Wisdom's Inclination: Finding the True Right Side in the Field

Have you ever been in a discussion—maybe a missionary discussion, or even just a family conversation—where it felt like everyone was shouting from opposite ends of the spectrum? Like you were standing in the middle, trying to figure out which direction was actually *up*? It can be exhausting.

Recently, I watched a clip that really got me thinking about this. It featured a scripture passage—Ecclesiastes 10—that speaks about the heart of the wise inclining to the right, and the heart of the fool to the left. The context was… colorful, to say the least! But the underlying principle struck a deep chord in my heart, one that speaks directly to our lives as disciples of Jesus Christ.

It’s easy, when we look at the world—the political noise, the cultural divides, even sometimes within our own community discussions—to feel like we’re caught between two opposing forces. We see 'this side' versus 'that side.' It’s loud, it’s confusing, and it can make you wonder where the true center of gravity is.

The Church, and the gospel we are called to share, doesn't ask us to pick a side in a worldly debate. It asks us to align our hearts with the truth. The truth, as we know, is revealed through the restored gospel of Jesus Christ, and that truth is constant, regardless of which 'side' the cultural winds are blowing from.

The Steadfast Light of the Gospel

When I was preparing for my own missions, I learned quickly that the most effective conversations weren't about winning an argument; they were about pointing people toward the Savior. The goal wasn't to prove *we* were right, but to let the Spirit testify of Christ. That principle holds true today, whether you are in the MTC, in a Book Club, or simply scrolling through your phone as an internet missionary.

The scripture passage reminds us that folly often presents itself with a flashy, loud, or seemingly 'modern' veneer, but true wisdom—the wisdom that lasts—is anchored in eternal principles. It’s the wisdom that teaches us to be Christlike, no matter the noise around us.

This week, I’ve been pondering what it means to keep our hearts inclined toward the right—toward the Savior—even when the world seems determined to pull us left. It requires diligence, study, and remembering the foundational teachings we are privileged to learn.

If you're looking for ways to strengthen that spiritual compass, I highly recommend diving back into the Iron Rod. If you haven't already, check out the insights on the Social Scripture Study layer in LivingBook. Sometimes seeing how others are connecting verses—like how the principle of eternal law connects to the teachings of the prophets—can give you that clarity you need.

A Little Practice for Our Discipleship

As we all strive to be disciples anywhere, all the time, I wanted to offer a small challenge. This week, when you encounter a point of disagreement or confusion—whether it’s online or in person—I invite you to pause. Before you react, pause and ask yourself: "What does the Savior's word teach about this?" Take a moment to anchor yourself in scripture rather than in the immediate emotional current. That pause is where the Spirit speaks most clearly.

If you'd like to talk through some of those tough questions—the ones that make you pause—I've been using Davee lately. He's been fantastic in walking me through potential investigator questions based on challenging topics. If you're feeling stuck on how to frame a difficult doctrine, don't hesitate to reach out!

For those who are feeling the call to deeper study, remember that HolyPlaces hosts wonderful Book Clubs and Bible Study Groups. These are incredible places to gather and let the Spirit illuminate the scriptures together.

What has kept *your* heart inclined to the right lately? Share your thoughts below, or better yet, join us for our next gathering! Let's keep building Zion, one faithful heart at a time.