Gentle Wisdom

"Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior 

his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom."

James 3:13

We may have a lot of knowledge, but unless it is applied properly it does not equate with wisdom. True wisdom mirrors godliness. Proverbs 9:10 says "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." So wisdom begins with reverence for God and a desire to live in a way that pleases Him. As we study God's word and communicate with Him through prayer, the Holy Spirit teaches us all we need to know about how to live in godliness. The more we yield to the Spirit's teaching, the more we comprehend how to apply the knowledge we have gained in gentleness. This is fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23). We can't possess wisdom without Him.

Stay Close

"Teach me Your way, O LORD, 

And lead me in a level path 

Because of my foes."

Psalm 27:11

A few days ago I snapped this photo of a mother elk and her baby. They had just passed a barking dog.  Although a fence separated the canine from the elk, the mother hurried to safer ground with the baby following close behind. When she stopped, her little one stopped. When she turned to the right, he did the same. The little elk knew the safest place to be was right beside mama. She would lead him away from harm. She would teach him how to avoid dangerous situations. This reminds me to stay close to the Lord and pay attention to His teaching. His words of wisdom keep me out of trouble.  They lead me to a safe haven. 

Stay Teachable

"He is on the path of life who heeds instruction,

         But he who ignores reproof goes astray." 

Proverbs 10:17

Much of the wisdom I thought I had as a young person turned out to be quite foolish. If I had heeded the advice of the more mature, I would have avoided the pain of poor choices.  By the grace of God, one of the greatest lessons He taught me through my stubbornness is to remain teachable. I don't want to be just a hearer of His word, but a doer" (James 1:22). This, I know, is the path to joy and peace in my life.

A Big Heart

"I shall run the way of Your commandments, For You will enlarge my heart." 

Psalm 119:32

Those who love the Lord, love His word. They are eager to hear and obey it. Obeying God is not burdensome for them, for they understand that His precepts are meant for their own good. There is great freedom that comes from knowing this. Through His spirit, God enlarges the believer's heart with wisdom, so that they have a greater capacity to love Him and follow His commands.