What Young People Say about Wisdom
Wisdom is the much-coveted, broad and comprehensive intuition that rightly understands and skillfully applies truth, whether in human affairs, religious matters, or moral living. Although wisdom is often regarded as a trait of the aged, the Bible consistently presents it as a virtue that young people are to seek, learn, and display (Proverbs 1:1-7; Ecclesiastes 12:1-14). In fact, even at the tender age of 12, Jesus was already increasing “in wisdom… with God and men” (Luke 2:52; cf. v. 40). Here is what some of our young minds think about wisdom.
CF: What are some ways we can find wisdom?
“The simplest way we can find wisdom is by asking God for it. It’s straightforward and easy, just as God intended it to be. The Bible says in James 1:5 that God gives wisdom to those who ask in faith. We gain wisdom by reading and obeying the Word of God, especially the teachings of Jesus Christ. Spending time in prayer helps us know God and understand His will. Finally, seeking wise counsel from mature believers and learning from our experiences helps us grow in true wisdom.” —Marta
“One way to find wisdom is to look to and learn from our elders. People older than us naturally have more experience, knowledge, and wisdom than we do, and that is why God tells us, in many passages, to listen to older people for wisdom and instruction (Job 12:12; Proverbs 19:20; 23:22; 1 Peter 5:5). They can guide us and help us become stronger Christians and grow closer to the Lord.” —Ella
“We can find wisdom by learning from our mistakes. Since we are all human, we will do things that are not correct. I like the example of the young child who touches a hot stove. Once he touches the stove, he feels the pain and will not do it intentionally again to avoid the consequences. This applies to our walk with Christ. Through our mistakes, we can learn what to do better to follow God’s Word more closely. Also, through the trials and tribulations that we face (James 1:2-4), we can grow in strength and become closer to Him.” —Hayden
“One way we can find wisdom is by having a thoughtful attitude (Psalm 143:5). Everything we do, everywhere we go, everyone we meet… all of these are opportunities to learn. If we are constantly seeking to expand our knowledge, chances are we will find a way—maybe by listening to a podcast on the way to work or by having a conversation with a Christian at church. Simple things can make an impact on our minds. To be wise, we must want it. Desire and motivation are what get us closer to the goal.” —Kelsey
CF: What are some benefits of finding wisdom?
“Wisdom helps us protect ourselves. The one who can discern between good and evil can make the right choices. Wisdom is the correct usage of the knowledge we possess to find direction and assure our own spiritual well-being in life. Also, wisdom leads to praise and honor. Although we are not to seek the praise of men (Matthew 6:1), the exercise of godly wisdom will naturally result in the approval of the righteous. Certainly, God allows us to be honored in such a way (Luke 2:52).” —Melanie
“Since wisdom relates to the habit of thinking before speaking and acting, most likely we will have fewer problems with others due to hasty speech or actions. Wisdom also equips us to be better leaders. Many people covet leadership positions but lack the wisdom to fulfill them.” —Dylan
“In Proverbs, the book of wisdom, we learn that wisdom safeguards; it keeps us from mistakes, or, at least, it makes our mistakes less harmful. Proverbs 4 advises, ‘Do not forsake her [wisdom], and she will preserve you; love her, and she will keep you’ (v. 6). Acting judiciously and wisely means avoiding impulsive or emotional outbursts; that, in turn, will result in a more balanced character.
“A second benefit is virtue. Verses 14-18 contrast the path of wickedness with that of wisdom, showing a spiraling descent into darkness for those who choose wickedness, but a path of light, a way of virtue and righteousness, for those who stay true to wisdom.
“A final benefit of wisdom is found in verse 22; it is directly correlated to the previous two benefits: ‘For they are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh.’ This benefit is life, both in the physical sense (harkening back to the assurance referenced in verse 6) and in the spiritual sense (harkening back to the virtue referenced in verses 14-18). Wisdom enhances our life in the here and now and better equips us for eternity. It must be pursued constantly by all Christians, for they will be blessed as a result.” —Reese
Published in Christian Family 11.1 (2026): 12-13.
