The Word of Wisdom is ultimately about applying divine insight to practical situations, reflecting God’s wisdom and purposes. It is not merely about having knowledge but about the Spirit-led application of that knowledge in ways that align with God’s will and benefit the community.
Definition: The word of wisdom is a supernatural insight into God's will and purpose, providing guidance for specific situations.
The Charism of Wisdom is when we have knowledge of certain situation or person; and the word of wisdom helps us know what to do with those facts, how to act on them according to Gods will & purpose.
It is important to make distinctions between natural wisdom, the sanctifying gift of wisdom which is mentioned in Is. 11:2, and the charismatic gift of wisdom which is mentioned in 1 Cor. 12:8.
Natural wisdom is a certain understanding that is gained by life experience and by training. We learn natural wisdom from our parents and other mentors and role models.
The sanctifying gift of wisdom is an understanding of how God is calling us to live in order to become holy. It is seeing things from God’s perspective rather than from our own limited perspective.
The Charism of Wisdom is a manifestation of the Spirit in a particular time for a particular situation that builds up the body of Christ by providing understanding of how to live or how to respond. This charism may be manifested in a large public gathering or in counseling an individual. It can be a gift of teaching or of healing or of counsel.
Scriptural Examples:
• Solomon’s Wisdom: King Solomon demonstrated this gift when he resolved the dispute between two women claiming to be the mother of the same child (1 Kings 3:16-28).
• Jesus' Teaching: Jesus often exhibited this gift, such as when he skillfully answered the Pharisees' question about paying taxes to Caesar (Matthew 22:15-22).
Catholic Teaching: The Church recognizes the word of wisdom as a gift of the Holy Spirit that aids in decision-making and discerning God's will. The gift is often associated with the virtue of prudence and the guidance of the Holy Spirit in leading the faithful toward the truth (CCC 1831).
Practical Applications:
The Word of Wisdom manifests in various ways within the Church & Communities today, often through:
Counsel and Guidance: Priests, spiritual directors and leaders offering profound and timely advice to those seeking God’s direction.
Decision Making: Leaders within the Church and ministries making decisions that align with divine wisdom, impacting the Church's mission and pastoral care.
Teaching and Preaching: Inspired sermons and teachings that provide deep insights and practical applications of Scripture to life.
There are many ways that the Holy Spirit uses the charism of word of wisdom to build up the Body of Christ. Any of us may be used by the Holy Spirit at any time to exercise this gift.
Be open to receive and use this charism whenever the Holy Spirit chooses to bestow it upon you.