Developing Wisdom

We can learn four things about the wisdom that comes from intimacy with the Father by examining Jesus’ example in these verses. Wisdom comes from listening Wisdom is willingness to listen to and learn from others. Jesus was ‘sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions’ (Luke 2:46). Sir Isaac Newton said, ‘I find intelligence is better spotted when analysing the questions asked rather than the answers given.’ Often, those who know most speak least. When we are talking, we are usually merely repeating what we already know. When we are listening, we may learn something new. Asking good questions is the key to being a good conversationalist. It was said of President J. F. Kennedy that he made you think he had nothing else to do except ask you questions and listen, with extraordinary concentration, to your answer. You knew that, for the time being, he had blotted out both the past and the future for you. Wisdom leads to simplicity Wisdom brings clarity. Jesus knew where he should be and what he should do. He declared, ‘Didn't you know I had to be in my Father’s house?’ (v.49). Knowledge leads us from the simple to the complex; wisdom leads us from the complex to the simple. Wisdom is holistic Wisdom is shown not only in what we say, but also in how we live: ‘Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them’ (v.51). Wisdom is about the whole of life, rather than just our intellect or our words. Wisdom should grow Through his intimate relationship with God, ‘Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and people’ (v.52) – a very similar description to that used of Samuel (1 Samuel 2:26). Wisdom should grow as we get older. Not that Jesus’ wisdom was flawed or imperfect, but it grew as he matured, as it should with us. This is a prayer we often prayed for our children – that they would grow in wisdom and stature and in favour with God and people. Above all, Jesus’ wisdom came from his intimate relationship with God. God was his Father. He knew he had to be in his Father’s house, and his intimacy with his Father was the foundation of his wisdom.