The Best Request

3-11-2010

Here's a great one from Wisdom Hunters!

The Best Request… “I will give you what you asked, I will give you a wise and discerning heart…” 1 Kings 3: 12 a

The wisdom of God goes beyond your ability to understand right and wrong. Wisdom transcends uncertainty in areas that may be unclear and murky. Wisdom asks, why do you want to do want you want to do? What is your motive? Is your drive to succeed for you, or do you strive for excellence, because it is the Lord’s expectation for you?

Wisdom sees opportunities as options to further God’s Kingdom, rather than a way to expand self-appointed power and status. The Lord is looking for other-centered people whose heart’s desire is to obey Him. Yes, books can increase your knowledge, but only God can bestow wisdom. Knowledge that just feeds pride and ego misses wisdom.

People are not impressed by what you know. They are attracted to what you do with what you know. Wisdom applies God’s perspective by transforming the human worldview. For example, you decide not to marry someone because it is not the wise thing to do. They are a nice person, intelligent; financially secure and even religious, but they lack an unselfish commitment to you and God. Wisdom waits for what’s best.

Thus, wisdom comes from God and it’s received through a heart of character. The Lord does not entrust His thoughts with someone who will prostitute His wisdom for wrong purposes. He looks for a heart of humility and honesty. A wise person prays to God and says, “I need you and I need your direction. Without your wisdom, I am lost and unclear in your ways”. Humility is the gateway to wisdom and honesty applies it well.

Your humility means you are teachable to learn from God. Your honesty means you will use God’s wisdom in an honorable way. Wisdom can be used to settle disputes between individuals or organizations. It can serve you in becoming an expert in your field. Wisdom takes knowledge, and, like paint in the hands of a gifted artist, creates beauty.

Wisdom leads you in your decision making process, so you are consistent to ask, “What is the wise thing to do?” You search the Scriptures daily and God fills your heart with wisdom. You enjoy the company of wise people; learn from their mistakes and from their wise choices. Wisdom is not microwavable, for it comes over time. Be patient. Talk to God about your need for wisdom, as He gives freely to all who ask with a humble heart.

“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” (James 1:5).

Am I wise to seek the Lord’s wisdom and the wisdom of His humble servants? What is the wise thing to do right now?

Related Readings: 2 Chronicles 1:11-12; Daniel 2:23; Mark 6:3; Ephesians 1:17