Ask Yourself: Will This Honor the Lord?

Wisdom is one of those topics that can seem like it mainly pertains to major life decisions, such as a future spouse, big financial questions, a potential job change or move, or significant family decisions. And they certainly do.

But wisdom is also needed in the day-to-day moments…even hour-by-hour moments.

I love this phrase from the first Blog post that kicked off our December promise: “Wisdom is not just about knowing facts; it’s about understanding how to live well and make decisions that please God.”

When I read this, I think of trying to look at a situation from the Lord’s perspective…what would please and honor Him…and not be focused solely on my own emotions, which, if left unchecked, can certainly lead me astray.

We need the Lord’s wisdom for so many things, such as handling conflicts in relationships, setting priorities and healthy boundaries, parenting our kids, and the list goes on.

Speaking of parenting, when our boys were younger, I heard this phrase: “Practice the pause.” I can’t remember where I first heard this, but I think it’s so good for so many areas of life…from talking to a child about thinking before they speak…to reminding myself to take a few moments before responding to a certain situation.

Here are just a few of the wonderful verses about godly wisdom:

Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.

Proverbs 3:13: Joyful is the person who finds wisdom, the one who gains understanding.

Matthew 7:24: Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock.

James 3:17: But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere.

As it says in James 1:5, which is our key verse for this month, God is generous, and He will not rebuke us for asking for wisdom. And even if (when!) we mess up, He is there, He cares and He wants to help…He wants to answer our prayers for wisdom.

As Pastor Shane shares, we know the heart, nature and character of God through His Word. So, as we seek godly wisdom, let’s strive to have our actions (and reactions) align with the Word of God.

“If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” (James 1:5)

Throughout 2024, every Monday morning by 7:00 AM, we will post a new video from Pastor Shane or an article written by a member of our staff that connects to that month's featured promise. Learn more.