BCIC Wisdom Sample

Wisdom Seeing and responding to life’s situations from God’s frame of reference

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.”

PROVERBS 9:10

THREE GENERATIONS STUDY GOD’S WORD “But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.”

II TIMOTHY 3:14–15

SPIRITUAL GIFT:

BIBLICAL CHARACTER ILLUSTRATED CURRICULUM Illustrated in Scripture, Illustrated in Life

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CONTENTS

Biblical Character Illustrated Curriculum Illustrated in Scripture “The testimony of the Lord is sure, making

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wise the simple” (Psalm 19:7b). Biblical

Introduction

character is illustrated in this curriculum

2 How to Use This Curriculum

through both artwork and lessons from

3 Goals and Objectives

the lives of people in God’s Word. We most

4 Character Quality Overview

often benefit from the positive examples

5 Wisdom in Scripture

of faithful men and women. “For whatso-

6 Lesson 1:

Continue Learning

written for our learning, that we through

7 Bible Story: Three Generations Study God’s Word

patience and comfort of the scriptures

8 Memory Verse: Proverbs 18:15

might have hope” (Romans 15:4). There were

9 Activity: Timothy’s Scroll

also people in the Bible who are repre-

10 Lesson 2:

Love His Word

11 Bible Story: God’s Word Saves the Nation 12 Memory Verse: Proverbs 9:10 13 Activity: Seeing from a New Perspective

14 Lesson 3:

Apply His Ways

15 Bible Story: The Parable of the Two Builders 16 Memory Verse: James 1:22 17 Activity: Word Search

18 Lesson 4: Keep Company with Wise People 19 Bible Story: Daniel Makes a Request of His Friends 20 Memory Verse: Proverbs 13:20 21 Activity: Circles of Influence

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ever things were written aforetime were

Additional Resources 22 Wisdom GEMs 23 Journal and GEM

sentations of poor character, and we can learn from their lives as well. “Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted” (I Corinthians 10:6). We would be wise to learn from the testimonies God has given us in Scripture.

Illustrated in Life “Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). Hearing the Word of God causes us to grow in faith.

This curriculum offers many practical applications of God’s Word to everyday life. “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). As God enables us to act in faith, our lives as believers will illustrate His character to others.

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24 Hymn Sheet Music: “I Want a Principle Within” 25 H ymn History: “I Want a Principle Within”

by Charles Wesley 26 Explaining Salvation to a Child 27 Reproducible Coloring Pages 31 Recommended Resources

The character of God is illustrated in Scripture.

May it also be illustrated in our lives.

Character Quality Overview What Is Wisdom?

Read aloud and discuss what wisdom means and how it applies to life.

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he operational definition of wisdom is “seeing and responding to life’s situations from God’s frame of reference.” A frame of reference is the way someone thinks about life, which affects how he responds to people and situations. A person tends to think and act based on his culture, experiences, education, and view of God. As you mature, you will find that others have different frames of reference and have information that you do not. For example, if a boy Like a satellite’s view of the earth, God discovers that his has a greater perspective on life. He can bike is missing, he be trusted to give us wisdom to respond might run into the well to life’s situations. house, crying that his bike was stolen. However, if his mother tells him that the neighbor is borrowing the bike, he is relieved.

Similarly, God’s greater knowledge and perspective can help us to better understand and respond to the situations we encounter. Ultimately, no one but God has full knowledge. To those who ask, He promises to give wisdom that is “pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy” (James 3:17).

The opposite of wisdom is natural inclinations. Natural inclinations are usually impulsive actions or thoughtless reactions. Without considering God’s perspective, a person does what is “right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25).

He lives carelessly and foolishly, as though God does

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not exist. One who is governed by his natural inclinations tends to gratify his desires and disregard rules and correction. He does not care how his actions may affect others. Society reinforces this self-centered attitude through social media, television, movies, and books. In time, a person who follows his impulses will develop sinful patterns of thinking and behavior. James 3:14–16 describes this mindset as “earthly, sensual, devilish,” leading to confusion and evil.

