Finding True Wisdom Through Humility and Dependence on God
Summary
In today's message, we explored the profound tension between the pursuit of wisdom and the apparent meaninglessness of life, as illustrated by the life of Solomon. Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, penned both Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, expressing the paradox of wisdom and meaning. We delved into how Solomon's life serves as a cautionary tale for those seeking success, highlighting the danger of becoming so wise that one ends up foolish. This paradox is rooted in the human tendency to seek knowledge and wisdom apart from God, leading to a life that feels empty and meaningless.
We examined the concept of "meology," a term coined to describe a self-centered approach to faith, where one's relationship with God is transactional and focused on personal desires and needs. This contrasts with "theology," which is centered on understanding and aligning with God's will. The story of Adam and Eve in Genesis was used to illustrate humanity's perpetual quest for wisdom outside of God's provision, leading to a cycle of dissatisfaction and disobedience.
The message challenged us to embrace humility and dependence on God, recognizing that true wisdom comes from Him. Solomon's initial humility and dependence on God brought prosperity and wisdom, but his later independence led to his downfall. We were encouraged to adopt a posture of humility, acknowledging our limitations and relying on God's wisdom rather than our own understanding.
Ultimately, the message called us to a deeper relationship with God, where we seek His wisdom and guidance in all aspects of life. By doing so, we can avoid the pitfalls of self-reliance and find true fulfillment and purpose in our walk with God.
Key Takeaways:
1. The Paradox of Wisdom and Meaninglessness: Solomon's life illustrates the tension between wisdom and meaninglessness. Despite his unparalleled wisdom, Solomon's later writings express a sense of futility, highlighting the danger of seeking wisdom apart from God. True wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord and leads to a life of purpose and fulfillment. [02:04]
2. The Danger of "Meology": A self-centered approach to faith, or "meology," focuses on personal desires and needs, leading to a transactional relationship with God. This contrasts with a healthy theology that centers on God's love, mercy, and grace, leading to obedience, repentance, and transformation. [08:00]
3. Embracing Humility and Dependence: Humility and dependence on God are essential for true wisdom. Solomon's initial humility brought prosperity, but his later independence led to his downfall. Embracing humility allows us to rely on God's wisdom and guidance, leading to a life of purpose and fulfillment. [23:05]
4. The Pursuit of Wisdom in a Distracted World: In a world inundated with information, it's easy to seek wisdom from sources other than God. However, true wisdom comes from God and leads us closer to Him. We must be intentional about seeking God's wisdom and not be swayed by the distractions of the world. [36:48]
5. The Call to a Deeper Relationship with God: Our ultimate fulfillment and purpose come from a deep relationship with God. By seeking His wisdom and guidance, we can avoid the pitfalls of self-reliance and find true meaning in our walk with God. This requires a commitment to humility, dependence, and a high view of God. [49:06]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [02:04] - The Paradox of Wisdom and Meaninglessness
- [04:14] - The Challenge of Embracing Silence
- [08:00] - Understanding "Meology"
- [10:13] - The Craving for Wisdom and Knowledge
- [17:45] - The Subtlety of the Serpent
- [20:26] - Solomon's Humility and God's Promise
- [23:05] - The Power of "I Don't Know"
- [25:57] - God's Covenant with Solomon
- [34:37] - Solomon's Downfall and Independence
- [36:48] - The Importance of Dependence on God
- [39:22] - Meology vs. Theology
- [42:04] - The Problem with Consumeristic Christianity
- [49:06] - The Foolishness of the Cross
- [51:20] - The Wonder of God's Wisdom
- [53:51] - Invitation to a Deeper Relationship with God
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. Proverbs 9:10 - "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."
2. Ecclesiastes 1:1-2 - "The words of the Teacher, son of David, king in Jerusalem: 'Meaningless! Meaningless!' says the Teacher. 'Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless.'"
3. Genesis 3:4-6 - "You will not certainly die," the serpent said to the woman. "For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil."
