What does it mean to you to answer a question wisely? When someone acknowledges you have answered wisely, do you feel good? Are you appreciative that they noticed? Does it encourage you to answer wisely again? Is this true when you give an answer about God?
We take a variety of tests as we progress through school. Many of us take a variety of tests to be certified for our jobs. Those tests require specific answers. When someone else asks us to pontificate on a particular issue, we may answer emotionally rather than wisely.
An answer is wise if it has significant thought put into it. It requires research and knowledge mixed with the thought. It includes considering multiple viewpoints and perspectives. A wise answer provides insight to an issue others may not have thought about. It also is a truthful answer.
Jesus was asked what the greatest commandment was and answered by giving the two great commandments—love God and love neighbor. The scribe, or lawyer, replied that Jesus was correct in giving His answer. He added they are more important than burnt offerings. Jesus then told the scribe he was not far from the kingdom of God. Jesus had seen the man had answered wisely.
We should also think about the truths Jesus stated, ponder them, and learn from them. Jesus taught great lessons that are meant for us to think about and discern how we can apply them in our lives. When we apply them, we are acting wisely, and Jesus acknowledges it. We may not see Him acknowledge it in the same way. Yet, Jesus blesses us as we wisely use His teachings.
As we act wisely and speak wisely according to Jesus’ standard, we step closer to the kingdom of God. We take another step toward living as Jesus would have us live. As we begin living more as Jesus wants us to live, we begin living the abundant life He came to give us.
I pray we all seek to learn Jesus’ teachings. I pray we discern how to apply His teachings in our lives. I pray each one of us will act wisely and live the abundant life Jesus intended for us to live. Learn from Jesus. Apply His teachings in your life. Act wisely. Live the abundant life.
Mark 12:34 When Jesus saw that he answered wisely, he said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.”
Marty Pressey 