How can someone gain wisdom? God’s Word tells us that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). To fear God is to have reverence for and awe of Him. As we read the Like a tunnel offering a narrow view, Bible and pray, we can our human perspective is limited to our own experiences and knowledge. cultivate our underWithout God’s wisdom, we readily act standing of Who God according to our natural inclinations. is. Reverence comes as we realize God is all-powerful, holy, just, and always present. He has the right to rule as Creator and Lord, and one day we will give an account to Him. Fearing God is similar to hosting a guest you greatly admire. If an honorable person came to your home, you would be on your best behavior, carefully avoiding anything that may displease your respected guest. When you fear God, He is your special Guest! As you realize that He is always present, how does that awareness change how you might live, act, and speak?

Wisdom in Scripture

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WISDOM KEY VERSE

s you read and study God’s Word,

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of

you will see Who He is! Be willing to

wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is

be changed by Him so Christ can be seen

understanding.” PROVERBS 9:10

through your life and others will glorify God.

The Character of God

Wisdom in My Life

We see examples of wisdom in God’s character in the following ways:

Now let’s examine some ways God wants us to live out wisdom daily.

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God created the world by His wisdom.

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(See Proverbs 3:19.)

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(See Proverbs 4:7, 8:11.)

God is the source of wisdom.

(See Proverbs 2:6, Daniel 2:20–23.)

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Jesus grew in wisdom from a young age.

Jesus was God’s power and wisdom in the flesh, revealed to mankind.

(See I Corinthians 1:24, 30; Matthew 13:54.)

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The Spirit of God gave Bezaleel and Daniel the wisdom and skill to fulfill His calling to them.

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The Holy Spirit gives believers wisdom and knowledge.

(See I Corinthians 2:12–14, 12:8.)

What four little creatures can teach me to be wise?

(See Proverbs 30:24–28.)

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What results from wise actions and words?

(See Proverbs 14:1, Daniel 12:3.)

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(See Exodus 31:2–4, Daniel 5:11.)

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How may I bring joy to my parents?

(See Proverbs 10:1, 23:24–25.)

Jesus has all wisdom and is worthy of praise for eternity.

(See Revelation 7:12, Jude 1:25.)

What can I do when I don’t know what to do?

(See James 1:5–6, Proverbs 1:5.)

(See Luke 2:52, Isaiah 11:1–2, 50:4.)

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Why should I wholeheartedly pursue wisdom?

Why is a poor yet wise child better than a foolish king?

(See Ecclesiastes 4:13, Proverbs 15:5, 31–32.)

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What makes a great nation?

(See Deuteronomy 4:5–6, Proverbs 14:34.)

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GOD ENABLES ME TO

Continue Learning INTRODUCTION

Three Generations Study God’s Word

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hroughout life you will face new situations, problems, and decisions. New experiences and information will expand your perspective. These circumstances become opportunities to learn. For example, you could watch your dad fix the car, see how food grows in a garden, or discover how a machine works. When you approach life with a humble, teachable attitude, you will gain wisdom. You can also ask wise people to share from their experiences. You can learn from God’s Word how to respond to the various events in life. His Word tells you how to work, treat others, overcome sin, and receive correction. Welcome each situation as an opportunity to exercise wisdom by applying God’s ways. “Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning” (Proverbs 9:9).

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WISDOM Seeing and responding to life’s situations from God’s frame of reference

BIBLE STORY

LESSON 1 Continue Learning

Three Generations Study God’s Word

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uring the Apostle Paul’s first missionary journey, he visited the city of Lystra. As the Gospel spread in Lystra, many trusted in Christ, including a youth named Timothy; his Jewish mother, Eunice; and his grandmother, Lois. Before hearing the Gospel, Timothy’s mother and grandmother had faithfully brought him up in their Jewish faith. Now they knew their true Messiah, Jesus, and continued to grow in the Lord. When Paul returned to Lystra, the other believers spoke highly of Timothy. Welcoming Timothy as his son in the faith, Paul invited the young man to travel with him. Timothy learned much from Paul, who discipled him. As time passed and Timothy grew spiritually, Paul believed the young man was

ready to lead the church in Ephesus. During Paul’s travels, he wrote a letter to Timothy, warning him of false teachers and instructing him regarding pastoral responsibilities. Four years passed while Paul continued to evangelize. One day, from a cold, dirty prison, he wrote a second letter to Timothy.

Aware that the end of his life was near, the aged apostle was eager to see his disciple one more time.

