“By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established.”

I read a newspaper article yesterday about a woman who recently learned she has cancer and will not live past a year. In the article she talked about feeling ripped off, and then she mentioned an uncle she was angry with and had no relationship with because he held different political views. I was bewildered. She knows that within a year she will no longer be here, yet she is choosing to hold on to things that will only bring sadness and brokenness during those remaining months. Solomon challenges us in this verse to choose God’s wisdom as the guide for building our families and impacting the generations we will leave behind. That is a high calling and an incredible privilege. As we move into the holiday season, we will hopefully spend time with family we don’t always see. Wisdom encourages us to share the fruit of the Spirit with one another. God desires that we focus on the eternal. Whatever political positions you hold or grudges you’ve carried for years—none of them will matter in eternity. Many of us have witnessed loss in the past year that reminds us that eternity truly is just a wisp away. During this holiday season, it would be a blessing if we all committed to choosing the higher way of God and His wisdom, avoiding the ugliness of meaningless battles. Perhaps this is even the time to reach out to someone who has been distant or estranged. Today, let wisdom and understanding guide your relationships. #BeTheEdge

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” —Jesus