The Word of Wisdom

Introducing the Gift The Word of Wisdom

As we continue our study of spiritual gifts, I will follow the same order as the Apostle Paul. In this chapter, we will explore the word of wisdom, a gift that falls under the category of revealing gifts. Alongside the word of knowledge and discerning of spirits, this gift is essential for the body of Christ to function effectively in a supernatural capacity.

Wisdom, in its simplest form, is knowledge applied. A word of wisdom is a snippet of God’s knowledge, supernaturally applied to a specific situation. These are not human or natural wisdom but wisdom divinely revealed by God. It is important to distinguish this gift from prophecy, as they serve different purposes. While prophecy often reveals the future, the word of wisdom focuses on applying divine insight to present circumstances.

This chapter will examine how Jesus and the early church operated in this gift and how it can function in the church today. We will also explore practical steps for recognizing and using this gift in our modern context.

What Is the Word of Wisdom?

The word of wisdom involves the supernatural application of God’s knowledge to solve a problem or address a situation. It is not merely human intellect or clever thinking but divine insight given by the Holy Spirit.

Characteristics of the Word of Wisdom

1. Supernatural Origin: It originates from the Holy Spirit, not from human reasoning.
2. Practical Application: It provides immediate, actionable insight for a specific issue.
3. Glorifies God: The gift always aligns with God’s purposes and brings Him glory.
4. Edifies Others: It is given to build up and benefit others, not to elevate oneself.

How Did Jesus Use the Word of Wisdom?

Paying the Temple Tax

In Matthew 17, Jesus used the word of wisdom to solve the problem of paying the temple tax:

“When they had come to Capernaum, those who received the temple tax came to Peter and said, ‘Does your Teacher not pay the temple tax?’ He said, ‘Yes.’ And when he had come into the house, Jesus anticipated him, saying, ‘What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth take customs or taxes, from their sons or from strangers?’ Peter said to Him, ‘From strangers.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Then the sons are free. Nevertheless, lest we offend them, go to the sea, cast in a hook, and take the fish that comes up first. And when you have opened its mouth, you will find a piece of money; take that and give it to them for Me and you.’” — Matthew 17:24-27 (NKJV)

Here, Jesus applied supernatural knowledge to instruct Peter to find a fish with a silver coin in its mouth to pay the tax. This was wisdom applied to solve a specific problem while avoiding unnecessary conflict.

Finding the Donkey for the Triumphal Entry

In Matthew 21, Jesus operated in the word of wisdom to prepare for His triumphal entry:

“Now when they drew near Jerusalem, and came to Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, ‘Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Loose them and bring them to Me. And if anyone says anything to you, you shall say, “The Lord has need of them,” and immediately he will send them.’” — Matthew 21:1-3 (NKJV)

Jesus revealed the location of the donkey and instructed the disciples on what to say. This applied knowledge fulfilled prophecy and solved the logistical challenge of securing the donkey.

The Word of Wisdom in the Early Church

Ananias Prays for Saul

In Acts 9, God gave Ananias a word of wisdom regarding Saul of Tarsus:

“Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, ‘Ananias.’ And he said, ‘Here I am, Lord.’ So the Lord said to him, ‘Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.’” — Acts 9:10-12 (NKJV)

God revealed Saul’s location and his need for prayer. Despite Ananias’s concerns, God assured him that Saul was a chosen vessel. Ananias obeyed, resulting in Saul’s healing and empowerment by the Holy Spirit.

Cornelius and Peter

In Acts 10, Cornelius received a vision instructing him to send for Peter:

“About the ninth hour of the day he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God coming in and saying to him, ‘Cornelius!’ And when he observed him, he was afraid, and said, ‘What is it, lord?’ So he said to him, ‘Your prayers and your alms have come up for a memorial before God. Now send men to Joppa, and send for Simon whose surname is Peter. He is lodging with Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea. He will tell you what you must do.’” — Acts 10:3-6 (NKJV)

Simultaneously, Peter received a vision preparing him to minister to Gentiles. The word of wisdom applied here involved Cornelius’s obedience to send for Peter and Peter’s openness to God’s direction. This led to a groundbreaking moment in church history where Gentiles were welcomed into the faith.

How the Word of Wisdom Operates Today

The word of wisdom can operate in various ways:

1. Personally: Guiding an individual’s decisions or actions in a specific situation.
2. For Others: Providing direction, encouragement, or resolution to someone else.
3. Corporately: Addressing issues within a church or organization.

The key is to remain open and not force the gift. All nine gifts of the Spirit operate as the Holy Spirit wills, not at our demand.

Practical Advice for Using the Word of Wisdom

Don’t Hyper-Spiritualize

God does not speak in King James English unless He’s talking to King James! Speak naturally and be yourself when sharing what God reveals.

Trust God’s Confirmation

If a word of wisdom is truly from God, the recipient will often recognize it as such without needing embellishment or pressure from you.

Be Humble

The gift is about serving others, not about showcasing spiritual abilities. Humility ensures that God receives the glory.

A Modern Example

Recently, I watched a movie about a man from India who operates powerfully in the gifts of the Spirit. God spoke to him to go to a parking lot at a Hindu temple to find a man with a gray beard wearing saffron robes. He obeyed and found the man, a Hindu Maharishi.

What the evangelist didn’t know was that the Maharishi had been given a dream by God to listen to the man in the parking lot. As a result, the Maharishi accepted Christ. This is a modern example of the word of wisdom operating to fulfill God’s purposes.

Everyday Examples

In a local church, a pastor may receive insight on how to address a conflict among members. A believer may receive guidance on a major life decision, such as changing careers or relocating. These everyday applications of the word of wisdom demonstrate its relevance and accessibility in daily life.

Conclusion

The word of wisdom is a supernatural application of knowledge that solves problems, provides direction, and fulfills God’s purposes. As with all gifts, don’t try to force it—simply remain open to God’s leading.

When the Holy Spirit gives you a word of wisdom, it will always align with God’s purposes and bring glory to Him. Trust that He will guide you as you step out in faith to operate in this powerful gift. Be willing to embrace this gift in both extraordinary and everyday situations, allowing God to work through you for His glory and the benefit of others.

How Does the Word of Knowledge Relate to the Word of Wisdom?

The word of knowledge and the word of wisdom are spiritual gifts that work together. Understanding the meaning of the word of knowledge helps in recognizing divine revelations, while wisdom applies them in practical situations. Knowledge provides insight, and wisdom ensures its proper use for guidance, decision-making, and spiritual growth.

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