30 Enlightening Bible Verses about Wisdom

In the 19th century, a man named William Wilberforce made it his life's mission to abolish the transatlantic slave trade, a cause that he pursued with unwavering determination. Wilberforce was a devout Christian, and his faith played a crucial role in inspiring and guiding his actions to put an end to this inhumane practice (Source: "Amazing Grace: William Wilberforce and the Heroic Campaign to End Slavery" by Eric Metaxas).

One scripture passage that had a significant impact on Wilberforce was Proverbs 31:8-9:

"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy."

This verse resonated deeply with Wilberforce, and it became the driving force behind his lifelong crusade against the slave trade. His dedication to the cause, rooted in the wisdom and guidance of the Bible, ultimately led to the passing of the Slavery Abolition Act in 1833, which abolished slavery throughout the British Empire.

William Wilberforce's life is a testament to the transformative power of biblical wisdom in shaping history and effecting positive change in the world. His inspiring example serves as the perfect introduction to this collection of 30 popular Bible verses about wisdom, providing readers with invaluable insight and guidance for their own lives.

Wisdom as a Gift from God

Proverbs 2:6

"For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding."

James 1:5

"If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."

1 Corinthians 1:30

"It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness, and redemption."

Isaiah 33:6

"He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure."

Ecclesiastes 2:26

"To the person who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge, and happiness."

Daniel 2:20-21

"Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning."

The Importance of Seeking Wisdom

Proverbs 3:13-14

"Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold."

Proverbs 16:16

"How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!"

Proverbs 4:7

"Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding."

Proverbs 8:11

"For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her."

Proverbs 19:20

"Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise."

Proverbs 24:14

"Know also that wisdom is like honey for you: If you find it, there is a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off."

Wisdom in Action

Proverbs 22:17-18

"Incline your ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply your heart to my knowledge, for it will be pleasant if you keep them within you, if all of them are ready on your lips."

Colossians 4:5

"Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time."

Ephesians 5:15-16

"Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil."

Proverbs 13:20

"Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm."

James 3:17

"But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere."

Proverbs 14:29

"Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly."

Wisdom and Humility

Proverbs 11:2

"When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom."

James 3:13

"Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom."

Proverbs 15:33

"Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the Lord, and humility comes before honor."

Proverbs 18:12

"Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor."

Micah 6:8

"He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."

1 Peter 5:5

"In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, 'God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'"

Wisdom and the Fear of the Lord

Proverbs 9:10

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."

Psalm 111:10

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever!"

Job 28:28

"And he said to the human race, 'The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding.'"

Proverbs 1:7

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction."

Proverbs 15:33

"The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom, and humility comes before honor."

Isaiah 11:2

"The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him—the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the LORD."

A Prayer for Wisdom

Heavenly Father,

I adore You for Your infinite wisdom, which You have displayed in the beauty of creation and the unfolding story of redemption. You are the author of all knowledge and truth, and Your wisdom surpasses all understanding.

I confess my own lack of wisdom and my tendency to rely on my own understanding instead of seeking Your guidance. Forgive me, Lord, for the times when I have been prideful and failed to acknowledge Your wisdom in my life.

I thank You for the gift of Your Word, which is a treasure trove of wisdom and guidance. I am grateful for the godly examples of those who have walked in wisdom before me, and for the Holy Spirit who leads me in truth.

I humbly come before You now, asking for the gift of wisdom. Grant me a discerning heart and a steadfast mind to navigate the complexities of life. Teach me to value Your wisdom above all else and to seek it diligently in Your Word and through prayer. Help me to walk in humility, knowing that true wisdom comes from You alone.

In every circumstance, may I be guided by Your wisdom and make decisions that honor You and bring glory to Your name. Through Your wisdom, may I be a light in this world, reflecting Your love and grace to others.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.