Why True Wisdom Matters, and How to Seek It
What Is Spiritual Ignorance?
Spiritual ignorance is not simply being unaware of religious facts or traditions. At its heart, it’s about missing out on a deeper understanding of life. We miss an understanding of ourselves and our purpose as taught by the Bible. It occurs when a person overlooks the wisdom that comes from God. They do not truly grasp it and often rely on their own limited thinking. People also depend on the shifting advice of society. In everyday terms, it’s the difference between having the “manual” for life and trying to assemble it with just guesswork.
Why Does Spiritual Ignorance Matter?
Imagine living in a house with locked doors, but never realizing that you have the key. Spiritual ignorance keeps us locked out from peace, contentment, and fulfillment that come with knowing God’s truth. According to the Bible, true understanding is like a never-ending wellspring—it refreshes, guides, and gives life. Without it, people can be successful on the surface, but inside, they may feel empty, restless, or lost.
How the Bible Describes Understanding
Biblical understanding isn’t just about smarts or intelligence; it’s a gift given by God. The Bible teaches that wisdom and understanding are treasures. To gain them requires humility. It also requires obedience and a willingness to listen and learn. Proverbs 4:7 sums it up: “With all your getting, get understanding.” In other words, no matter what you gather in life—money, status, or knowledge. Be sure to seek the insight to use those things well.
· Understanding comes from God: The Bible says that wisdom is not something we create on our own. It’s given when we ask for it with a humble heart.
· Humility is required: Those who think they know it all often miss God’s guidance. The more we admit we need help, the more open we are to learning.
· Obedience matters: Understanding grows when we follow God’s instructions. It’s not just about knowing what’s right; it’s about doing it.
· Reject self-reliance: Relying only on our own thinking can lead us astray. The Bible urges us to trust God’s bigger plan, even when we don’t see the whole picture.
Signs of Spiritual Ignorance
You are spiritually ignorant if you:
· Think you “know it all” and don’t need God’s help
· Only follow what feels good, without checking if it’s right
· Value worldly achievements (money, fame) over inner peace or goodness
· Find yourself stuck in confusion, anxiety, or dissatisfaction, despite having a lot
· Are closed off to advice, correction, or new understanding
The Bible warns that even if someone gains the whole world, they still miss out on true wisdom. Without wisdom, they are poor in the things that matter most.
How to Overcome Spiritual Ignorance
The good news is that no one has to stay spiritually ignorant. The Bible gives practical steps for anyone wanting to grow in understanding:
1. Acknowledge God’s Supremacy
Instead of thinking you have all the answers, recognize that God’s wisdom is far greater. Trust that God wants what’s best for you and sees things you can’t.
Layman’s Tip: When you’re unsure, pause and ask, “God, what do You want me to see?”
2. Humbly Ask for Understanding
Pray honestly, telling God you want to understand life, faith, and His plan. Admitting you don’t know everything is the first step to learning.
Layman’s Tip: “God, I need Your help. Give me wisdom to know what’s true and good.”
3. Be Attentive to God’s Words
Read the Bible with a listening heart. Don’t just scan the words—pay attention and ask what they mean for your life. God’s words bring light and clarity.
Layman’s Tip: Spend a few minutes each day reading Scripture, letting it sink in.
4. Fear the Lord (Show Respect)
“Fear” here doesn’t mean being scared, but having deep respect for God—knowing He’s in charge and His ways are best. The Bible says this attitude is the foundation for wisdom.
Layman’s Tip: Before making big decisions, ask, “Does this honor God?”
5. Depart from Evil
Understanding grows when you choose good over bad. The Bible teaches that leaving behind harmful behaviors opens the door for wisdom.
Layman’s Tip: If something feels “off” or wrong, step away. Seek advice from someone you trust.
6. Obey God’s Commandments
Obedience isn’t about adhering to rules for the sake of it—it’s about aligning your life with God’s best design. The more you practice what God says, the more you’ll understand His purpose.
Layman’s Tip: Start with small steps—be honest, kind, and fair in daily life.
What to Avoid
· Leaning Only on Human Understanding: Our minds are powerful, but limited. The Bible advises not to rely solely on our own ideas. God’s plan is far bigger than we can imagine.
· Pursuing Worldly Wisdom: Society often praises cleverness, ambition, or popularity. But the Bible calls this “foolishness” compared to God’s wisdom. Chasing these goals without understanding can lead to disappointment.
Practical Example
Suppose you’re deciding on a new job. Worldly wisdom tells you to pick the highest paycheck or most impressive title. Spiritual wisdom, still, looks deeper. It asks if the job fits your values. Does it help others? Does it align with God’s purpose for your life? True understanding helps you see beyond the surface.
The Real Value of Understanding
Proverbs 4:7 says, “With all your getting, get understanding.” This means that as you acquire things—money, experiences, achievements—don’t forget to seek wisdom. It’s not enough to stack up possessions or accolades if you don’t know how to use them well.
· Wise Stewardship: Understanding helps you manage your time, money, and relationships in ways that help you and others.
· Personal Growth: Real growth comes from learning, not just acquiring. It’s about becoming the person God made you to be.
· Life Management: Wisdom is like a GPS for life, guiding you through challenges and decisions. Without it, you risk getting lost or stuck.
Learning from Wise Teachers
The Bible encourages us to welcome instruction, even if it’s tough to hear. Good teachers—whether parents, pastors, or mentors—correct us because they care. Receiving guidance, even correction, is a sign of wisdom.
Layman’s Tip: When corrected, pause before reacting. Ask yourself, “Is there truth in this I can learn from?”
Consequences of Spiritual Ignorance
Without wisdom and understanding, the Bible says a soul is dead inside—not alive to God’s possibilities, hope, or love. People die rich and powerful. Still, if they never seek understanding or Christ’s salvation, they miss the true point of life.
The Path Ahead
The call to “get wisdom” is not just a religious motto—it’s a practical, life-enriching pursuit. Anyone can start, no matter their background or earlier choices. By seeking wisdom, we open up a path that avoids stumbling blocks. Welcoming correction helps us further. Trusting God leads us away from straitened places in life.
Simple Steps to Grow in Spiritual Understanding
· Admit you need wisdom
· Ask God for guidance daily
· Read and reflect on Scripture
· Listen to wise mentors and teachers
· Practice goodness and honesty
· Stay humble, always open to learning
Final Thoughts
Spiritual ignorance is not a permanent condition. The Bible assures us that wisdom is available to all who seek it with a sincere heart. Don’t settle for just “getting” things—aim for understanding, and let it shape every part of your life. The journey may require patience, humility, and faith. Yet, the rewards are lasting. They include peace, clarity, and a life well lived. This life is guided by the light of true wisdom.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 