One Thing Worth Pursuing
The key to living a life of wisdom is to recognize that the things that matter most are the things the world cannot provide.
Paul brings this truth to light in 1 Corinthians 1:
Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not come to know God, God was well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe. (1 Corinthians 1:20b–21 NASB)
Augustine once preached a sermon in which he asked, in effect, this question: If God were to tell you that you could receive all possessions and power and desires that you could ever wish for in this world, so that everything in creation would be yours, but that in order to have these things you would never be allowed to see His face, what would you choose?
There is one thing that this world cannot offer, and that is the only thing ultimately worth pursuing—the presence of God. That is why Paul rejoices in Christ as “wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption” (1 Corinthians 1:30). Christ was God’s very presence on earth, and by the Holy Spirit He is God’s presence in everyone who believes in Him.
God’s Wisdom in Our Lives
The more we love and pursue Christ, the less we are impressed with anything else. This enables us to live without anxiety, knowing that He is the One who provides for us and that, if we have Him, everything else is under His sovereign control.
God’s wisdom often seems to run contrary to human wisdom. He purposely chooses people and things that are weak as His instruments so that it will be clear that strength, salvation, and wisdom come from Him (1 Corinthians 1:26–31). He does not look for those with impressive outward abilities but for those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. Therefore, as His disciples, we should not boast in the things that are impressive to people, but focus on living in a way that pleases God.
In His wisdom, God also knows better than we do what is best for us. He does not withhold blessings from us. But He also allows trials to come upon us for reasons unknown to us except that they are for our good and His glory.
Reflecting on God’s Wisdom
Here are three questions to meditate on in light of the seemingly upside-down nature of God’s wisdom.
- How can the loss of prosperity become a severe mercy?
- How can you cultivate the mindset of a pilgrim, an alien, and a sojourner on this earth?
- Why does the wisdom of the world regard the wisdom of the Word as foolish?
Watch more of Ken Boa’s Friday morning study videos here.
