In Rebekah Simon-Peter’s book, Dream Like Jesus, she writes, and the end of the paragraph on page 95, “It also took maturing in faith, understanding, and emotional intelligence.” These are 3 different and complementary aspects of wisdom. Here are definitions of each and why/how they complement one another (to help us accomplish things and overcome obstacles).
Definitions
Faith
Faith is confident trust directed toward a person, principle, or outcome that cannot be fully proven or controlled. It enables action in uncertainty by answering the question, “What am I willing to commit myself to?” Faith is not blind optimism; it is a settled confidence that sustains perseverance when evidence is incomplete. Unlike understanding, faith does not primarily analyze. Unlike emotional intelligence, it does not primarily manage feelings. Faith supplies motivation and courage—the willingness to move forward despite risk, delay, or opposition.
Understanding
Understanding is the grasp of meaning, relationships, causes, and consequences. It involves knowledge, insight, and reasoning—knowing why something works and how it fits within a larger context. Understanding answers the question, “What is actually going on?” It differs from faith in that it relies on evidence and logic rather than trust, and from emotional intelligence in that it focuses on ideas and systems rather than people and emotions. Understanding provides clarity and direction, helping decisions be wise rather than merely hopeful.
Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, interpret, regulate, and respond appropriately to emotions—both one’s own and those of others. It answers the question, “How are emotions affecting behavior and relationships right now?” Unlike faith, it does not determine ultimate commitment. Unlike understanding, it does not analyze abstract truth. Emotional intelligence provides relational wisdom, enabling cooperation, resilience, self-control, and empathy. It allows people to navigate stress, conflict, and motivation without being ruled by emotional reactions.
How They Complement One Another
Faith, understanding, and emotional intelligence function best together because each addresses a different human need. Faith supplies commitment and perseverance—the courage to begin and continue. Understanding provides discernment and strategy—the wisdom to choose the right path and avoid costly errors. Emotional intelligence supplies stability and connection—the ability to manage pressure, work with others, and adapt when plans strain relationships or morale.
Without understanding, faith becomes reckless. Without faith, understanding stalls in analysis. Without emotional intelligence, both faith and understanding are undermined by unmanaged fear, pride, or conflict. Together, they form a balanced approach: faith moves forward, understanding guides the way, and emotional intelligence keeps the journey sustainable and relationally healthy.
