Scripture
‘We sought out the disciples there and stayed with them seven days. Through the Spirit they urged Paul not to go on to Jerusalem.
After we had been there a number of days, a prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. Coming over to us, he took Paul’s belt, tied his own hands and feet with it and said, “The Holy Spirit says, ‘In this way the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem will bind the owner of this belt and will hand him over to the Gentiles.’ ” When we heard this, we and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem. ‘ Acts 21:4,10-12
https://my.bible.com/bible/111/ACT.21.4,10-12
Observation
The believers were in tune with the Holy Spirit, and the Spirit revealed to them what Paul’s fate would be in Jerusalem.They had facts, but not guidance. They had knowledge, but not wisdom. They had insight, but not understanding. Unfortunately they did not listen to the Spirit to understand what to do with this knowledge, and began to beg Paul to act in a way that was contrary to God’s leading. God had already confirmed to Paul that he desired him to go to Jerusalem.Paul did not give in to their urging, because he understood the true purpose of what God had revealed. The knowledge had been given not as a warning, but as a reassurance of God’s presence as Paul entered this dark season in his life.
Application
We live in the age of information. There are few facts that cannot be known, if one has a desire to know them. Unfortunately all of this knowledge does not come with wisdom pre-packaged. I must be careful each day, to take time to communicate with the Holy Spirit, to have the right understanding in applying the knowledge that I have. Proverbs 2:6 makes it clear that God is the source of wisdom. This week I am faced with a dilemma. I have knowledge, but not understanding. I have learned some hard facts, but I do not feel that I yet have wisdom about how to respond to them. I need to listen closely to God, to react and respond in His way, and with His heart.
Prayer
God, thank you for being the source of wisdom in my life. Help me to remember in each situation, to seek not only knowledge….but also understanding. Please guide me specifically this week, and give me insight how to respond according to Your heart and Your plans. Thank you for your presence and your leading in my life!