Proverbs teach people wisdom. They teach them to know when people say things that are wise and they teach them to listen to someone who tells them about things that are honest, fair and right. Proverbs 1:2-3, English Bible for the Deaf

 

I pray for two things almost every day – the same two things, every single day.

 

Yes, I try to be thankful for all the blessings in my life and often rush through my mental list of requests. However, there are two things I make a point of praying for regularly: insight and wisdom.

 

I ask God to give me the insight and wisdom I need to handle each day and every situation I find myself in, as best as possible. Perhaps it’s because the story of Solomon has always fascinated me – a king with such great wisdom that he knew what to do even in the most difficult circumstances.

 

One of the hardest things in life, for me, is not knowing what to do. Not knowing which choice or decision is the right one, the one that will lead to the best outcome. If I dig a little deeper, I suppose this stems from my fear of making mistakes, which is quite ironic because mistakes often turn out to be the best teachers, and can ultimately lead to insight and wisdom.

 

But honestly, this is something I strive for every single day.

 

These are also some of the qualities I admire most in others: insight, which often comes with understanding and empathy, and wisdom – life experience and that deeper comprehension of things I have yet to fully grasp.

 

I admire colleagues who know how to handle difficult situations, who prioritise relationships or who can assess risks and make calculated decisions. I admire friends who have a deep awareness of themselves, their emotions and their actions, even when those actions aren’t entirely right, fair or rational.

 

Over time, I’ve realised that wisdom and insight don’t guarantee that you’ll never make a wrong decision or a mistake. We’re all human and humans constantly make mistakes. Not everyone thinks deeply about a matter, its underlying intentions or the feelings and motives of others. Each of us has a limited frame of reference, our own biases shaped by limited experiences. We can’t understand everything and everyone.

 

Sometimes, you’ll have insight into a difficult situation. Sometimes, you’ll make a wise decision and sometimes, you won’t – and that’s okay. Just remember to keep trying and asking for God’s guidance every single day.

 

Insight and wisdom are not a destination, but a journey. And I have a feeling it’s a long road ahead!

 

Prayer: Lord, please give me the insight and wisdom I need today to navigate this day in the best possible way. Grant me the necessary insight and wisdom to handle every situation I encounter according to your will. Amen.