Heather Cofer

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Faith and Wisdom: An Exquisite Duo

11 Mar

Do you have a theme that seems to continually stand out to you as you read in Scripture, or one that feels very close to your heart?

For me, that would be wisdom. I’ve read through the book of Proverbs more times than I can count, and it still comes alive for me with each new perusal (maybe more so every time). I never tire of hearing about, studying, or learning to live out this topic. Wisdom applies so directly to practical, daily life, which is probably why I gravitate toward this so much; I definitely tend to be a practical sort of person.

I’m sure this contributes to the fact that one of my most cherished “lifeline” verses is James 1:5 (and if you’ve been a reader here long enough you’ll almost certainly have seen it in other posts). 

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” 

I don’t like this verse just because it sounds good: this verse has proven to be true again and again as I have asked God for wisdom in every sphere of life. He has shown Himself to be faithful to His word. 

Wisdom, Faith, or Both?

It struck me recently after reflecting on a number of conversations throughout the years that there seems to be a trend: Christians have the proclivity toward focusing more on either faith or wisdom. Those of us who lean toward the wisdom side can sometimes downplay the importance of faith in everyday life (again, going back to that practicality element). Conversely, those who are drawn to the subject of living by faith can sometimes downplay the role wisdom is supposed to have practically in the life of a believer. 

In short, we can either tend to be over-practical or over-spiritual.

But are these two at odds with each other? Absolutely not. 

If you continue to read past James 1:5 (above) to verse 6, it says,

“But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.”

This is a wonderful illustration of how faith and wisdom work together. True wisdom can only come from God, and begins with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). But this ultimately starts with being grounded in faith: believing God is who He says He is and placing our trust in Him (Romans 1:16-17). For the believer, faith and wisdom go hand-in-hand. 

Without faith, there can be no true wisdom. And faith is evidenced by a life full of God-given wisdom.

So, how do faith and wisdom work together in our everyday life? 

Defining Faith and Wisdom

First, let’s define faith and wisdom according to the Bible.

Faith is: “The assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1)

Faith is believing and walking in the reality of truth we cannot see: that there is a triune God, that Jesus died for our sins, that the Holy Spirit dwells inside followers of Jesus, that God is going before us and will never leave us on our own, and that one day we will see Him face-to-face (to name a few). We believe these not because we have tangible evidence in front of our physical eyes, but because we believe the Bible to be the inerrant Word of God. And, as we choose to believe and walk in them, we experience the realness of these unseen truths more and more with each passing day. 

It’s a bit harder to find a verse that defines exactly what wisdom is, but I think Charles Spurgeon summarizes it quite well: 

“Wisdom is the right use of knowledge.”

In essence, wisdom is taking what we know, and applying it correctly to everyday life. Someone can be very, very knowledgeable about a certain subject, even knowing many facts about something like the Bible. But unless we are diligent to seek God for wisdom, we will veer from applying this knowledge—or any knowledge—correctly.  

“Wisdom is the right use of knowledge.”

Charles Spurgeon

What Walking in Faith is Not

Judah and I have had many conversations with others who are wrestling with what walking in faith really means (we’ve had to wrestle through it ourselves, too). Often, these people feel directionless and stagnant because they are waiting around for God to drop a lightning bolt showing them what the next step in their lives is supposed to look like. They are afraid that if they choose one of a few good options that are in front of them without being absolutely certain it’s the right choice, they will be in disobedience to the Lord. But that’s actually not what walking in faith means. Walking in faith often requires taking steps forward; unsure of exactly what the outcome might be, but spurred on and motivated by the fear of the Lord (Hebrews 11 is a great passage on this). 

Where Wisdom and Faith Meet

When walking in faith requires us taking two roads that both seem as though they would be honoring to the Lord, this is exactly the time when God wants us to apply the knowledge He has given us—both through His Word and in the world around us—with wisdom. Too often we think in terms of right and wrong when, really, neither might necessarily be wrong. In these situations we should instead be thinking in terms of “which of these seems wiser?” 

I often use the following example: 

When I am going about a normal day, I have a list of things that need to be accomplished, all of them good and important tasks. These might include folding laundry, picking up groceries, replying to an email, and changing the sheets on the beds. But I don’t sit back and wait for a “sign from the Lord” as to which of these I should do first, or second, or third. I’m not afraid that I’ll be disobedient if I choose to go grocery shopping when, maybe, I should have folded the laundry. That’s because, I know that all of these things I’m doing are under the banner of a life of faith. They are good tasks that I am called to in this season of my life. It is wisdom that informs my decisions as to what the next right thing is in that moment. This doesn’t mean God can’t step in supernaturally and make it exceedingly clear that He wants me to do one of these things over the other – sometimes He does. But that isn’t the norm, it’s the exception. 

Now, I know there are some life decisions that hold far more weight than whether we choose to fold laundry or pick up groceries: who we marry, vocation choices, whether we do overseas missions, and so on. However, we can still take this same principle and apply it to these bigger choices we’re faced with. We examine ourselves to be sure we’re walking in biblically-defined faith (2 Corinthians 13:5), and then we ask God for wisdom as we move forward. God will usually bring clarity, but often it is after we have chosen to take a step in faith informed by wisdom. 

