How to gain wisdom

“Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future.” (Prov. 19:20 ESV)

The late, great actor John Wayne is credited with saying, "You can't fix stupid!" He had probably observed that some people, no matter their level of education, consistently make unwise decisions that cannot be remedied. The issue lies not in their knowledge or education but in their ability to make sound judgments. Wise individuals consistently avoid foolish behavior, relying on good sense over mere knowledge. According to the Bible, obtaining wisdom is the most important thing to obtain: “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom: and with all thy getting, get understanding.” (KJV Prov. 4:7)

John Wayne was correct, in saying that you “cannot fix stupid,” in other people, but the good news is that you can gain wisdom for yourself with God’s help by asking Him for it and by studying and applying His Word to things and by surrounding yourself with wise counselors.

God gives wisdom to those who ask Him 

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.

There is victory in the abundance of counselors 

“For by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in abundance of counselors there is victory.” (Prov. 24:6 ESV) 

“Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” (Prov. 11:14 ESV)

Fools do not take advice

“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.” (Prov. 12:15 ESV)

“By insolence comes nothing but strife, but with those who take advice is wisdom.” (Prov. 13:10 ESV) 

Therefore

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” (Matt. 7:24)