Silence, Stillness and Centering before God (2 Minutes)
Scripture Reading & Devotional:
James 1:5 (NLT)
5 If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.
There are many people who are very knowledgeable in the Word of God — they have studied the Scriptures with a great zeal for understanding, but not all of them are able to utilize their knowledge in the way God intended. The reason is simple — they lack wisdom.
So what does wisdom have to do with our ability to use our knowledge?
Simply put, wisdom is the application of knowledge and understanding. Think of it this way, if knowledge were a piano, then wisdom knows how to play the piano.
All too often we can get focused on gaining or collecting knowledge, and yet do very little or nothing to apply what we know. This is especially dangerous when it comes to our Christian walk, because at its root, knowing what to do and not doing it is sin, and this can be harmful to us and to others. Another negative side affect to our lacking wisdom is we tend to get puffed up in the knowledge we have collected. Think of it as water that has made its way into a stagnant pond; it will never flow any further, nor be used to bring forth the water of life.
There have been many times where people have said to me, “I’m not sure what God’s will is for me. I want the wisdom to make the right decision.” I will usually tell them to seek the Lord in prayer for His leading. I will then encourage them to remember God has told us to ask Him for wisdom, and that He will give it to us liberally (James. 1:5). Our greatest resource for wisdom is God’s Word. It is here where we will find His will for most things we encounter (Rom. 12:1-2). I believe when we apply what we already know to be right according to His Word, then God will lead us in what we are to do.
See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. Ephesians 5:15-17 (NKJV)
I want to encourage you to think and pray upon these things today.
QUESTION: According to the Scriptures in this devotional, what can we learn with respect to being wise, and obtaining wisdom?
PERSONAL INVENTORY: Are you steadfast in your commitment to apply and share what God is teaching you, or are you just collecting knowledge?
PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Apply what you are learning through God’s Word, and be willing to share it with others as soon as God gives you an opportunity.
Question to consider: Which word or phrase stands out to you. What might God be saying to you?)
PRAYER FOR TODAY: Father, thank You for giving me wisdom to apply the knowledge I have. Give me Your wisdom in abundance today and prompt me to share Your Word with others. In Jesus’ precious name, amen…
Prayer: Conclude with Silence (2 Minutes)
The Our Father (slowly pray this)
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever, Amen.
The Podcast Pastor 