Here are a few ways I’ve found to be very helpful in deepening in my understanding of how faith and wisdom work together.

1. Fix Your Eyes on Christ, Not on Your Decisions

When we have significant decisions to make, it can be very easy to become hyper-focused on figuring out that decision. But some of the most valuable advice my husband and I have received from godly mentors in our lives is to fix our eyes on Christ, not on the decision. When our focus is primarily on the decision, it can cause anxiety, confusion, and spiritual near-sightedness. But when our eyes are on God, we can rest in His faithfulness, love, and direction. When He is our focus, we remember the ways He has led us in the past, and believe His promise to make our path clear as we trust in Him (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Practically, how might this look? For us, it has often meant a deliberate choice to commit the decision to Him, then do the next right in front of us right now (which usually is a “normal” thing like changing a diaper or making a meal). It might then include intentionally expressing gratitude for His displays of goodness. It may be purposefully meditating on the Gospel, returning to the fundamentals of our lives as believers. It also probably will include delighting in the practical joys of life like time with friends and family. And, most likely, it is some mix of all of them! 

Ask the Lord what fixing your eyes on Him in this season looks like on a daily, practical level as you anticipate upcoming decisions in your life.

When our eyes are on God, we can rest in His faithfulness, love, and direction.

2. Study Faith and Wisdom

We hear the words “faith” and “wisdom” used in a myriad of contexts and ways today that can cause confusion as to what they truly mean. But we need look no further than the Bible to give us a correct understanding of these topics and how they apply to our lives. 

You could start by doing a word study on each of these (in the ESV there are 278 uses of “faith” and 213 uses of “wisdom.” That will keep us busy for a while). 

Note the various ways these words are used. Consider the contexts. Ask God to sink these truths deeply into your heart and mind, and to give you understanding. He will not leave you hanging. 

“My son, if you receive my words and treasure up my commandments with you, making your ear attentive to wisdom
and inclining your heart to understanding;
yes, if you call out for insight
and raise your voice for understanding,
if you seek it like silver
and search for it as for hidden treasures,
then you will understand the fear of the LORD
and find the knowledge of God.
For the LORD gives wisdom;
from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”

Proverbs 2:1-6

“And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.”

Hebrews 11:6

One of Judah’s and my favorite sayings is, “Do what you do in faith.” And I’m gonna add something to that: “Do what you do in faith informed by wisdom.” 

God is the one who grants us the grace to walk by faith, and the one who provides wisdom as we seek to live in faithful obedience in every sphere of life. It is all from Him, through Him, and unto Him. And He will be faithful to sustain us and guide us until the day we see Him face-to-face.

Your friend,

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Melody and harmony. I was listening to a one of m Melody and harmony.

I was listening to a one of my favorite artists recently, delighting in their musical beauty. At one point the voice that usually sings harmony sang part of the melody instead, strongly and skillfully; and in that moment it dawned on me:

You have to first know a melody to sing it’s harmony.

Melody and harmony have differences in their notes, but a true harmony will enhance the melody, not fight with it. And they must work perfectly with one another—otherwise it goes from stunning to cringe-worthy in moments.

In the world today there are lots of movements and worldviews and organizations that are being proclaimed as harmonious with the melody of the Gospel (according to the Bible). In reality, though, they aren’t. Maybe if someone doesn’t truly know gospel these could pass as harmonious. Or, if someone tweaks the melody or chooses to ignore the sharp or flat notes, you could say they sound good together. Sometimes, yes, they sound like they fit for a few notes before going wonky. But those who are intent on being faithful to knowing and enhancing the melody—the *true* melody—will not be fooled. The dissonance will be apparent, even if subtle, and won’t be claimed as harmonious for long.

But those ministries and movements who *are* truly harmonious with the melody of the gospel are beautifully obvious. They are working to advance the Kingdom on earth in a way that enhances the tried and true refrain of God’s story. They do not need to tweak what the Bible says; they join with countless voices that have been singing for ages and generations past to harmonize with what always has been and always will be the most beautiful anthem of truth.

