By the end of the video, I was tossing my phone aside and
avoiding my habitual clicks to Facebook.
(I’m still addicted, by the way, but I'm at least more aware of the impact it has and slowly shifting towards a change)
I recommend watching it if you can; this blog will only scratch the surface.
But beyond raising my awareness of distractions, the message
also got me thinking. (big surprise)
The speaker mentions he believes Solomon didn’t instantly
receive all his wisdom in one divine instant, but rather he had to continue to work at the wisdom
over time.
The speaker gives an example from Proverbs 24:30-34: Solomon notices a run-down field while out on a walk.
When he ponders his observation, Solomon gains wisdom.
The speaker gives an example from Proverbs 24:30-34: Solomon notices a run-down field while out on a walk.
When he ponders his observation, Solomon gains wisdom.
God had told Solomon to “ask for whatever you want me to
give you,” and Solomon (wisely) asks for wisdom, which pleased God.
It reminded me: God likes to give us things that honor Him.
And I wondered, what would I ask God to give me?
Since He likes to
give us things that bring Him glory, it’s a worthwhile question. Not that I expect to be the next Solomon
(pray that I don’t, based on how he turned out in the end, sadly). But it is the kind of prayer God wants to
answer, so why not ask?
I endeavored to ponder this question… on the bike shuttle’s
ride up to campus, during the minute while my lunch cooked in the microwave,
and in little snippets like that. I
wanted to come up with something Godly and yet also unique from Solomon (yup, that was a bit prideful).
I didn’t get any clear answers. At the very least, I realized I don’t leave
much space in my life for careful reflection and prayer…
Meanwhile, Graduate Christian Fellowship is currently in the
first chapter of James. Through the
retreat’s devotional time this morning, God showed me how He helps you endure
trials and overcome temptation:
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” (James 1:5)
BOOM. That put me in
my place.
Now I’m asking God for wisdom:
To know He is at work in my life even in the trying times.
To see past the fear and despair that cause me to sin.
To live in His Kingdom rather than in my little world of
stress.
What would you ask God to give you?