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Observation Questions:
1. What does Proverbs 9:10 suggest about the relationship between wisdom and the fear of the Lord? How does this contrast with Solomon's later view in Ecclesiastes? [02:04]
2. In Genesis 3:4-6, what was the serpent's argument to Eve, and how did it challenge her understanding of wisdom and God's command? [10:13]
3. How does the sermon describe the concept of "meology," and how does it differ from a healthy theology? [08:00]
4. What was Solomon's initial request from God when he became king, and how did this reflect his humility and dependence on God? [23:05]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the paradox of wisdom and meaninglessness in Solomon's writings reflect the human struggle with understanding life's purpose? [02:04]
2. In what ways does the story of Adam and Eve illustrate the dangers of seeking wisdom apart from God? How does this relate to the concept of "meology"? [10:13]
3. How does the sermon suggest that humility and dependence on God lead to true wisdom and fulfillment? [23:05]
4. What are the potential consequences of living a life focused on "meology" rather than a God-centered theology, according to the sermon? [08:00]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you sought wisdom or knowledge apart from God. How did that impact your sense of purpose and fulfillment? What steps can you take to seek God's wisdom more intentionally? [36:48]
2. Consider your current approach to faith. Are there aspects of "meology" present in your relationship with God? How can you shift towards a more God-centered theology? [08:00]
3. How can you cultivate a posture of humility and dependence on God in your daily life? Identify one area where you can practice saying "I don't know" and rely on God's guidance. [23:05]
4. In what ways do you find yourself distracted by the world's wisdom? What practical steps can you take to prioritize seeking God's wisdom in your life? [36:48]
5. Think about your relationship with God. How can you deepen this relationship to avoid the pitfalls of self-reliance and find true meaning? What specific actions can you take this week to strengthen your connection with God? [49:06]
6. Reflect on the story of Solomon. How can his life serve as a cautionary tale for you in your pursuit of success and wisdom? What lessons can you apply to your own life to avoid similar pitfalls? [34:37]
7. Identify one area in your life where you feel a sense of meaninglessness. How can you invite God's wisdom into that area to find purpose and fulfillment? [02:04]
Devotional
Day 1: The Paradox of Wisdom and Meaninglessness
Solomon's life is a profound illustration of the tension between wisdom and meaninglessness. Despite being the wisest man who ever lived, Solomon's later writings, particularly in Ecclesiastes, express a deep sense of futility and emptiness. This paradox highlights the danger of seeking wisdom apart from God. True wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord and leads to a life of purpose and fulfillment. Solomon's story serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us that wisdom without God can lead to a life that feels empty and devoid of meaning. [02:04]
"For in much wisdom is much vexation, and he who increases knowledge increases sorrow." (Ecclesiastes 1:18, ESV)
Reflection: In what areas of your life are you seeking wisdom apart from God, and how can you begin to realign your pursuit of wisdom with a reverence for Him today?
Day 2: The Danger of "Meology"
"Meology" is a term used to describe a self-centered approach to faith, where one's relationship with God is transactional and focused on personal desires and needs. This contrasts with a healthy theology that centers on God's love, mercy, and grace, leading to obedience, repentance, and transformation. The story of Adam and Eve in Genesis illustrates humanity's perpetual quest for wisdom outside of God's provision, leading to a cycle of dissatisfaction and disobedience. By focusing on "meology," we risk missing the transformative power of a true relationship with God. [08:00]
"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." (Romans 12:2, ESV)
Reflection: How can you shift your focus from a transactional relationship with God to one that seeks His will and transformation in your life?
Day 3: Embracing Humility and Dependence
Humility and dependence on God are essential for true wisdom. Solomon's initial humility and dependence on God brought prosperity and wisdom, but his later independence led to his downfall. Embracing humility allows us to rely on God's wisdom and guidance, leading to a life of purpose and fulfillment. By acknowledging our limitations and relying on God's wisdom rather than our own understanding, we can avoid the pitfalls of self-reliance and find true meaning in our walk with God. [23:05]
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6, ESV)
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you struggle to rely on God's wisdom? How can you practice humility and dependence on Him in that area today?
Day 4: The Pursuit of Wisdom in a Distracted World
In a world inundated with information, it's easy to seek wisdom from sources other than God. However, true wisdom comes from God and leads us closer to Him. We must be intentional about seeking God's wisdom and not be swayed by the distractions of the world. By focusing on God's wisdom, we can navigate the complexities of life with clarity and purpose, avoiding the confusion and chaos that often accompany worldly wisdom. [36:48]
"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." (James 1:5, ESV)
Reflection: What distractions in your life are preventing you from seeking God's wisdom? How can you create space in your daily routine to intentionally seek His guidance?
Day 5: The Call to a Deeper Relationship with God
Our ultimate fulfillment and purpose come from a deep relationship with God. By seeking His wisdom and guidance, we can avoid the pitfalls of self-reliance and find true meaning in our walk with God. This requires a commitment to humility, dependence, and a high view of God. A deeper relationship with God transforms our lives, leading to a sense of peace and purpose that transcends the challenges and uncertainties of life. [49:06]
"And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent." (John 17:3, ESV)
Reflection: What steps can you take today to deepen your relationship with God and seek His wisdom in every aspect of your life?
