Led by Wisdom, Not by Worry

A Reflection on the First Reading for Sunday, September 7th, 2025:
Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

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Wisdom
9.13-18

For who can learn the counsel of God?
Or who can discern what the Lord wills?
For the reasoning of mortals is worthless,
and our designs are likely to fail;
for a perishable body weighs down the soul,
and this earthly tent burdens the thoughtful mind.

We can hardly guess at what is on earth,
and what is at hand we find with labour;
but who has traced out what is in the heavens?
Who has learned your counsel,
unless you have given wisdom
and sent your holy spirit from on high?

And thus the paths of those on earth were set right,
and people were taught what pleases you,
and were saved by wisdom.

Pause. Pray. Reflect.

Every time I write my reflection for Ora, the verse I’m assigned seems to be exactly what I need the most. The overwhelming feelings I’ve had lately are so easily taking over, yet this verse from the Book of Wisdom is a humble reminder of how limited my understanding is, especially when it comes to God’s plan. 

As women – whether we are daughters, mothers, sisters, wives, or friends – we often feel the pressure to "have it all figured out." We juggle responsibilities, nurture relationships, build careers, and guide others, sometimes while silently wrestling with uncertainty or fear. I know I certainly do this, and lately it seems almost daily. 

As a mother, I often catch myself trying to plan every detail – from daily schedules to my daughter’s future – believing that with enough preparation, I can shape the perfect outcome. But Wisdom reminds us that even our best reasoning can fall short. The things of Earth –  worry, perfectionism, control – weigh down our minds and cloud our ability to truly listen for God’s voice.

And yet, there is hope!
 
God does not expect us to navigate this life on our own. He offers us wisdom, not as something we earn, but as something He gives us through the Holy Spirit. As women of faith, we are called not to carry the weight of the world, but to walk in trust – to lead, nurture, and serve from a place of surrender rather than self-sufficiency.

In the quiet moments – rocking a newborn to sleep, comforting a friend, praying over a difficult decision – we are invited into a holy partnership with God. It's in these everyday acts that we live out our call to faith. Not because we always know the way, but because we are willing to follow the One who does.

So today, let us pray for the grace to release our grip on control, and to invite the Holy Spirit into our hearts and homes. Let us model faith not as certainty but as courage – the courage to trust God’s wisdom, especially when our own understanding falls short.




Shelly Fillmore​

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