Understanding the Difference Between Figuring Things Out and Receiving Wisdom from God
Have you ever wondered why some things just “click” in life, while others take years to understand, no matter how hard you think about them? The Bible gives us a clue in Ephesians 1:17 (especially in the Amplified version), showing that there are different levels of wisdom—and that some kinds of wisdom come not just from reasoning or figuring things out, but as a revelation from God. Let’s break this down in simple terms. Paul prayed in Ephesians 1:17: “ [I always pray] that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may grant you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation [that gives you a deep and personal and intimate insight] into the true knowledge of Him [for we know the Father through the Son].
The Three Levels of Wisdom
- Wisdom of God’s Existence: This is the basic starting point—knowing that God exists. But it’s more than just believing there’s a God out there; it’s about understanding that the more you accept and grow in this wisdom, the more God reveals about who he is, who you are, who the people in your life are, and what roles you all play in this world. It’s like the curtain being pulled back a little more every time you take a step closer.
- 2. Wisdom of God’s Revelation: This next level is about receiving deeper insights directly from God. It’s not just about knowing facts, but about God dropping understanding into your heart. You start to see things in a new light—things you couldn’t figure out on your own, no matter how long you thought about them.
- 3. Wisdom of How to Do What God Wants: The third level is practical. It’s the wisdom to actually do what God wants you to do—the “how” behind the “what.” God doesn’t just give instructions; He gives wisdom so you’ll know the best way to carry them out. Think of it as getting both the map and the directions, not just the destination.
The Mindset Shift: Renewing Your Mind
The Bible says it all starts with the “renewing of the spirit of our minds.” What does that mean, really? It means changing the way we think—especially those deep-down thoughts we’re not always aware of (what some call the subconscious). God wants to stretch our thinking, to get us out of old patterns, and remove the limits we’ve placed on ourselves.
This isn’t about focusing on everything we’ve learned from the world or our own fears. It’s about allowing God to show us a new way of thinking. When we let Him do that, He helps us control our thoughts, and that’s when we’re able to step into a higher purpose for our lives. To do this, we have to stop being overly self-conscious and stop dwelling on negative or unhelpful thoughts. Instead, set your mind on what’s true—meditate on the good things God says about you.
It All Comes Down to “Knowing” God
The real key is getting to know God—not just knowing about Him, but really “seeing” and “perceiving” who He is. The more you know God as your Father and Creator, the steadier you’ll be. You won’t be thrown off course by every new challenge or opinion. You’ll stick to the path God has for you, and your life will reflect the results of your faith. That brings glory to God and gives you a deep sense of security.
Wisdom, Revelation, and Passing It On
But it’s not just about us—God wants us to pass this wisdom, revelation, and knowledge on to our children too. Proverbs 22:6 tells us to “train up a child in the way they should go.” God trains His children (that’s us!) by pointing our faith in the right direction: toward Him, His wisdom, and His revelation.
Receiving and Discerning God’s Wisdom
Sometimes, the wisdom of God might seem odd or even foolish to the world, just like Paul’s preaching did in 1 Corinthians 2. But for those who are open to receive it—who let the Holy Spirit light up their minds—it makes sense, and it changes everything. They’re able to see where the wisdom is coming from (the Source: God Himself), and they become wise in ways that can’t be explained by logic alone.
What Has God Already Done for Us?
God gives us wisdom to understand what He’s already done for us. It’s not just about hoping He’ll do something in the future, but recognizing that He’s already set us on the right course. The first thing God does is put us on track, as Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 3. Our job is to keep learning, growing, and trusting Him step by step.
A New Season of Knowing God
We’re living in a fresh season, where God wants us to come to know Him at a deeper level than ever before. As Romans 13:11 says, now is the time to wake up and pay attention to what God is doing. When we do, we’ll discover a level of wisdom, revelation, and purpose that far exceeds anything reasoning alone can provide.
So, don’t just try to figure everything out on your own. Open your heart for revelation, renew your mind, and get to know God personally. That’s where true wisdom begins—and it will change your life from the inside out.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 