30 August 2022

For what human being knows what is truly human except the human spirit that is within? So also no one comprehends what is truly God’s except the Spirit of God. Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit that is from God, so that we may understand the gifts bestowed on us by God. And we speak of these things in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual things to those who are spiritual.

From 1 Corinthians 2:10-16, NRSV

In this reading, Paul is writing to the Corinthians about the difference between human wisdom and the spiritual wisdom that comes from God. Paul tells the Corinthians that they have received the Spirit that is from God so that they do not have to rely only on their human understanding. What he seems to be trying to convey is something about the depth of a spiritual understanding of things. At one level, there is no real distinction – everything comes from God. At another, it is clear that there are limits to what we can see and hear and know – things beyond what we can perceive with our senses. This takes a bit of humility to admit – to stand before reality and know that there is so much more that we can only come to know through an openness to the Spirit revealing it to us.

• • Why does Paul want the people of Corinth to understand that they have spiritual as well as human understanding?
  • When has spiritual understanding helped you to understand how God is at work in your life?

Take a bit of time today to look at a view – a flower – a person – or to listen to some music or other sounds. Reflect that there is much more to each than you are able to see or hear and be open to what might come as you gaze or listen.