Wisdom is a virtue that we should all strive to get. But what does it actually mean to be wise?
Often, wisdom seems like an elusive quality reserved only for the enlightened gurus and philosophers of the world.
However, the Bible provides profound insight into true wisdom through the example of small creatures.
By examining the traits of the spider, locust, conies, and ant, we can learn key lessons that reflect the characteristics of a truly wise person.
1. The Quiet Strength of the Spider
The spider is a master of stillness and patience. Without making a sound, it steadily constructs its web in the highest corner of a room, positioning itself in lofty places away from the busyness below.
Wise people understand the power of operating quietly and climbing to a higher perspective.
They don’t need to shout to be heard, but let their actions speak for themselves. The Book of Proverbs says,
“Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.”
Proverbs 17:28 (KJV)
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Wise people know when to speak and when to remain silent. They filter their thoughts and words to determine what truly needs to be said versus what is best left unsaid.
The Book of James notes,
“Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.”
James 1:26 (NIV)
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Additionally, the spider builds resilience (the ability to withstand adversity and bounce back from difficult life events) by steadily reconstructing its web if it is torn down. It does not get discouraged or abandon its mission.
Wise people display this same behavior in the face of opposition. They have mastered the art of grit.
3 Key Lessons from the Spider:
- Operate quietly; don’t constantly seek attention.
- Position yourself in higher places, both literally and figuratively.
- Build resilience and persist in the face of adversity.
2. The Collective Power of the Locust
Locusts understand strength in numbers. By banding and swarming together, they can accomplish feats far beyond the capacity of any individual locust. Their unity multiplies their influence.
Wise people recognize that there is power in togetherness. Just as strands woven together form a rope much stronger than a single thread, unity with others creates strength.
The Bible emphasizes this in Ecclesiastes 4:9–12 (NIV), noting that a “cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
“9 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: 10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. 11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? 12 Though one may be overpowered,
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two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
Division, on the other hand, weakens you. Wise people avoid sowing discord or participating in petty disagreements that shatter relationships.
They understand that some of the greatest damage can be inflicted from within. Jesus taught in Mark 3:25 (NIV),
“ If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand.”
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3 Key Lessons from the Locust:
- Recognize the power of collective effort.
- Encourage unity and avoid unnecessary division.
- Team up with others to accomplish more.
3. The Sturdy Foundations of the Conies
Conies, a species similar to rabbits, are renowned for their ability to build their lodgings on solid rock.
They are fragile creatures, yet they have adapted to build upon the most stable and secure foundations.
Similarly, a wise person will build his or her life on a firm foundation that can weather any storm. Jesus taught in Matthew 7:24–25 (ESV) that the wise man,
“Built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.”
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This unshakable rock is the Word of God. Wise people base their choices, relationships, and priorities on scriptural truth that remains steady despite changing circumstances.
They understand that all else may crumble and fade, but God’s Word endures forever.
3 Key Lessons from the Conies:
- Build your life upon the solid rock of God’s Word.
- Make your choices, relationships, and values upon eternal truth.
- Anchor yourself to foundations that will endure any storm.
4. The Forward-Thinking Ant
Ants are famous for their preparation and foresight. Long before the rigors of winter arrive, they diligently store up food during seasons of abundance.
This wisdom and thriftiness provide sustenance exactly when needed.
Similarly, wise people plan ahead and steward resources well in the present to thrive in the future. They understand that time is fleeting, seasons change, and waste leads to want.
King David the Psalmist wrote in Psalm 39:4-5 (NIV),
“4 “Show me, Lord, my life’s end
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and the number of my days;
let me know how fleeting my life is.
5 You have made my days a mere handbreadth;
the span of my years is as nothing before you.
Everyone is but a breath,
even those who seem secure.”
Wise people, therefore, make the most of each moment. They invest in efforts that bear fruit down the road. With eternity in view, they strive to walk in wisdom now.
3 Key Lessons from the Ant:
- Steward time and resources wisely in the present moment.
- Plan ahead and prepare for future seasons and needs.
- Make the most of every day, recognizing that life is fleeting.
Key Takeaways About Wisdom
The examples of the spider, locust, conies, and ant provide profound insights into the characteristics of wise people. Here are some key takeaways:
1. Operate with quiet strength. Avoid impulsiveness, filter your speech, and let actions speak louder than words. Place yourself in higher vantage points, both literally and figuratively.
2. Promote unity. Recognize that we go further together. Avoid division and petty disagreements. Team up together to accomplish common goals.
3. Build upon firm foundations. Build your life on God’s eternal Word. Let your choices and values stem from biblical truth. Anchor yourself to that which endures.
4. Steward time and resources. Make the most of each fleeting day. Plan ahead and prepare for future seasons. Invest wisely today for a better tomorrow.
Getting wisdom is a lifelong pursuit:
- Surround yourself with wise mentors.
- Study scripture.
- Learn from your mistakes.
- Seek God wholeheartedly.
The reward is a life firmly planted by streams of wisdom that will stand firm through every storm.
Final Thoughts
Gaining wisdom is a worthy quest. By walking in the footsteps of the wise who have gone before us, we can steadily grow in discernment and understanding.
Wisdom illuminates our path through life’s complexities and positions us to thrive each step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wise People
Q. What are the key traits that define wise people?
A. Some defining traits of wise people include humility, patience, good listening skills, self-awareness, discernment, curiosity to keep learning, and compassion.
Q. What perspective do wise people have?
A. Wise people understand the bigger picture and can see far into the future. They have mastery over their egos and realize how much they don’t know. They are always learning.
Q. How do wise people make better decisions?
A. Wise people take time to carefully analyze decisions from multiple angles. They seek wise counsel, research diligently, and weigh options thoroughly before deciding. They think long-term.
Q. How can I become a wiser person?
A. To become wiser: study scripture, meditate on scripture, read widely, spend time self-reflecting, analyze your mistakes, surround yourself with mentors, be humble, be quick to listen, and slow to speak. Wisdom is a lifelong pursuit.
Q. Why is wisdom so important?
A. Wisdom allows us to navigate life well and make choices that yield good fruit. It safeguards us from foolishness and teaches us to number our days. Wisdom leads to abundant living aligned with God’s truth.