What wisdom would Paul impart to Timothy? Why would it be vital for Timothy to continue studying and learning from God’s Word?

1. What words of wisdom did Paul give to young Timothy? (See I Timothy 4:12.)

5. What was Timothy to do with what he had been taught? (See II Timothy 2:2.)

How can you be a good example?

2. What did Paul encourage Timothy to do?

(See I Timothy 2:1–4, 4:13–16.)

Why should you pray for others? How often is it wise to meditate on Scripture? (See Joshua 1:8.)

3. How did Paul set a good example and invest in Timothy’s life? (See II Timothy 1:2–3.) How many generations in Timothy’s family followed Christ at that time? (See II Timothy 1:5.)

What examples of good character have you seen in your elders? What qualities would you be wise to develop in your own life?

4. What did Paul urge Timothy to hold fast (keep)?

(See II Timothy 1:13–14.)

What is the wise response to Godly counsel and instruction? (See Proverbs 4:13, 19:20.) How might your parents respond when you demonstrate wisdom? (See Proverbs 23:24–25.)

Let’s read the Bible story in I Timothy 2:1–4, 4:12–16 and II Timothy 1:1–5, 13–14; 2:1–4, 22–26; 3:12–17 and then discuss the following questions.

With whom can you share Biblical truth that you have learned?

6. What did Paul instruct Timothy to do to avoid shame and ungodliness? (See II Timothy 2:15–16.)

When do you study God’s Word? What has God taught you recently?

7. How was Timothy encouraged to behave?

(See II Timothy 2:22–23.) Rather than argue, what was the appropriate response to those who resisted truth? (See II Timothy 2:24–26.)

Is arguing wise? What is a wise response toward those who appear to be Godly but speak or act unrighteously? (See II Timothy 3:1–5.)

8. If Timothy continued to learn and apply Scripture, what would be the result? (See II Timothy 3:16–17.)

What Biblical truths have you learned from your parents and teachers? How can you wisely respond to reproof and correction? (See Proverbs 9:8, 15:31–32.)

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Operational Definitions of Character Qualities ALERTNESS vs. Unawareness

ATTENTIVENESS vs. Unconcern

AVAILABILITY vs. Self-Centeredness

BOLDNESS vs. Fearfulness

CAUTIOUSNESS vs. Rashness

COMPASSION vs. Indifference

CONTENTMENT vs. Covetousness

Being aware of that which is taking place around me so that I can have the right response to it

Showing the worth of a person by giving undivided concentration to his words and emotions

Making my own schedule and priorities secondary to the wishes of those I am serving

Confidence that what I have to say or do is true and right and just in the sight of God

Knowing how important right timing is in accomplishing right actions

Investing whatever is necessary to heal the hurts of others

Realizing that God has provided everything I need for my present happiness

Mark 14:38

Hebrews 2:1

Acts 4:29

Proverbs 19:2

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Philippians 2:20–21

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I John 3:17

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I Timothy 6:8

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CREATIVITY vs. Underachievement

DECISIVENESS vs. Double-mindedness

DEFERENCE vs. Rudeness

DEPENDABILITY vs. Inconsistency

DETERMINATION vs. Faintheartedness

DILIGENCE vs. Slothfulness

DISCERNMENT vs. Judgment

Approaching a need, a task, or an idea from a new perspective

The ability to finalize difficult decisions based on the will and ways of God

Limiting my freedom in order not to offend the tastes of those God has called me to serve

Fulfilling what I consented to do even if it means unexpected sacrifice

Purposing to accomplish God’s goals in God’s time regardless of the opposition

The God-given ability to understand why things happen

James 1:5

Romans 14:21

Visualizing each task as a special assignment from the Lord and using all my energies to accomplish it

Romans 12:2

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Psalm 15:4

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II Timothy 4:7–8

Colossians 3:23

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I Samuel 16:7

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DISCRETION vs. Simplemindedness

ENDURANCE vs. Giving Up

ENTHUSIASM vs. Apathy

FAITH vs. Unbelief

FLEXIBILITY vs. Resistance

FORGIVENESS vs. Rejection

GENEROSITY vs. Stinginess

The ability to avoid words, actions, and attitudes that could result in undesirable consequences

