When and Where Do You Go for Wisdom?
We live in an information age; so much is literally at our fingertips. However, all this information is not often translating into deeper and more fulfilled lives. This is because knowledge doesn’t really help people that much. It actually has a potential to harm; it can lead to pride or a false sense of security. “Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.” (1 Corinthians 8:1) Knowledge is only helpful if it is caringly and practically applied in real life situations. Love-filled application of knowledge is wisdom.
Wisdom always includes a “godward” dimension. Proverbs 9:10 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” In other words, the only way to understand how life works is in God. All understanding is ultimately birthed in Him.
As we know, God’s ways are often quite different from the ways we would naturally choose. His ways can seem to be slower and at times more convoluted than our ways – or at least how we imagine our ways to be. And, God’s ways often include hardship, suffering or pain. This can be a “hard pill to swallow” for many of us.
How can a loving God not only allow hardship and suffering, but incorporate it in our lives for our good? This question is difficult and could be considered extensively. However, one thing is clear; God uses difficulties to get our attention and to teach us His ways. This is one of the most important lessons we all must learn (and of which we need to be constantly reminded) in life. The book of Psalms repeats this theme many times over, and we see it exemplified in the lives of many biblical characters.
Once we realize that God uses the hardships of our lives to teach us about Him and what He is doing, we are well on our way to acquiring wisdom in increasing measure. This is why James wrote, “Consider it pure joy … whenever you face trials of many kinds.” (James 1:3-4) With trials come confusion, and this is often God’s design. It is in the midst of trial that God wants us to look up and call to Him for wisdom. “If any of you lacks wisdom [amidst your trial/s], ask God … and it will be given to you.” (James 1:5) God wants to give you wisdom, and it is in His nature to do so; but He needs your attention and a teachable heart. Difficulties and hardships are the most common crock pots God uses to cook a godward focus and a teachable heart within you.
If you will seek God’s wisdom instead of escape amidst your trials, you will deepen and grow in the things of His Kingdom. This practical and loving wisdom will also be of great benefit to others around you – guaranteed!
Asking for Wisdom With You,
Pastor Tom
tgriffith@rolcboston.org
