Kingdom of God. Ephesians 1:17, “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.”
The second piece is also important. We have the ability to increase our wisdom. This takes place with a combined effort between God and us. As always, God does the heavy lifting, we just need to respond to what he does. God’s part is to actually provide us with the wisdom we need. 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 is an amazing promise. Our prayer for increased wisdom is one that will always be answered with a positive response. God wants to provide it for us.
We see from the passage above that our part in the process begins with asking. But it doesn’t stop there. Once we ask, we must then practice using the wisdom God gives so we strengthen it in our lives. This truth is also found in the book of James 3:13, “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” This is where sound judgement comes in.
Practical wisdom involves leading others through godly choices in our lives. Again, James is our source of understanding on this point in 3:17, “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” The Apostle Paul further clarifies the practical aspect of wisdom in Romans 12:3, “For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.”
Practicing good wisdom, or “sober judgment” as Paul defines it begins with humility and ends with working to see a positive, eternal outcome in the lives of others. When we are in a place to make a decision, wisdom demands that we ask, “How will my choices help someone grow closer in their walk with the Lord?” In between humility and service are gratitude and prayer. Gratitude is a consistent focus on the grace of God. As Christ followers, God has removed the penalty our sin deserved and given us a hope for eternity we don’t deserve. Remembering this keeps our focus on serving God by serving others. This understanding encourages and empowers our prayer. This is the essence of wisdom.