Job 32:8-9 But it is the spirit in a man,
the breath of the Almighty, that gives him understanding.
It is not only the old who are wise,
not only the aged who understand what is right.

IQ does not equal wisdom. It has been demonstrated scientifically that age does confer a degree of wisdom because it creates a greater backlog of experiences on which to base decisions, but ultimately, true wisdom and knowledge reside with God, and are received only as He gives them. Paul said that spiritual things, that is, eternal things that underlie and go beyond the temporal things our senses deal with, cannot be grasped without the help of the Holy Spirit. (1 Corinthians 2:14) That is why Elihu’s statement is correct: age alone doesn’t guarantee anything but age. Sadly, that applies to spiritual age as well as physical. There are Christians who, though born again, have not progressed in their faith. Essentially, they have told God, that’s enough, and haven’t received the spiritual riches of understanding that He has desired to give them. Being a disciple means pressing into God to receive all that He has for us, as much and as fast as we can absorb it. God is never stingy, so the limiting factor is always on our side. If we will acknowledge our need and turn to Him, He will pour out more than we could ask or imagine. (James 1:5, Ephesians 3:20)

It was such a relief to finally realize that God’s smart and I’m not. However, I now have the danger of pride in having received that revelation! True wisdom always calls for humility. I am not to deny the revelation God has given me, but as soon as I become puffed up about it, I have lost wisdom. I am to use and share what God has given me to build others up, not to inflate myself. As I tell others consistently, God’s gifts are never for the direct recipient alone. They are always intended to draw others to God, build up the Body of Christ, and give God glory. That certainly applies to wisdom, as well as to abilities and material possessions. I am to be submitted to God in every area, so that His purposes may be fulfilled in everything pertaining to me. That is true wisdom.

Father, thank You for Your grace. I have done so many foolish things! Help me rest, relax, and rejoice in You at all times, allowing Your Spirit to flow through me unhindered, in word and action, so that I may be an effective instrument of Your will, Your kingdom, for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!