The inward strength to withstand stress to accomplish God’s best

Fervently expressing with my soul the joy of my spirit

Visualizing what God intends to do in a given situation and acting in harmony with it

Not setting my affections on ideas or plans that could be changed by God or others

Clearing the record of those who have wronged me and allowing God to love them through me

Realizing that all I have belongs to God and using it for His purposes

Hebrews 11:1

Colossians 3:2

Ephesians 4:32

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Proverbs 22:3

Galatians 6:9

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I Thessalonians 5:16, 19

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S

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II Corinthians 9:6

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GENTLENESS vs. Harshness

GRATEFULNESS vs. Unthankfulness

HOSPITALITY vs. Loneliness

HUMILITY vs. Pride

INITIATIVE vs. Unresponsiveness

JOYFULNESS vs. Self-Pity

JUSTICE vs. Corruption

Showing personal care and concern in meeting the needs of others

Making known to God and others in what ways they have benefited my life

Cheerfully sharing food, shelter, and spiritual refreshment with those God brings into my life

Recognizing and doing what needs to be done before I am asked to do it

Delighting in fellowship with the Lord regardless of my circumstances

Personal responsibility to uphold God’s unchanging laws

I Corinthians 4:7

Hebrews 13:2

Recognizing that without the help of God and others my achievements in life would not have been possible

Romans 12:21

Psalm 16:11

Micah 6:8

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I Thessalonians 2:7

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James 4:6

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LOVE vs. Selfishness

LOYALTY vs. Unfaithfulness

MEEKNESS vs. Anger

OBEDIENCE vs. Willfulness

ORDERLINESS vs. Disorganization

PATIENCE vs. Restlessness

PERSUASIVENESS vs. Contentiousness

Giving to others’ basic needs without having as my motive personal reward

Using difficult times to demonstrate my commitment to God and to those He has called me to serve

Yielding my personal rights and expectations to God

Eagerly yielding to God’s Word rather than following my own will

Preparing myself and my surroundings so I will achieve the greatest efficiency

Guiding vital truths around another’s mental roadblocks

Psalm 62:5

II Corinthians 10:5

I Corinthians 14:40

Accepting a difficult situation from God without giving Him a deadline to remove it

I Corinthians 13:3

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John 15:13

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Romans 5:3–4

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II Timothy 2:24

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PUNCTUALITY vs. Tardiness

RESOURCEFULNESS vs. Wastefulness

RESPONSIBILITY vs. Unreliability

REVERENCE vs. Disrespect

SECURITY vs. Anxiety

SELF-CONTROL vs. Self-Indulgence

SENSITIVITY vs. Callousness

Showing high esteem for other people and their time

Wise use of that which others would normally overlook or discard

Knowing and doing what both God and others are expecting from me

Luke 16:10

Romans 14:12

Structuring my life around that which is eternal and cannot be destroyed or taken away

Instant obedience to the initial promptings of God’s Spirit

Ecclesiastes 3:1

Awareness of how God is working through the people and events in my life to produce the character of Christ in me

Exercising my senses so I can perceive the true spirit and emotions of those around me

Proverbs 23:17–18

John 6:27

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Galatians 5:24–25

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Romans 12:15

SINCERITY vs. Hypocrisy

THOROUGHNESS vs. Incompleteness

THRIFTINESS vs. Extravagance

TOLERANCE vs. Prejudice

TRUTHFULNESS vs. Deception

VIRTUE vs. Impurity

WISDOM vs. Natural Inclinations

Eagerness to do what is right, with transparent motives

Knowing what factors will diminish the effectiveness of my work or words if neglected

Not letting myself or others spend that which is not necessary

Acceptance of others as unique expressions of specific character qualities in varying degrees of maturity

Earning future trust by accurately reporting past facts

The moral excellence and purity of spirit that radiate from my life as I obey God’s Word

Seeing and responding to life’s situations from God’s frame of reference

G Philippians 2:2

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I Peter 1:22

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T P— Prophet

Proverbs 18:15

S— Server

Luke 16:11

G T—Teacher

E— Exhorter

Ephesians 4:25

P G— Giver

II Peter 1:3–5

O— Organizer

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Proverbs 9:10

M— Mercy

Revealing the character of Christ through the stories in His Word.

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