1 Corinthians 1.20
“Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?”
Much of life today is out of focus. Although we are living in the information age, it is painfully evident we are not living in the age of wisdom. People have access to more information than any time in human history. However, despite the nearly unlimited availability of information, wisdom is increasingly absent. People display a frightening inability to distinguish truth from error.
Common sense is a rare thing. T.S. Eliot, the great English poet, got it right when he asked two questions: “Where is the wisdom we have lost in knowledge? Where is the knowledge we have lost in information?”
We are in desperate need of wisdom. The current political discourse is a prime example. Most news agencies are not seeking to report what is true; instead, they seek to promote partisan agendas. Despite all the noise and “breaking news,” there is very little wisdom among the politicians, the media, or the citizen voters.
Politicians don’t speak truth; they say what their constituents want to hear. Voters don’t seek truth; they seek politicians who tell them what they want to hear. The media don’t report truthfully; they simply pander to their respective markets.
“One who is wise is cautious and turns away from evil, but a fool is reckless and careless.” (Proverbs 14.16)
Digital media have greatly increased the number of platforms for the distribution of information and opinions, but it has not always increased our wisdom. In many instances, digital media have become platforms for deceitfulness, manipulation, and stupidity.
Thankfully, there are some who utilize the new media for the distribution of what is good and right and true. We need more.
“How much better to get wisdom than gold! To get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.” (Proverbs 16.16)
The bible is an invaluable resource for learning and building wisdom into our lives. The entire purpose of the bible is to help us acquire and apply God’s wisdom to the decisions and activities of daily life. Read carefully and apply diligently what scripture teaches, and you will increase in discernment and discipline. You will live and work more skillfully, and you will make better decisions.
You will respond more wisely to the events and situations of life.
“I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened.” (Ephesians 1.16-17)
