Sacrament Of ConfirmationНамуна

Wisdom

“The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit bestowed upon Christians are wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord.” (CCC1845)

What does it mean to have wisdom?  Wisdom is a broadly understood concept in the Western world which can sometimes lead to confusion when trying to understand it as a spiritual gift.  In honesty it is a difficult concept to describe.  Wisdom manages to balance knowledge and judgement, common sense and compassion, experience and learning.  Wisdom always leads us to right action and right thought.  It is grown by discernment and prayer and a thoughtful patience.  Wisdom always leads us to consider others and to put God at the centre, any thoughts or actions that fail to do this could be described as “unwise”.

Do not confuse wisdom with cleverness as there are many unwise academics and wise drop-outs.  Wisdom is a gift from the Holy Spirit, the first and most to be desired gift.

As you pray today, consider how you can be more wise.  Can you make more time for prayerful discernment?  Are there other people who need to come first at the moment?  How can you grow in compassion?  Is God at the centre of your life?