May our lives alway be in genuine harmony with the melody of the gospel.
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#pondering #truth #harmony #melody #lookingtoJesus #thegospel #Christcenteredliving #Christcenteredwomanhood #music
It’s been almost one year since the launch of th It’s been almost one year since the launch of this book—how is that possible?! It’s been a joy-filled process, and one full of learning curves. The Lord has displayed His faithfulness and kindness many times over as I’ve received encouragement and messages from those of you who have read it and been blessed by it. Praise Him!
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One of my hopes and prayers has been that there would be 1000 copies out in the world by its first birthday. It would be quite a stretch at this point, but if you’ve been considering buying this for yourself or someone else, now would be the perfect time to do so (the link is in my bio). 
Or, if you have read the book and were blessed by it, would you consider leaving a review on Amazon or Goodreads? This goes a long way in helping it become more visible to expectant mamas who would be encouraged by the message in its pages (marketing is *not* my thing, guys, but my husband tells me it’s still important 😉).
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Thank you, thank you to each one of you who have bought the book, shared it with others, and left reviews. I know the Lord can be trusted to get this book into the hands of every person who need a fresh reminder to look to Him in the season of pregnancy.
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Also: stay tuned for a fun giveaway coming up to celebrate the one year mark! 🥳
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#expectant #pregnancy #Christcenteredpregnancy #expectantbook #pregnancyresource #oneyear
Purity in every sphere of life is an outflow of a Purity in every sphere of life is an outflow of a heart that has been transformed by our Savior. No rules, no self-effort can make us pure, only Jesus can. And, praise Him: He can!
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(Newest blog post ‘Love and Legalism: Reflections on “Purity Culture”’ at the link in my bio)
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#lookingtoJesus #purity #thegospelchangeseverything #purityculture #biblicalwomanhood #Christcenteredwomanhood #family #Christianfamily #love #biblicallove #sanctification #graceupongrace #Jesusplusnothing
True purity can only be an outflow of a heart that True purity can only be an outflow of a heart that has been purified by the shed blood of Christ. When kids grow up hearing only about outward rules rather than inward transformation, they will certainly grow disillusioned. They will quickly realize as they face the reality of their sexual brokenness that the only way to maintain this outward facade is to be hypocritical, because their hearts have not been changed. And eventually they may throw it all out, because they have been relying on their own effort rather than the hope of the gospel. But when kids are taught to love God first and foremost—when He becomes their passion and pursuit—this is where they will gain a solid foundation and framework on which their theology of purity will stand fast.

New post on the blog! Love and Legalism: Reflections on “Purity Culture”

Link to full post in bio. 💕
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#ontheblog #purity #purityculture #biblicalwomanhood #sexualpurity #Christcenteredwomanhood #Christcenteredliving #bloggersofinstagram #Christianblog #womanhoodblog #love #legalism
In the days before Easter I was reading the events In the days before Easter I was reading the events leading up to and surrounding Jesus’ death. In Luke 22:31-32, while Jesus is having His last supper with his disciples, he says this to Peter,

“Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail...”

Is there anything Jesus could have said or done that demonstrates the power of prayer more clearly than this?

Jesus could’ve flat out rebuked Satan. He could’ve just said, “No, you can’t have him.” And Satan would’ve had to submit. But what did Jesus do? He prayed, setting us an example, and in the process made a significant statement about how effectual prayer truly is.

How often do we neglect prayer to try other means of fixing problems? How often do we worry when we could simply bring our cares to Him? How often do we turn to human solutions rather than turning to our Almighty, all-knowing, all-loving Heavenly Father?

I want to be more quick to follow the example of my Savior; to trust that if God says He hears, He hears, and acts on our behalf. I want to make the statement with my lips and life that my hope is ultimately in God, not in myself or any other place.

May prayer be our first turn, today and every day.
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#lookingtoJesus #prayer #theBible #Christcenteredwomanhood
Feeling extra-thankful for this sister-in-love tod Feeling extra-thankful for this sister-in-love today. She brought her first child into the world earlier this week under some scary circumstances, and is now walking through her first days of motherhood with her tiny son in the NICU.

I’m so proud of her and her husband as they cling to the Lord and display such peace in Him.

Please pray for my precious nephew and his parents as they come to mind; that his little body would heal, that his lungs would grow strong, and that they would be able to bring him home soon.
Several weeks ago some dear friends and a family m Several weeks ago some dear friends and a family member experienced really scary scenarios on the same day, both of which could have ended badly; fatally. I praise God that both situations had relief-worthy outcomes, but it got me thinking about the question that so many grapple with:

How could a loving God let bad things happen to good people?

It struck me afresh—we as Christians have the only answer that holds true, eternal hope.

To understand, though, we have to start at the beginning.

God made us and this world, sinless and whole. He could have created us without a choice to love and obey Him—essentially like robots—but being made in His image, He gave us a choice. And we disobeyed. Sin and suffering entered the world because of *us,* not because of God.

And God, being perfectly just, could have rightly allowed us to suffer the eternal punishment for our rebellion against Him. But: He is also perfectly loving. And His justice and love were displayed by taking the punishment for our sin upon Himself. Jesus died in our place, then defeated sin and death by rising again.

Now, anyone who believes in Him is invited into this eternal hope through Jesus. We’re welcomed into His righteousness, giving us something far greater to anticipate beyond this life. The sin and suffering in this broken world are not the end for the followers of Jesus. We have glory awaiting us that will far outweigh even the deepest of suffering we experience now (Romans 8:18). 

When we understand the Gospel, does it diminish the pain here and now? No. But it moves us from the first question to this one:

//Amazing love, how can it be, 
that you, my King, would die for me?//

Because we have a loving God, sin, suffering, and sorrow don’t have the final say. Grief and death will be swallowed in victory. And one day, we’ll experience that resolution in God’s loving, perfect, presence forever and ever. We have hope.
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#lookingtoJesus #ponderings #thegospelchangeseverything
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