Written by Sharla Hintz

Read: “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

I looked around the table at the people filling the seats at the leadership retreat (all of whom I deemed more knowledgeable than me) and wondered why nobody was answering the question. So many years later, I don’t recall the specific question that was asked to this group of pastors and volunteers, but I remember thinking the answer was as obvious as if I were reading it in a book. I was confident everyone at the table had the same answer written in their minds, so, to end the awkward silence, I spoke out, reasoning to myself that everyone else must be too shy to do so. I have rarely been more surprised than when, immediately after speaking, I realized nobody else had been thinking what I had been thinking. The suggestions I made that day were implemented and ended up becoming a great benefit.

Over time, I had many similar experiences, and began to notice a pattern of people seeking me out asking questions like, “Can you help me think this through,” or “Can I get your wisdom on something?” During those conversations, I would ask the Lord if He had wisdom He wanted me to communicate, and I would almost always sense the Lord impressing upon me a question to ask, a suggestion to make, or a piece of wisdom to share. When I trusted those impressions, the conversation always became a very rich experience.

When people are experiencing confusion or can’t see a way forward, it is incredibly gratifying to be used by the Lord to offer an unexpected solution, encouragement, or practical step that can lead them to peace and clarity.