This morning, the topic of Wisdom is heavy on my heart and mind.
It’s quite possible that it’s because I had been tasked with praying for wisdom for our church group. Or, that I had also started a devotion centered on wisdom. Whatever the reasoning, this morning I am deeply pondering wisdom, but not as the world sees it, as the Bible speaks on it.
A quick Google search of ‘how many decisions do adults make a day’, turned in a surprising answer. ‘The average adult makes about 35,000 decisions each day’. What? How?
When you pause to think about the magnitude of decisions we make, it’s astounding.
I think we can all agree that not every decision and outcome carry the same weight.
Some decisions will have a far more reaching impact. Some will last for a fleeting moment. The key is to discern which ones will be just for the moment, and which ones will be longer lasting.
I have many favorite Bible stories, so, if you’ve read twenty different favorite versions of Bible stories and scriptures from me, they really are my favorites, just at different moments.
With that said, one of my favorite Bible stories is when Solomon thought He was in a dream and God asked him what he desired. He was around 20, and had just become king. He knew that there was a lot he didn’t know, and so, in his response, he asked for wisdom to lead God’s people. The response was: because he had not asked for wealth or long life or death of his enemies, he would be granted wisdom and a discerning heart. 1 Kings 3.
I smile at the bonus God threw in too, because of his wise request, Solomon was also gifted with riches and honor.
James 1:5 states: ‘If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him’
Proverbs 4:7 states ‘Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding’
Today, I don’t know what decision you have to make (of the 35,000), but I would encourage you before you do, to pause and ask God for wisdom to make the right decisions. Sometimes, you might be surprised at the response. Sometimes, it might be to hold your tongue when you’d rather speak out. Sometimes, it might be go when your desire is to stay. Sometimes, it might be to stay when your desire is to go.
The key? Ensuring that you ask for wisdom, and pausing long enough to listen to the response.
Dear Heavenly Father, I remain so grateful for your love and care. Would you give us a discerning heart just like you did with Solomon? Would you allow us to hold on to your promises that you are faithful and if we ask for anything in your name, that you will grant it to us? Today, we ask for wisdom and we know that you delight in giving this to us.