James 1: 5 – 6 (NLT) “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone (emphasis mine).”
So, you find yourself in the middle of a “situation” and you don’t know the answer. You need advice. Who do you turn to? For me, I used to REALLY care what people thought I should do. Before even asking God for direction or guidance, I would go to friends and ask their opinion. I am not saying there is anything wrong with asking friends for their advice. The friends I seek advice from are incredible men and women of God and I believe with all my heart they give advice that is sound and biblical. However, when all is said and done and I have a decision to make I have to remember that true wisdom comes from God and I should be seeking His answer first.
When you have a decision to make or are facing a difficult decision, go to God in prayer and trust Him to work in the details. Instead of talking to a trusted friend first, seek God’s advice. Ask Him for wisdom to make the right decision or how to handle this tough situation you may be facing. Trusted friends will provide confirmation of God’s guidance and direction…trust me!
Another important thing to remember is that you have to trust God to provide the answer on His timetable. I know it’s tough to wait…but you have to be careful not to take your “situation” back and try to “handle” things yourself. James tells us in verse 6 (chapter 1) that we have to ask in faith and not doubt. Asking in faith means to come before God and ask with confidence that God will align our desires with His purposes. We have to believe that God will hear us and answer us.Now sometimes, the answer may come quickly and other times, the waiting will seem like forever. It’s what you do during the wait that’s important… no matter how much you want to doubt His providence and sovereignty…, don’t. Remember God’s timing is not our timing, but it is perfect. Only He can see the entire picture of our lives. Have you ever thought that the process may be taking longer because God is working on someone else in our situation? I have to admit that this is a tough one for me. Because why should I have to wait for someone else…. frustrating I know. But there is beauty in the “wait.”
When you ask God for something are you convinced that his way is best and are you willing to accept the answer He gives? God is trustworthy. Rely on Him to show you what is best for you – NO MATTER THE OUTCOME.
Related reading: Psalm 63:8; Proverbs 3: 5- 6; 1 Corinthians 13: 6 – 7
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