John Stanko

I wrote a book called A Daily Dose of Proverbs in 1997.  It remains my best-selling book.  In it, I identified one verse from Proverbs for every day of the year and then wrote one page of devotional material to go with that verse.  Often I told personal stories, some successes and some failures, as I attempted to apply that verse to my life and walk. 

I think people like that book because I am transparent.  I don't try to hide my struggles and I am not afraid to share my victories.  I regularly get inquiries about wisdom and how one obtains it. Some just think I am a wise guy, which isn't always a compliment. Others think I am of the age when I may know what I am talking about, having made so many mistakes that I have learned a better way.  When I get inquiries, this is what I say:

1. You get wisdom by studying and seeking it (see Proverbs 2:2-5).  That seeking cannot be passive; it must be fervent and consistent.
2. You get wisdom by reading Proverbs (see Proverbs 1:2-7).  Proverbs is all about wisdom.  if you want to be wise, then learn that book.
3. You get wisdom by walking with the wise (see Proverbs 13:20).  This can be done by reading the books the wise wrote, having mentors and coaches, and asking good questions of leaders and teachers.
4. You get wisdom by learning from experience and making mistakes (see Proverbs 15:28). You must study what you have said and done so you can improve the next time. Some have a false sense of spirituality that means they will never make a mistake. That is wrong thinking and keeps people from gaining wisdom!

There is my answer to those who ask.  What would you say?  How does one get wisdom?  Do you have anything to add to the list? If so, feel free to add your comments to this entry on the site where it is posted