Read
21Good judgment proves
that you are wise,
and if you speak kindly,
you can teach others.
22Good sense is a fountain
that gives life,
but fools are punished
by their foolishness.
23You can persuade others
if you are wise
and speak sensibly.
24Kind words are like honey—
they cheer you up
and make you feel strong.
Reflect
As a father, I have often become frustrated when my children will not listen to my instruction. What about you? Are there family members, friends, co-workers, leaders, employers, or others that you just wish would listen to you?
The wise person is considered to be discerning in a conversation – speaking with gracious words that will help people understand, rather than words that create barriers. Wisdom changes your words to become a fountain of life that helps to bring healing to the lives of others.
The pursuit of wisdom is an act of surrender to God’s Spirit shaping your heart. God’s wisdom is not limited to greater knowledge, although that can be a part of it. Rather, it is the kind of wisdom that shapes the inside of you and turns you into a person that others see as someone with wisdom. Rather than trying harder to get others to see things your way, maybe you should stop and ask God for greater wisdom in the situation you are facing. Invite him to shape you on the inside and to have his wisdom come shining through in your actions and attitudes.
Wisdom does not just benefit you in the decisions you are making. Wisdom changes you and how you approach life. Ultimately, wisdom will change the level of influence you will have in the life of others. Do you want more influence? Gain more wisdom and let it come out in all of your actions.
Respond
Father God. Give me more wisdom, and may the wisdom you give bring life to those around me.
Kirk Giles
Kirk Giles is Co-Lead Pastor of Forward Church – a multisite church in the Waterloo Region area of Ontario. He previously served as President of Promise Keepers Canada | Impactus – a global ministry equipping men for a life of purpose and godly impact. Kirk is married to Shannon and together, they have four adult children and two daughters-in-law.