The Wisdom Checklist

Who is wise and understanding among you?

James 3:13

How do we know if we are being wise or foolish? Wisdom is the application of knowledge, whereas foolishness ignores sound knowledge and does its own thing. We are called to be wise as serpents but gentle as doves (Matthew 10:16). How do we know if we are walking in wisdom?

Wise people fear God (Psalm 111:10).
Do you fear the Lord? This isn’t having a fearful spirit; it’s having a respect and awe of God as Lord of your life.

Wise people can receive advice (Proverbs 13:10).
Are you able to receive advice? Those who think they know it all will fall quickly into a pit; however, those who are willing to listen and learn from wise people will become wise.

Wise people number their days (Psalm 90:12).
Do you live as though today may be your last day on Earth? A wise person recognizes that tomorrow isn’t promised to them, so they are intentional to live every day with purpose and destiny in their hearts.

Wise people ask God for wisdom (Proverbs 1:6).
Do you consistently ask God for wisdom before making decisions? It’s easier to go with what you think is best; however, if you want God’s best, you will patiently seek His wisdom.

Wise people desire wisdom more than material things (Proverbs 8:11).
Do you desire God’s wisdom over worldly wealth? Seeking wisdom over wealth can make you richer than you ever dreamed possible because your life will demonstrate an abundance of love, peace, and joy.

Wise people speak wisely (Proverbs 10:31).
Are you deliberate and careful about the words you speak to other people? Taking your time to think before you speak will keep you from being trapped and ashamed of words you can’t take back.

Wise people live righteous lives (James 3:13).
Does your daily conduct at home, work, and school reflect a wise life? A wise person isn’t living a perfect life, but they are maturing and growing every day from their triumphs as well as their mistakes.