The gift of wisdom is the ability to apply existing knowledge in practical, novel and insightful ways to complex, difficult or paradoxical situations.
Scriptural References
1 Samuel 25:2-44, 2 Samuel 20:14-22, 1 Kings 3:5-14, 1 Kings 10:1-13, 1 Corinthians 2:1-13, 1 Corinthians 13:8-13, James 1:5-8, James 3:13-18, 2 Peter 3:14-18
Biblical Models
Abigail, Woman of Abel Beth-maacah, Solomon, Queen of Sheba, Jesus, Paul
People with this gift can
- Apply spiritual truths in imaginative, insightful and practical ways.
- Hear the Spirit provide novel direction.
- Foresee opportunities that are not obvious.
- Provide inspiring solutions in the midst of conflict or confusion.
- Perceive and respond to the deep needs of individuals or the group.
Cautions
- May give advice when asked even if they don't actually have anything helpful to add.
- May become a "guru" whose advice is followed without question.
- Must guard against becoming overbearing and patronizing.
- Must allow others the freedom to experiment and learn for themselves from experience.
- Might retreat to an “ivory tower,” or seek to live above the fray.
Personal Traits
- Insightful
- Practical
- Perceptive
- Humorous
- Fair
- Experienced
- Surprising
Tips for nurturing this gift
- Learn to guide others to their own insights instead of simply giving advice. Ask the right questions instead of giving the right answers.
- Develop good listening skills.
- Seek the wisdom of others.
Possible Tasks
Leading seminars, counselling, prayer teams, conflict resolution, Spirit Given gift consultant, …
Not to be confused with the responsibility of all Christians to …
Use common sense.
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(c) 2004, 2006, 2008 David Ewart, www.davidewart.ca
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