As we close out this 4-part wisdom series, let’s review quickly what we have learned so far. Upon recognizing our lack of wisdom, we can go directly to the Source and ask for it. In our asking, we must have faith without doubting because doubt will only leave us feeling like a storm-tossed wave – helpless and out of control. The one who doubts is like a person with two minds, thinking two different things at the same time, very unsteady and unreliable.
As we have digested James 1:5-8, you may have noticed that I skipped over the last part of verse 5. That was purposeful on my part so that I could leave you with what I perceive to be the most exciting and encouraging words found in this Scripture passage.
God promises that if we ask for wisdom HE WILL GIVE IT! Not only will He give it, but He’ll do so with generosity to everyone. That’s right, EVERYONE – not just a few, or some, or the favored, or the elite, but all. In addition, there will be no criticizing, scolding, rebuking, nitpicking, or blaming on God’s part. He does not look for a reason to withhold His wisdom.
Upon understanding what God has made available to us, it reminds me of a scene from the movie The Court Jester. The conspirator, after giving instructions to his accomplice, follows with the question, “Get it?” The accomplice quickly replies, “Got it,” and the conspirator answers, “Good!” I am certainly not suggesting that God is a schemer, but instead, He is the only wise God (Rom. 16:27). When we seek Him for wisdom in our decision making, He will give it. It’s our job to listen, get it, and follow through accordingly. If He asks, “Get it?”, I pray we can answer, “Got it.” If so, we are certain to hear, “Good!”
[Digging deeper – Matthew 7:7-8; Mark 11:24; Luke 21:15]
Finally getting it,
Beverly <><
Photo Credit: image courtesy of: pixabay.com
Here we are shown the generosity of the Samaritan as he took care of the Jewish man’s needs. Often, God uses generosity as a doorway to sharing the gospel. Through ZMI, we have experienced and witnessed the generosity of many who have donated both their time and resources to bless others. It’s through this generosity that doors have been opened for us to share the Gospel with those who are lost. To be generous, means to show a readiness to give more of something than is strictly necessary or expected. Today, pray that God would develop a generous spirit within us and teach us how to sacrificially give of ourselves in order to further His kingdom.