Quotes
"It's crazy how uncomfortable we've become and we've been conditioned to become with the unknown. We've lost the art of wonder. We've lost the art of mystery. And so in moments like this, just even for 30 seconds, y 'all didn't even last a full minute, 8 .30 at least lasted a minute." [00:00:25]
"How do you go from a place where in Proverbs 9, you say the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding, and through wisdom your days will be many, and years will be added to your life. To a clear... Ecclesiastes, just one book over, the next book he writes, he then says, everything is meaningless." [00:02:37]
"How do we live in the tension of pursuing wisdom in a seemingly meaningless life if all we do is just consume wisdom, if all we do is consume information? How do we avoid becoming like the wisest man who ever lived, who essentially was so smart, he ended up stupid?" [00:03:09]
"I want to challenge you to think of you choosing to not scroll through this sermon, but to sit and turn on your mind. Because oftentimes we come to church hoping we feel different when we leave, but that isn't feeling different doesn't actually equate to being different." [00:04:52]
"Because you can come in, sing the songs, get the best message I've ever preached, feel good, and then you're Monday, you're still a terrible individual. And your situation doesn't change because you treat the word of God the same way you treat Fox News or CNN, just information that you pick and choose what applies to you." [00:05:20]
"And I want us to carry the word of God with weight. I want us to lean in. And I want us to choose to turn our minds on. Jesus says, love the Lord God with all your heart, which a lot of us can do. All of our soul, that's how we feel it." [00:05:43]
"Going back to Solomon, how we started off, I think Solomon is a beautiful example or a heartbreaking one, however you want to look at it. Because in the beginning, Solomon starts off by depending on God. He gets entrusted with the kingdom from his father, David." [00:19:26]
"What if we embraced the humility and the dependence like Solomon of saying, I don't know, because the moment you empty of yourself of the pride of saying, well, I got to know, or I'm 55 at this age. I should have more answers than that. You've never been 55 before." [00:24:08]
"I don't know insinuates that you recognize the fragility and the limitation of who you are, but it gives an opportunity for you to depend on someone who is greater than you, who is wiser than you, who has more access than you. And you can say, I don't know, but I know who does." [00:24:35]
"However, in our wisdom in Solomon's wisdom he attained all this wealth because God's promise was faithful and all people from all over the world started to come to Solomon for advice the queen of Sheba came to Solomon for advice she it's notated both in first kings and first chronicles the queen of Sheba shows up and is in she's blown away by the wisdom of Solomon and brings him all these gifts and all these things and something interesting happens the conversation I showed you in first chronicles happened when God when when Solomon finished building the temple you" [00:31:05]
"for God but something happens in chapters after that to where all the gold that Solomon receives all the praise that Solomon receives he stops building temples and starts building thrones he's he all of a sudden starts using the gold to make a a gold steps for his throne and to build giant lions made of gold for his for his chair for his armrest and all of a sudden something shifts to where the people from all over are coming to hear his god -given wisdom but then he wants to go back like wait wait where you come from and the bible says that solomon in all his wisdom he had a weak spot i think he got it from his dad if he saw a baddie he couldn't help and the bible says read it for yourself that solomon loved many beautiful women from all over the world and so he starts to chase women from all these foreign nations even though god said hey i need you to stay i need you to stay committed to the people of israel i don't want you bringing outside voices outside idols into my holy place and solomon has 300 wives and 300 side chicks read the bible concubine side chick whatever" [00:31:45]
"And the bible says that they came with all their idols with they brought their own apples they're like oh yeah yeah we this is how we do it in our country this is what works for our society this is what we do and the bible says that they brought their own idols and the bible says that solomon not just allowed it he started to condone it he found himself participating in it but he's still the smartest person in the room he he he he's still the guy that everybody's depending on he's still the guy that everybody's going to for advice but all of a sudden his heart has shifted because he's gotten used to being the source he forgot he was just a resource he he forgot i'm supposed to just be the person whose god's given wisdom so i can bring his people closer to him but now i just want them to see me and now i'm not feeling fulfilled because no matter how many women i get with i'm not i'm not satisfied i've been to sheba ethiopia eurasia it don't matter and i'm not i'm not satisfied i i i got i got horses i got cattle i got i got crypto i got gold and i'm not satisfied and then he gets to this point in his life where the smartest man in the world the richest man in the world the dude with more baby mamas than anybody in the world he says everything is meaningless everything but hold on the rest of the world is trying to be like you right now you set the standard now all the men in israel they're also bringing in foreign wives because they're like i want to be like like" [00:33:02]
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