The Wisdom of Other Believers
But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. – James 3:17
We all face situations where we simply do not know what to do. So often, in these kinds of scenarios, there is a tangible tension between wanting to do what is right and wanting to do what is in our own best interests. Or worse, we convince ourselves that what is in our best interest is the right thing to do. Our desire for justice and fairness begins to arise within us, though we are often unsure how to navigate our way through it all.
God loves to speak into these difficulties. And one of His most powerful tools for speaking into our lives in these kinds of situations is the wisdom and counsel of other mature followers of Jesus. Proverbs 15:22 says that plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. But not every person offering their opinion or perspective is giving wisdom from heaven. That is why we want to seek the advice and counsel of mature, Spirit-filled followers of Jesus.
Those who speak heavenly wisdom are those who spend regular time in the presence of God, connecting to Him and hearing His voice. They are regularly seeking God in His Word and are often pursuing the place of worship and adoration of our Heavenly Father. These kinds of Jesus-followers submit themselves to the leadership of the Holy Spirit and desire to only speak what is in alignment with God’s heart and character, with what is true, right, and lovely. And these kinds of Jesus-followers speak in a manner that is gentle and loving, not harsh or condemning. Their words are seasoned with mercy, grace, and tenderness. They always point you back to the heart of our Heavenly Father with sincerity and avoid taking sides in any given situation.
It is good to seek the counsel and wisdom of these kinds of Jesus-followers. God uses them to impart truth and to speak through them into whatever difficulty you may be facing right now. God uses their wisdom to point you back to Him, to His heart, and to what is true.
Today’s Prayer: Lord, speak to me through wise counsel. Show me who I should seek out for wisdom, those who know you and will represent your heart and character well.
Today’s Challenge: Seek out one or two people you sense will give you true wisdom from heaven, who will impart the truth and love of our Heavenly Father. Ask them to speak into your current situation or struggle.
