When Wisdom Speaks Through peace
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But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.
– James 3:17 (NKJV)
We all face times in our lives when we need godly wisdom, but how can we be sure we’re discerning God’s voice? Many years ago, I stood in the hallway after church, venting my frustration to a trusted, spiritually mature friend. I was facing a difficult decision and desperately needed God’s guidance.
“I don’t know what to do. I’ve prayed and prayed for God’s leading, but I’m not sure if I’m hearing His voice, my voice, or the enemy’s voice.”
“You’ll make a wise decision,” she said without hesitation.
Her confidence didn’t filter down to me. “How can you be sure?”
My friend gave me an incredulous look. “Because you’re one of His sheep. You hear His voice, and a stranger you will not follow.”
Though simply spoken, her words sank deep into my soul, reinforcing a quiet truth that I needed to hear: I belonged to the Good Shepherd. He would direct me. He would protect me.
Too often when we’re trying to make decisions, we seek knowledge when our greater need is wisdom. God knew exactly what was needful at that moment in my life, and used my friend to deliver His truth.
He also knew I didn’t need someone to send me a self-help article with a five-step plan or a podcast full of expert advice from a celebrity therapist. The wisdom of God already resided in me through the presence of His Holy Spirit. His guiding hand would put me on the right path, and His pure and perfect peace would serve as a light, leading the way.
Questions for Reflection:
1. Hearing from God with all the distractions in the world isn’t always easy. What are some ways you can calm your mind and better discern godly wisdom in your decision-making?
2. What is your knee-jerk reaction when you’re faced with an important decision? Do you turn to God for wisdom or seek input from other sources? What has been the result?
3. When you think of wisdom, who in your life embodies such a trait? What fruit do you see in this person and how can you pursue the same for your own life?
