Day 13 — Where Wisdom Comes From

“For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.”

— Proverbs 2:6 (BSB)

As you grow up, you get to make more of your own choices. Who to hang out with. What to do with your money. What to do when your friends want to do something you know is wrong. What to do with your free time. What you’ll say yes to, and what you’ll say no to.

More freedom is great. But it means you need something really important: wisdom.

Wisdom isn’t the same as being smart. Plenty of smart guys make foolish choices. Wisdom is knowing how to live well: seeing situations the way God sees them, and choosing what’s right and good.

So where do you get it? Proverbs says: “The LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.”

Wisdom comes from God. He’s the source. And He’s happy to give it to anyone who asks.

Here’s how to grow in wisdom:

• Ask God. Before a big choice, pray: God, what’s the wise thing to do here?
• Read His Word. “From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” The Bible is where God speaks. Proverbs is full of wisdom for young men. It has 31 chapters, one for every day of the month.
• Listen to wise men. Your dad, grandpa, pastor, coach or youth leader have lived longer and learned a lot.
• Think ahead. Ask, Where will this choice lead? What will happen next?
• Learn from mistakes. Yours and other people’s.

This week, we’ll look at wise choices in some areas that matter a lot as you grow up: crushes, money, going along with the crowd, dares and danger, and keeping a pure heart.

Think about it: What’s a choice you’ll probably face in the next year that will need wisdom?

Try this: Read one chapter of Proverbs today. Try reading the chapter that matches today’s date!

Dear God, You are where wisdom comes from. Please give me wisdom for the choices I’m facing. Help me listen to Your Word and to wise people, and help me make choices that honor You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.