Wisdom is not knowledge, but knowledge enhances wisdom.

What?

Think about it this way: you might be the expert in your field – but that doesn’t mean you would be a competent leader. There’s a clear difference between knowledge and wisdom. When it comes to passing on the leadership torch to the next generation, understanding the difference is key.

Take a look at the life of Moses, one of the greatest leaders of all time. Even Moses had his flaws. As a result of his sin, Moses would not be allowed to reach the Promised Land. So, the Israelites needed a new leader: meet Joshua. This young man was described as being “filled with the Spirit of wisdom” (Deut. 34:9).  In other words, the Spirit of the Lord gave him great wisdom to step into this role.

Ok, but how do we make sure that as we acquire knowledge, we’re also growing in wisdom? The answer is to walk with God and stay in His Word. I like how The Message translates Proverbs 8:32-36 (emphasis mine):

“So, my dear friends, listen carefully; those who embrace these my ways are most blessed. Mark a life of discipline and live wisely; don’t squander your precious life. Blessed the man, blessed the woman, who listens to me, awake and ready for me each morning, alert and responsive as I start my day’s work. When you find me, you find life, real life, to say nothing of God’s good pleasure. But if you wrong me, you damage your very soul; When you reject me, you’re flirting with death.”

So whether you’re a seasoned leader like Moses, or a young Joshua learning to lead, there’s always more to learn as we walk with God.

Do as the Proverb says: listen, pay attention, be ready – and walk with God in order to walk in wisdom.

Written by Bryant Wright, Founder, RFTH