Living in Grace: Embracing Wisdom and the Spirit

Summary

Today, we gathered to remember and celebrate the work of Jesus—His creation, His sacrifice, and the new life He offers through the new covenant. Communion is a powerful reminder that Jesus gave His body and shed His blood as the perfect, once-and-for-all sacrifice, fulfilling what the old system of continual animal sacrifices could never accomplish. This act of grace means we are not endlessly striving to earn forgiveness; instead, we live in the confidence that God’s love and forgiveness are already ours. This truth compels us to gratitude and a deeper desire to walk in relationship with Him.

Jesus promised us the Holy Spirit, our Advocate, who stirs awe, obedience, and encouragement within us. The Spirit’s work is often unpredictable and doesn’t always fit our expectations, but He is always for us, drawing us into a deeper relationship with Jesus. Our response to His leading should be simple: say “yes” and follow, rather than hesitating or trying to fit God’s wisdom into our own plans. Too often, we complicate faith with rules and self-reliance, but true wisdom is found in listening to God and acting on what He says.

Proverbs 3 teaches us that wisdom is not just knowledge but action—obedience, discovery, security, and relationships. Obedience means storing up God’s word, trusting Him completely, and accepting His correction. Discovery is the ongoing pursuit of wisdom, which is more valuable than anything else and leads to deep, lasting joy. Security comes from living in alignment with God’s wisdom, granting us peace and protection that the world cannot offer. Finally, wisdom transforms our relationships, calling us to generosity, peace, contentment, and humility.

We are invited to continually seek God’s wisdom, not just for ourselves but for the sake of others. This means being disciplined in learning, open to correction, and quick to act in love. As we do, our lives become a testimony to the goodness and faithfulness of God, bearing fruit that honors Him and blesses those around us.

Key Takeaways

- The finished work of Jesus means we no longer strive for forgiveness but live from a place of acceptance and grace. Our “I’m sorry” is not a plea for God to act, but a response to what He has already accomplished. This transforms repentance from a burden into a grateful acknowledgment of His unchanging love. [22:11]

- The Holy Spirit is our Advocate, not a taskmaster. He works in ways that often disrupt our plans, but always with the goal of drawing us closer to Jesus. Our role is to say “yes” to His leading, even when it feels uncomfortable or unexpected, trusting that His wisdom is always ahead of us. [35:26]

- True wisdom is not passive; it requires action. Storing up God’s word, trusting Him beyond our own understanding, and welcoming His correction are disciplines that shape our character and decisions. Wisdom in action is the difference between a life of fruitfulness and one of frustration. [56:19]

- Wisdom is life’s greatest treasure, more valuable than any possession or achievement. It brings deep, lasting joy and satisfaction that cannot be found in temporary pleasures or self-made plans. Seeking wisdom is a lifelong pursuit, and God generously gives it to those who ask without shame or hesitation. [01:08:58]

- The evidence of wisdom is seen most clearly in our relationships. Generosity, peace, contentment, and humility are the marks of a life shaped by God’s wisdom. When we treat others with kindness and grace, even when it’s inconvenient or undeserved, we reflect the heart of Christ and participate in His redemptive work. [01:13:12]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[01:00] - Communion: Remembering Christ’s Sacrifice
[07:30] - The New Covenant and the Meaning of Communion
[13:00] - The Gift of the Holy Spirit
[22:11] - Inviting the Holy Spirit’s Work
[25:02] - Worship and Personal Reflection
[29:00] - The Unpredictable Work of the Holy Spirit
[35:26] - The Simplicity of Saying Yes to Jesus
[38:49] - Wisdom in Action: Proverbs 3
[46:00] - Obedience: Trust and Obey
[56:19] - Trusting God Completely
[58:56] - Welcoming Correction
[01:08:58] - Wisdom as Life’s Greatest Treasure
[01:09:48] - Wisdom and Security
[01:13:12] - Wisdom in Relationships
[01:18:00] - Closing Prayer and Blessing
[01:20:00] - Community Thanks and Announcements

Study Guide

Small Group Bible Study Guide: Wisdom in Action

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### Bible Reading

Primary Text:
Proverbs 3:1-35
(If time is limited, focus on verses 1-18 and 21-35)

Additional Passages:
- John 14:16-17, 26 (Jesus promises the Holy Spirit, our Advocate)
- James 1:5, 22 (“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God… But be doers of the word, and not hearers only…”)

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### Observation Questions

1. In Proverbs 3, what are some of the specific actions or attitudes that are called “wise”? (Look for words like “trust,” “store up,” “accept correction,” “be generous,” etc.)
2. According to John 14, what is the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer?
3. In the sermon, what was the difference described between the old system of sacrifices and what Jesus accomplished for us? [[22:11]]
4. What are some of the promises or results listed in Proverbs 3 for those who walk in God’s wisdom? (Look for words like “peace,” “security,” “joy,” “favor,” etc.)

