Cornflakes and Tomatoes: The Journey from Knowledge to Wisdom
Written by Troy Haas, M.Div., CADC-II, CSAT, CMAT
Cornflakes and tomatoes? That just sounds crazy. Personally, I don’t like any fruit in my cereal, but that’s beside the point. A friend recently posted a quote on social media describing the difference between wisdom and knowledge: “Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit. Wisdom is not chopping one up to put in your cereal.” Brilliant.
Those who are walking the path toward freedom from addiction naturally develop a deep thirst for knowledge. However, knowledge does not always lead to freedom. The line between freedom and slavery can be tenuous; it’s easy to blow past what we know in the heat of the struggle. Wisdom helps us stay on the right side of it.
Too often, we mistake knowledge and insight for wisdom. We believe knowing why we struggle or how to respond when triggered is the solution. But that kind of knowledge does not depend on an intimate and authentic connection with God or others. Knowledge might help, but wisdom takes what we know and gives it power and perspective, resulting in real and lasting freedom.
Today, as you journey toward freedom, ask for godly wisdom. Keep in mind what Scripture says:
Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you.
– Proverbs 4:6 (NIV)
In his article titled “Don’t Confuse Knowledge and Success with Maturity,” Dr. Paul David Tripp, a pastor and respected author, makes this important distinction:
There is a huge difference between knowledge and wisdom. Knowledge is an accurate understanding of truth. Wisdom is understanding and living in light of how that truth applies to the situations and relationships of your daily life. Knowledge is an exercise of your brain. Wisdom is the commitment of your heart that leads to life transformation.¹
Wisdom manifests through experience. Our tendency is to use the knowledge we have and work hard to solve whatever we are facing. Knowing the wise response is not always clear. The good news is that God offers a solution in His Word.
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
– James 1:5 (NIV)
The beautiful thing about having a relationship with God is the opportunity to ask Him for what we need. When we recognize that knowledge can only take us so far — and wisdom makes all the difference — we can take comfort in knowing that when we breathe a prayer for wisdom, He faithfully delivers.
People in recovery understand the importance of asking for God’s wisdom. The Serenity Prayer has become a foundational part of our collective journey.
God, grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
— Reinhold Niebuhr
I know that a tomato is technically considered a fruit. But there’s no way I am adding it to my cornflakes. I wish recovery and life were that simple. The truth is, I must seek wisdom as if my freedom depends on it.
¹ Paul David Tripp, “Don’t Confuse Knowledge and Success with Maturity,” The Gospel Coalition, https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/dont-confuse-knowledge-and-success-with-maturity.