Wisdom for Everyday Life - Day 187 Month 7-6 Week 27-5

Today's Reading (Bible in 1 year)


1 Samuel 4-5, Proverbs 2, Lamentations 1:11-22, Acts 18:23-19:10

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Samuel%204-5%2C%20Proverbs%202%2C%20Lamentations%201%3A11-22%2C%20Acts%2018%3A23-19%3A10&version=NASB1995


Wisdom for Everyday Life

I know some smart people. One friend of mine is so intelligent that when he makes a point, you really have to think deeply to understand what he is saying. He doesn't intend to be misunderstood, but he is so philosophical that you really have to think to keep up with him.  I have another friend who is a scientist.  He learns like a sponge soaking up water.  He constantly listens to audiobooks, over 100 per year.  He doesn't listen to novels; he listens to books that expand his knowledge.

A person doesn't need a brilliant intellect to be wise, and having a brilliant intellect doesn't guarantee wisdom.  Wisdom is the ability to use knowledge, experience, and understanding to make sound decisions and good judgments. The greatest source of wisdom is God. "The LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding" (Proverbs 2:6).

God invites us to ask for wisdom.  "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him" (James 1:5). One of the wonderful things about wisdom is that it is freely available.  You don't need a high IQ or years of education to receive it.  You simply need a humble heart that is willing to listen.

As I'm getting older, I'd like to think I'm becoming wiser, although that's still a work in progress.  I know I function best after about seven and a half hours of sleep.  Last night, though, I stayed up to watch one more episode of Law & Order and didn't get to bed until 11:00.  Today I'll probably feel it, and that's on me.  Wisdom often shows itself in the small, everyday decisions we make.

Looking at life over the long term, I think wisdom is one of God's greatest gifts. It helps us make better decisions, avoid unnecessary mistakes, and see people through more compassionate eyes.  Wisdom reminds us that not everyone thinks like we do or reacts the way we would.  When we ask God for wisdom, He helps us love our neighbours with greater patience, understanding, and grace.  That sounds like a good way to live.

Have a great day!

Steve

steve.d.pauls@gmail.com


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