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why does Proverbs 3 connect wisdom so closely with action and obedience, rather than just knowledge? How does this challenge the way people often think about “being wise”? [[38:49]]
2. The sermon said, “The Holy Spirit is our Advocate, not a taskmaster.” What does it mean for the Spirit to be “for us,” and how is that different from just following rules? [[35:26]]
3. The pastor described repentance as a grateful response to what Jesus has already done, not a way to earn God’s forgiveness. How does this change the way someone might approach God after they’ve messed up? [[22:11]]
4. Proverbs 3 says wisdom is “more precious than rubies” and “nothing you desire can compare with her.” Why do you think wisdom is described as life’s greatest treasure? [[01:08:58]]

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### Application Questions

1. The sermon challenged us to “say yes” to the Holy Spirit’s leading, even when it’s uncomfortable or doesn’t fit our plans. Can you think of a recent time when you sensed God nudging you to do something? Did you say yes or hesitate? What happened? [[35:26]]
2. Proverbs 3 calls us to “trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not depend on your own understanding.” What is one area of your life right now where you find it hard to trust God’s wisdom over your own? What would it look like to take a step of trust this week? [[56:19]]
3. The pastor said, “True wisdom is not passive; it requires action.” Is there a specific command or teaching from God’s Word that you know, but have been slow to act on? What’s holding you back? [[38:49]]
4. The sermon talked about welcoming correction as a sign of wisdom. How do you usually respond when someone points out something you need to change? Is there a recent example where you could have responded differently? [[58:56]]
5. Wisdom shows up in our relationships—through generosity, peace, contentment, and humility. Think of a relationship in your life that could use more of God’s wisdom. What is one practical way you could show generosity, seek peace, or practice humility with that person this week? [[01:13:12]]
6. The pastor said, “We are not endlessly striving to earn forgiveness; instead, we live in the confidence that God’s love and forgiveness are already ours.” How does this truth affect the way you pray, worship, or relate to God on a daily basis? [[22:11]]
7. Proverbs 3 encourages us to keep learning and seeking wisdom. What is one new spiritual discipline or habit you could start (or restart) this month to help you grow in wisdom? Who could you invite to help keep you accountable? [[38:49]]

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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Pray Colossians 1:9-10 over the group, asking God to fill each person with wisdom and understanding so that their lives would honor Him and bear good fruit.

Devotional

Day 1: Wisdom in Obedience—Trust and Obey God Fully
True wisdom is shown by our willingness to trust God’s guidance and obey His commands, even when it challenges our own understanding or comfort. Obedience is not about following a list of rules, but about a relationship of trust—believing that God’s way leads to the deepest joy, peace, and satisfaction. When we store up God’s word in our hearts and seek His will in all we do, we experience a life that is fruitful and blessed, not because of our own efforts, but because we are aligned with the One who knows the way ahead. The call is simple: listen to Jesus and say “yes,” even before you know what He will ask. [56:19]

Proverbs 3:1-12 (ESV)
My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments, for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man. 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. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones. Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine. My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the Lord reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights.

Reflection: What is one area where you’ve been hesitant to trust and obey God? What would it look like to say “yes” to Him today, even before you know all the details?

Day 2: Wisdom is Life’s Greatest Treasure—Seek and Value It Above All
Wisdom is not just something to be followed, but something to be actively sought after and treasured above all earthly riches. The pursuit of wisdom leads to true joy, satisfaction, and a life that is guided by God’s understanding rather than fleeting happiness or material gain. When you seek wisdom first from the Lord, you discover that it is more precious than silver, gold, or rubies, and it brings delight, guidance, and meaning to every area of life. The more you embrace God’s wisdom, the more you realize its value increases with time, shaping your life into something beautiful and lasting. [01:08:58]

Proverbs 3:13-20 (ESV)
Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding, for the gain from her is better than gain from silver and her profit better than gold. She is more precious than jewels, and nothing you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her; those who hold her fast are called blessed. The Lord by wisdom founded the earth; by understanding he established the heavens; by his knowledge the deeps broke open, and the clouds drop down the dew.

Reflection: Where are you tempted to seek fulfillment or security apart from God’s wisdom? How can you intentionally pursue wisdom from the Lord today?

