Don’t you hate it when you are getting ready to do something, but something deep inside is nagging at you, saying, “Don’t do it!”  I can’t begin to count the times I have had those feelings, but yet, ignored them and did that “thing” anyway.  Of course, “Hindsight is 20/20,” and I always would get angry at myself for not listening to that gut feeling.  But, those nagging feelings you get are called, “Wisdom.”  Or, you could say the Holy Spirit who is guiding you.  Wisdom is having knowledge and the insight and the abilities to discern inner qualities and relationships.  In the Old Testament days, “Wisdom” had the image of a woman who floated around like the wind.  I even imagine her as transparent, free, and lovely.  Wisdom became known as the Holy Spirit.

Proverbs is the Book of Wisdom.  In this Book of the Old Testament, are all the ‘do’s and don’ts’ that you can imagine.  If you are questioning and discerning what may be right or what may be wrong – read the Book of Proverbs.  It is likely you will find your answer there.  In Proverbs 24:1-24, we piggy-back from yesterday’s reading about the two houses.  In this section of Proverbs, the writer emphasizes what a house built on Wisdom looks like.  For example, a house built on wisdom becomes strong and established by knowledge and filled with pleasant riches (v 3).  Those who have ‘wisdom’ will make mistakes and fall.  But, they will have the ability to rise- up again.  However, those who are evil will fall and will be overthrown by calamity (v.16).  In other words, Wisdom – or the Holy Spirit, will guide you into righteousness – meaning a “Right Relationship with Jesus Christ.”

Listen to your gut feelings when discerning a ‘particular’ situation or action.  When in doubt, take a step back, take time to pray, and let “Wisdom,” the knowledge of the Holy Spirit guide you.

Let us pray, dear Friend, Lord, and Savior, help us to gain wisdom through the work of the Holy Spirit.  Help guide us into a deeper relationship with you by discerning our actions.  We love you so much.  Amen.