Character Quality

By Ruth Schueller

WISDOM

Dictionary Definition: Knowing and doing what is true, right, or lasting.

Personal Definition: Having a broader perspective than the immediate moment or my own personal interests.

References: Job 12:12-13. Proverbs 2:1-5. James 1:5. Colossians 1:8.

Rewards: Wisdom will help you…

• Learn how to apply God’s principles of life to daily situations.
• Recognize cause-and-effect relationships in life.
• Contrast God’s principles with natural inclinations.

Practical Applications:

• Know, Do, & Dare in faith.
• View your life as God does.
• Jot down wise insights God gives you.
• Ask God for wisdom, and value it more than gold.

Documentary: In 1 Kings 12:1-24, young King Rehoboam failed to act wisely. Instead of listening to the old men who had advised his father (King Solomon), he listened to his peers. His bad decision resulted in drastic loss to his kingdom.

Rehoboam was focusing on the immediate subjection of his people, rather than a long-term relationship with them; and he focused on his own status rather than the good of his subjects. In this way he was self-centered and short-sighted, not wise.

Today I am a youth; it’s difficult to look five years down the road, let alone 25! Up to this time, I’ve used up a lot of educational resources to prepare me for productivity in society. Now as my sphere of influence increases I am responsible to be wise and invest in other people’s lives rather than being self-centered and short-sighted. John 12:24-26.

Ruth Schueller is a 16-year old home schooler from St. Cloud, Minnesota. She wrote us a letter suggesting a column that would feature a character quality each issue. We liked the idea so much we asked her to write it! As you can see, she’s done a terrific job. Look forward to more…there are 48 character qualities left!