Day 3: Wisdom Brings Security—Rest in God’s Protection
Living according to God’s wisdom brings a security that nothing else can offer—physical, emotional, and spiritual. When you hold on to discernment and common sense, you are kept safe from many pitfalls, and you can rest without fear, knowing that the Lord Himself is your security. This peace is not dependent on circumstances, resources, or your own strength, but on the unchanging faithfulness of God who watches over you. Even in a world full of uncertainty, you can lie down and sleep in peace, trusting that God alone keeps you safe. [01:12:04]

Proverbs 3:21-26 (ESV)
My son, do not lose sight of these—keep sound wisdom and discretion, and they will be life for your soul and adornment for your neck. Then you will walk on your way securely, and your foot will not stumble. If you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Do not be afraid of sudden terror or of the ruin of the wicked, when it comes, for the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught.

Reflection: What anxieties or fears are keeping you from resting in God’s security? How can you bring these to Him and trust His protection tonight?

Day 4: Wisdom in Relationships—Let God’s Wisdom Shape How You Treat Others
The way you treat others reveals whether you are living by God’s wisdom or your own. True wisdom is seen in generosity, peacemaking, contentment, and humility—choosing to do good when you have the power, seeking peace instead of conflict, being content without envy, and walking in humility rather than pride. These qualities reflect the very character of Jesus and invite God’s blessing into your relationships. When you let God’s wisdom guide your interactions, you become a channel of His grace, kindness, and honor in a world that desperately needs it. [01:13:12]

Proverbs 3:27-35 (ESV)
Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it. Do not say to your neighbor, “Go, and come again, tomorrow I will give it”—when you have it with you. Do not plan evil against your neighbor, who dwells trustingly beside you. Do not contend with a man for no reason, when he has done you no harm. Do not envy a man of violence and do not choose any of his ways, for the devious person is an abomination to the Lord, but the upright are in his confidence. The Lord’s curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the dwelling of the righteous. Toward the scorners he is scornful, but to the humble he gives favor. The wise will inherit honor, but fools get disgrace.

Reflection: Who is one person you can show unexpected kindness or humility to today, letting God’s wisdom shape your response?

Day 5: The Holy Spirit Empowers Wisdom in Action—Say “Yes” to His Leading
The Holy Spirit is your advocate, always working to unite you with Jesus and empower you to live out God’s wisdom in real life. He stirs in you a desire to obey, gives you encouragement and power to say “yes” to God, and helps you grow in awe and love for Jesus. Rather than relying on your own strength or understanding, invite the Holy Spirit to have access to every part of your life, preemptively saying “yes” to whatever He leads you into. This posture of surrender and openness is the key to experiencing the fullness of God’s wisdom in action. [23:14]

John 14:16-17, 26 (ESV)
And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you. … But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.

Reflection: What would it look like for you to invite the Holy Spirit to lead you today, and to say “yes” to Him before you even know what He will ask?

Quotes

Jesus comes as the perfect once and for all sacrifice and literally gives his body in the same manner that you would see these animals to be slaughtered. So he says, when you take this bread, he said just take it and remember what you're doing. Of course be grateful, but remember I did this for you. [00:19:00]

The great thing about this relationship with God is this: because of Jesus, I often say I'm sorry. I often tell the Lord I am so sorry. You are so perfect, your love is so perfect, and I just said that stupid thing, I thought that stupid thing, I acted in a way Lord that doesn't represent you, and I'm just sorry. You know what gives me great confidence in doing that? Is that he's not waiting for me to say sorry so that he'll do something. It's because he's already doing the something that allows me to say, I'm sorry. His love for me doesn't change. His grace and forgiveness for me doesn't change. [00:20:57]

The Holy Spirit is the one that will help stir in you a sense of awe and wonder. The Holy Spirit will stir in you a desire to want to obey me, to do what I'm trying to tell you to do. The Holy Spirit will do that. The Holy Spirit will give you the encouragement and the power that you need to say yes to whatever it is I'm telling you to do. Like that's, that's the work of the Holy Spirit. [00:22:27]

The Holy Spirit, like, literally desires nothing less than to unite us on an ongoing basis into a deeper relationship with Jesus. Do you know this? The Holy Spirit isn't your superintendent at your job. It's not your principal at your school. The Holy Spirit is your advocate. Listen, he's for you. He's not trying to push you down, keep you back. He is for you. But the for you is not for you so that you can do whatever you want. The for you is so that you can grow in a deeper, growing relationship with Jesus. [00:34:42]

Christianity in its most simple form is just saying yes to him. Listen to what he says and do it. We add, Christians, we add all the weird stuff to it. We're the ones that say like, no, you got to do this. You got to do that. First, it's this. Don't do that. Definitely don't do that. Do more of this. Do less of that. And like our heads start spinning because they can't keep up. It becomes like the Old Testament law where it's like there's too many rules. I can't figure it out. [00:36:34]

