The spiritual gifts of shepherding and wisdom

The gift of shepherding refers to the Spirit-empowered ability to help others grow spiritually.

Shepherding and pastoring are the same Greek word, which can be confusing. Sometimes “pastor” as a title is misleading because sometimes “pastors” tend toward leadership, preaching, teaching, etc.

Those with the gift of shepherding usually do so in small groups of people. They thrive in personal settings that allow them to pour into the spiritual growth of a group.

It can be taxing for spiritual shepherds because it feels like their well-being rests on them. It doesn’t. If you have the gift of shepherding, make sure you ultimately trust those in your flock to Christ.

On the other hand, shepherds receive great joy from seeing people hit milestones in life and grow in faith with Christ. Make sure your motivation is rooted in stirring them to Christ, not for your own success or pride.

For others, remember that shepherds cannot always be available. Call on pastors when in moments of spiritual need, but remember that they must tend to a whole flock and won’t be perfect. Affirm shepherds in their gifts, and thank them for the sometimes-background role they take in your life.

For an example of shepherding, read about Barnabas in Acts 9:26–30.

Wisdom relates biblical truth to practical life with great effectiveness.

Wisdom can be thought of as the skill of living life well. Remember: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10).

While knowledge refers to understanding, wisdom deals in direct application. The Bible is not a present step-by-step instruction manual; rather, it provides deep truths about God, the gospel, and life, pointing us to Jesus in all things. How to live out the Christian faith will be unique to each person. Because of this, wisdom is critical.

You can easily confuse your own wisdom, fooling yourself with manmade wisdom. Remember, possessing wisdom is not the same as acting on it. So, even if you speak Spirit-inspired wisdom over yourself and others, the results may not always match God’s best. Building up the body means sometimes people will reject you or not listen; don’t rub it in their faces or hold grudges. It’s God’s message anyways, not yours.

For others, seek wisdom. First, seek it in the Bible and from the Spirit himself. Wise living is built up over time and repetition. Listen to those with the spiritual gift of wisdom who can point you to Jesus. Don’t feel foolish for reaching out for wisdom. In fact, simply by seeking wisdom, you show yourself wise. Trust the Lord and seek words of wisdom like precious gold; don’t neglect it from other people.

Solomon displays wisdom from God in 1 Kings 3:5–27.