“…wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace for those who make peace.” James 3:17-18

As he began his reign, Solomon asked God for a discerning mind (1 Kings 3:9) for he could not be the king of God’s people without God’s help through this gift of wisdom.

When I think of gifts from God, I often forget wisdom. Yet, when I look at people that I admire, I realize that they are ones gifted with wisdom. I recognize they have received that from God. Their lives show the characteristics listed in James’ description: purity, peace, gentleness, mercy and fairness; they sow seeds of peace and they harvest righteousness — that steadfast relationship with God through faith.

Prayer:  Holy Spirit, guide us into all truth: Endow us with patience to search for your wisdom… (from the Diaconal Litany, 1959, revised 7/97 and 2012)

Deaconess Cheryl Erdmann – Loves Park, IL