My life has impact to the extent that I’m wise, according to Proverbs 24.5. Thus, knowledge alone isn’t power. Whereas, being wise is true power.
The Precept Explained
Now, you’ve heard that knowledge is power. Conversely, a little knowledge is a dangerous thing!
So, maybe knowledge isn’t all that powerful after all!
Actually, factual knowledge becomes powerful in my life when it’s combine with experiential insight.
Then, I become wise! As such, being wise is true power.
Hence, Proverbs 24.5, which speaks to the impact from continual learning because the wise are continual learners.
The wise multiply their factual knowledge and insight about the precepts through continual learning.
Therefore, I grow my knowledge and combine it with insight. Then, I see that wisdom multiply through my life to make me wise.
The wise multiply their learning, thus they get wiser! Proverbs 9.9 paraphrase
Being Wise
Being wise is a character trait that can be enhanced. However, being wise isn’t about being smart or about how much factual knowledge I have.
Instead, being wise is a state of my character. Thus, the repeated uses in scripture of the phrase wise-hearted. For example, read Proverbs 10.8.
To become wise-hearted, I should listen and learn, Proverbs 1.5 and Proverbs 9.9.
Moreover, being wise is associated with other, beneficial traits, such as:
1). Discernment, like Joseph, in Genesis 41.33 and 41.39. And Solomon, First Kings 3.12. See also Proverbs 16.21.
2). Experiential insight, Exodus 36.1, that brings with it practical skills, Exodus 35.10.
3). Critical thinking, Ecclesiastes 8.5.
Clearly, the wise possess wisdom. Most simply, wisdom is what I know combined with what I can do with what I know.
Being wise is a companion of traits like discernment, critical thinking, and experiential insight.
Get Wisdom
I get wisdom by being told, by observation, by reflection, and through careful study.
In short, a wise character is the outcome of intentionally pulling wisdom into my life. Thus, I become wise-hearted by soaking up the precepts, Proverbs 10.8.
I build a wise character by intentionally taking to heart the precepts. Hence, being wise is an outcome of knowing wisdom!
Leadership Insight
There are any number of ways to grow my impact as a leader. Most notably, clear thinking, decisiveness, and high productivity.
But, other impact enhancers include discernment, a just character, kindness, and treating everyone fairly.
The focus verse in this post says continual learning brings power, hence makes me a more impactful leader.
To be clear, this power isn’t positional. And, it’s not unchecked like an arrogant politician. Or, a business founder who has never been challenged.
So, to enhance my impact as a leader, I learn continually. Also, I’m discerning about the sources I accept. Then, I find practical ways to plug that learning into my areas of responsibility.
Apply This Today!
Knowledge isn’t power.
Instead, being wise is true power. However, that’s valid only if I’m willing to continually learn from sources that tell the truth.
A wise character is a deliberate choice I make. And, getting there is a life-long process.
What do you think? Send me a comment: larrydaleyoung@gmail.com