I am so convinced, although I'm trying to do it more, but I am convinced that the Holy Spirit is never wrong. You're like, you're an idiot. Of course you would say that. Of course everyone knows that. Oh, I know it here. But it's trying to move it like, you know, down into here. So it makes its way out here. I know that the Holy Spirit is never wrong so why is it so hard to take very simple truths and align my life with it instead of if anyone can relate instead of figuring out how to take these deep wise truths and figure out how to work them into my life. [00:38:28]

Can you imagine though if we would be convinced that God is already ahead of us and so when he says this is what I'm doing in your life you can trust me that we're not like I don't know I don't think so I think that I need to do this and I just need to give you I need you to give me wisdom to do what I I think I need to do and again the Hebrew word is what nah it doesn't work like that if you do not heed wisdom you won't act out true wisdom you will act out your wisdom and then we get into well you know a different set of circumstances as a result. [00:40:59]

If I'm living as unwise Proverbs tells me that I'll be foolish so I can live righteously or unrighteously just based off wisdom alone or lack thereof and so if I'm truly if I'm truly living a life of wisdom it means that there has to be this is true for every single one of us there has to be a standard if I just say everyone listen to everyone's wisdom you would say well that's what we're already doing I said that's correct so that can't be the standard social media can't be the standard your spouse can't be the standard your parents aren't the standard although kids they are the standard that God has given you so you need to listen to your parents but know where that's coming from that's coming from an ultimate standard which is God. [00:44:29]

If my life is a life of wisdom the Holy Spirit is leading my life then my actions are going to follow and so what I love about Proverbs 3 is it shows us exactly that it's wisdom and actually it reminds me of James chapter 1 do you remember where he says don't just listen to the word what does it say next do it it doesn't make any sense for you to listen you and then not do it otherwise it's it's like you were looking in a mirror and then walking away and forgetting what you look like. [00:46:59]

What I'm actually looking for what you're looking for is peace, contentment, joy, all these things that we would wrap up into this word that we call happy. Like I just want to be happy. Well yeah, but how do you think you're going to get that? Like on your own? Because if you try to get it on your own you and I both know you can make enough money to do things that make you happy, you can go enough places to make you happy, you can eat the right kind of foods to make you happy, drink the right drinks to make you happy, have the right friends that make you happy—all of us at every single age and demographic in here, wherever you are in the socioeconomic totem pole, all of us can relate to this. [00:48:38]

Whatever we're doing to be happy, we're no different than any other addict if all we're trying to do is find the next thing that's trying to fill the void to be happy and the bible's trying to teach us that is not wise thinking that's you trying to chase after but listen if you will heed my wise counsel you will actually live it out and experience more joy and happiness than you could ever have imagined Jesus said I've come to give you life and life more what abundantly more full and then there's this promise that he would give us exceedingly and abundantly more than we could ever hope or imagine. [00:50:09]

Trust in the Lord with all your heart do not depend on your own understanding seek his will in all that you do and he will show you which path to take hey listen don't be impressed with your own wisdom sorry lord instead fear the lord and turn away from evil then you will have healing for your body and strength for your bones honor the lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce then he will fill your barns with grain and your vats will overflow with good wine my child don't be upset when he corrects you for the lord corrects those he loves just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights. [00:53:38]

So we're called to store up these commands, these treasures in our heart, which requires the discipline of reading God's word and learning it, right? People say, I have a hard time talking about the Bible because I don't understand it. Do you read it? Well, not very much. There you go. Like, start reading it. You'd be surprised what the Lord brings to your mind when you start reading the Bible. I don't even care if you understand it right away. Just, you're just reading God's word and all of a sudden the Holy Spirit brings up passages and you're in a conversation. You're like, I don't know where it's at, but I think the Bible says this, this isn't that. Oh, see, look what happens. [00:55:54]

There's this wisdom in action that says I'm supposed to welcome correction and rebuke. If you've done this, and of course you've done this, otherwise you wouldn't be here today. At your job, at your school, with your parents, mate, whatever. Where there's been some kind of correction. You know, like, hey, I love you. You know I love you, right? That never goes well after that. You know that, right? If anyone starts a conversation with, listen, I just want to say, I really love you. I'm always like, let's leave it there. We'll pick it up tomorrow. I don't want any more. Yeah. So then comes the second part, which is, but I just noticed lately you're saying or you're asking. Or you're acting or your attitude or whatever. And I just want you to know, I love you, but I just wanted you to know that it's noticeable. Now, wisdom says, thank you. Can you help me explore that more? [00:59:20]

