Wisdom and knowledge are different things. Knowledge is about the accumulation of facts and principles. Scripture doesn’t have a lot of positive things to say about piling up knowledge. 1 Corinthians 8 and 13 talk about the how useless knowledge is without love.

But wisdom is different. Wisdom has to do with the use of knowledge. It’s knowing what’s right coupled with doing what’s right. Scripture always commends the accumulation of wisdom. The whole book of Proverbs directs us to cry out for wisdom. James is sometimes referred to as the “Proverbs of the New Testament.”

“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask God who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” James 1:5

Mere knowledge can puff up as 1 Corinthians 8 says, but wisdom is wholly different in its effects.

“Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.” James 3:13-17

Knowledge can puff up but wisdom is meek and humble. It leads to peace.

Which am I pursuing, wisdom or knowledge? Knowledge isn’t bad but it should lead to wisdom.