Smart or Wise?

Who is the smartest person you know? Someone in your family? In school? On TV? In this church?

Who is the WISEST person you know? I looked it up on the internet, and found two books: The World’s Best Advice from the World’s Wisest Women by B.J. Gallegher and The Wisest Man in America by W.D. Wetherell—but that doesn’t really help me. How about in the Bible? King Solomon asked God for wisdom, and was supposed to be the wisest ruler. Then there were the three Wise Men who followed the star to Bethlehem to see baby Jesus.

What’s the difference between being smart or knowledgeable and being wise?

Smart—knowledgeable, knows a lot of facts and information

Wise—makes good decisions or choices

Do you eat your vegetables every day?

Do you always ask permission to use the computer?

Do you share with your sister or brother?

Do you spend all of your money or give some of it to church?

Do you always wear a helmet when riding your bike?

Myself, I’m pretty knowledgeable about good nutrition and regular exercise, but sometimes I don’t make the wisest decisions. I’d rather have two pieces of cake—because I LOVE cake—than walk every day for exercise. I KNOW what I should do, but sometimes I don’t make the best decision.

Who knows what’s right for us? Parents? Teachers? God?

Did God give us any instructions? In the Bible?

Sometimes we know a lot, but don’t make good choices. We know what’s best, but we just don’t do it. Then there are some people who haven’t gone to a lot of school and may not think themselves very smart, but they are pretty wise and make good choices.

I’ve got candy for everyone—Smarties! But each of them have a slip of paper on them. It’s to remind you that KNOWLEDGE of God through the Bible can help you make WISE choices. We exist to glorify God, inviting all into a transforming relationship with Jesus Christ. So when you do something or say something, make sure it is a good choice that will glorify God.

Let’s pray: Dear Lord, Thank you for giving us the Bible. Help us to learn about Jesus and how to make good choices that will glorify You. In Jesus’ name we pray. AMEN