ICS Daily Devotions
The Word of Wisdom
1 Corinthians 12:8 for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit
The word of wisdom is a supernatural revelation of the divine purposes and plan in the mind or will of God that is “dropped” into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, and it always refers to future events. It is not acquired wisdom in the affairs of life which is nothing supernatural and is given to everyone who asks God for it, nor applied knowledge. Rather, it is a gift of the Holy Spirit.
Although God is omniscient, He can choose to reveal to us only a fragment of what He knows, and it can come in the form of a vision, dream, audible voice, knowing, “rhema” word, prophecy and or tongues with interpretation.
Acts 9:10-12,15 Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.”…. But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel.
The word of wisdom is different from the word of knowledge, though the two can work together as in this passage. God revealed to Ananias the address and person to minister to—present facts, and what Saul was doing and how he received a vision—past facts, so both are words of knowledge. When God told Ananias that Paul was His chosen vessel, that was a word of wisdom which relates to the future, revealing God’s plan and purpose for Paul’s life.
Although the word of wisdom reveals something to us, it is up to us how we respond. God may give us a warning to stop us from harm, or it can be a revelation of divine counsel—a supernatural insight into both the issue at hand and God’s Word to bring about a practical application or solution (Luke 21:13-14).
The Bible says that in the last days, God has poured out His Spirit on all flesh, so we can prophesy, see visions and dream dreams including operating in the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Let’s be open to the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives and be receptive to His work and prompting.
Sermon Series: CG Campaign – Spiritual Gifts Can Help Your Church Grow
