I've watched parts of both political "conventions" - DNC and RNC.
I've been listening for some wisdom, even conventional wisdom would be fine.
I haven't heard it.
I've heard a lot of empty promises that even I could make if I wanted people to like or vote for me. WE will do this. WE will do that. THEY don't know this or that about nothin. Yada yada. I'm weary of the American political landscape. It's kind of embarrassing.
When was the last time you saw a political TV ad that made an intelligent point? And the not only negative but also misleading statements from both sides is disappointing.
Given what they say, I wonder if the candidates and their campaign strategists might assume you and I are somewhat stupid, or naive, or gullible.
Compared to my understanding of truthfulness and engaging dialog, this is fairly
E M P T Y.
What does the Bible say about wisdom? A lot, but here are just a few things...
First, the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. (Psalms and Proverbs)
Second, the forbidden fruit in the garden was perceived by the first human creatures as "desireable for gaining wisdom." (Genesis 3:6) The first recorded trespass -- going into territory where we shouldn't go -- was for seemingly good motives. Hm, food for thought.
Third, Solomon (in Kings and Chronicles) asked God for wisdom and God gave it, making Solomon an off-the-charts great leader. (This is the kind of wisdom I wish our political candidates would ask God for, and that God would give it to them. They way they are running the campaigns so far doesn't make it overly evident that this has already happened.)
Fourth, Jesus had wisdom that people uniquely noted, as much as they noted his miracles. (Luke and Matthew) "And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and people." Sometimes Jesus' wisdom offended people. In wisdom, he demonstrated a new way to lead people -- from beneath and from the side rather than top down. Love for enemies instead of hatred. Sacrifice instead of power. Servanthood instead of self-service.
Fifth, if anyone lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. (James 1:5) There's nobody anywhere who should not be praying this prayer, asking God for wisdom and looking for it in the right places.
Lastly, "Who is wise and understanding among you? Show it by your good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom." (James 3:13)
James is saying let there be some proof in the pudding. Wisdom is not just something you have or do not have, and it's not just discernment or judgement. It is also demonstration of doing the right thing, in humility.
That's the conventional wisdom I'd like to see a little more of these final days of the election of our next national leader. Both candidates profess to be Christians, and I'm looking for how that gets lived out in their pitch to be president.