Imagine that every single one of your careers, every single one of your relationships, every single one of your activities that you're involved in, if just your mindset was just in a constant conversation that just said Lord how do you want me to handle this would that be incredible well I'll just give you another one what about when God corrects you through his words or he corrects you through others that you would just receive it with a gratitude and then take it back to just you and the Lord and figure that out wouldn't that be amazing. [01:01:41]

Joyful is the person who finds wisdom the one who gains understanding for wisdom is more profitable than silver and her wages are better than gold wisdom is more precious than rubies nothing you desire can compare with her she offers you long life in her right hand and riches and honor in her left she this is talking about wisdom she wisdom she will guide you down delightful paths all her ways are satisfying wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her happy are those who hold her tightly. [01:03:26]

Wisdom isn't just something we follow it's something we actively seek and find the challenge that we keep having as humans is we keep trying to find it everywhere else my greatest encouragement to you in line with this right here is to seek the lord first and then somebody if i if i just seek my wife first or what i did for many many years i just thought my dad was the wisest person on the planet so i just went to him first and he would most of the time give me perspective but then he would send me right back to the lord like well what is the lord saying well that's where i need to start i need to start with lord what are you saying and then will you help me through others understand that better help me know how to apply that better. [01:04:07]

James 1 5 says if you need wisdom what are you supposed to do ask our generous god and he will give it to you listen and he will not rebuke you for asking. I feel like we're embarrassed sometimes. Do you ever feel embarrassed with God? I hate it when I feel that way. I've been a Christian so long, and I still catch myself like, Lord, like I'm trying to couch something for him. Like, how would you best understand this? You realize how ridiculous that is, right? The Lord's like, I'm already on the other side of this conversation. Will you just finish, please, so I can tell you what's going on? [01:08:45]

Living with wisdom brings a security that nothing else can do. You'll see it right here, starting in verse 21. My child, don't lose sight of common sense and discernment. Hang on to them. Hang on to them like jewels on a necklace. They keep you safe on your way, and your feet will not stumble. You can go to bed without fear. You will lie down and sleep soundly. You need not be afraid of sudden disaster or destruction. [01:10:18]

The Lord is your security. He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap. Listen, let me give you three quick areas of security according to God's word. The first one in verse 23 is actual physical security. Your feet will not stumble. Meaning wisdom helps us to avoid the traps and pitfalls that end up destroying our lives. We make so many bad decisions because of lack of wisdom. And then we have to live with the consequences. But another thing that it does is it gives emotional security. You'll see that in verse 24. You can go to bed without fear. Listen, when we're living in right alignment with his wisdom, just believing him and trusting him, we can rest in peace. Man, doesn't that sound good? [01:11:10]

Our ultimate protection and safety comes from within our relationship with the Lord. Lord, this world cannot give you whatever it is that you're looking for. Well, what about? I don't even care what it is. Whatever it is. It cannot give it to you. Psalm 4, 8 says, In peace. This is what David was praying when King Saul was hunting him down and trying to kill him. In peace, I will lie down and sleep. For you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe. Not my medications. Not my doctors. Not my procedures. Are we grateful for those things? Eternally. Thank you, Lord, for good doctors and good medicine and good procedures. Thank you for those things. But that is not the source. God is the source of all of those things. [01:12:05]

The final area of wisdom shows up in how we treat other people our relationships reveal ultimately whether or not we're operating out of man's wisdom or god's wisdom if you've messed me over man's wisdom said i need to and then fill in the blank if you've hurt me said something about me come at me disagree with me whatever human wisdom says there's a plan but the bible says that's foolishness and unrighteousness and wickedness and is detestable to god what in other words it's bad so i don't want to do that so what is my alternative well i can heed the wise counsel from proverbs. [01:14:15]

Be generous when you can help someone do it now don't wait don't try to figure out a more convenient time how many times have people called on you for help or you heard the undertone of i don't want to just flat out ask for help but i'm passively asking for help and uh and you felt like oh i just got into my sweats or my pajamas you know what i mean and i just got home and i'm hungry and how about this um what does your next tuesday look like it's fine i am bleeding out but if next tuesday is best for you i guess that'll have to work you know what i mean like in other words we don't always fully know we have to use wisdom in that even in our response i get that but our first response shouldn't be how do i get out of this our first response should be lord yes how can i do it. [01:15:19]

Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another just as God through Christ has forgiven you. [01:17:09]

Colossians 1 9 and 10 says this so we have not stopped praying for you since we first heard about you we ask god to give you complete knowledge of his will and to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding then the way you live will always honor and please the lord and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit all the while you will grow as you learn to know god better and better. [01:18:00]

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