How can we apply Jesus' example of wisdom in our daily conversations? Watching Twelve-Year-Old Jesus Speak • Luke 2:46-47 sets the scene: “After three days they found Him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were amazed at His understanding and His answers.” • Even as a boy, Jesus models perfect wisdom—He listens, asks, and then speaks with depth that astonishes seasoned scholars. What Wisdom Looks Like • Attentive listening – He “was … listening to them” before giving answers. • Thoughtful questioning – He “asked … questions,” inviting dialogue rather than monologue. • Insightful answering – His replies flowed from divine understanding, not mere opinion. Applying His Example in Daily Conversations 1. Listen First – James 1:19: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” – Practically: give full eye contact, silence phones, let others finish. 2. Ask Clarifying Questions – Proverbs 18:13 warns against answering “before he hears.” – Use phrases like “Help me understand…” or “Could you tell me more?” 3. Speak with Grace and Truth – Colossians 4:6: “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt.” – Ephesians 4:15: “Speaking the truth in love” guards against either harshness or compromise. 4. Ground Words in Scripture – Jesus’ wisdom was inseparable from God’s Word (Luke 4:4). – Memorize short passages; let them shape tone and content. 5. Respond, Don’t React – Proverbs 15:1: “A gentle answer turns away wrath.” – Pause, pray silently, then answer. 6. Value Every Person – Proverbs 25:11: “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold.” – Choose words that honor the image of God in others. 7. Aim for Edification – 2 Timothy 2:24-25 calls the Lord’s servant to be “kind to everyone … able to teach … gentle.” – Ask, “Will this comment build up their faith or knowledge?” Practicing This Week • Set aside five minutes before breakfast to read a Gospel passage; note one conversation of Jesus to imitate. • During one interaction each day, intentionally ask at least one genuine, open-ended question. • When tempted to blurt a quick reply, silently quote James 1:19, then proceed. • End the day reviewing conversations: where did you reflect Jesus’ wisdom? Where can you grow? Verses to Keep Handy |
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