"But if any of you needs wisdom, you should ask God for it. He is generous and enjoys giving to all people, so he will give you wisdom. But when you ask God, you must believe and not doubt. Anyone who doubts is like a wave in the sea, blown up and down by the wind. Such doubters are thinking two different things at the same time, and they cannot decide about anything they do. They should not think they will receive anything from the Lord." (James 1:5-8 NCV)
Perhaps my most common prayer is one seeking guidance and wisdom. Sometimes it can be so challenging to know the best course of action to take in life!
Have I always received the guidance I sought, or have I sometimes continued to feel confused? These verses tell me why I've sometimes continued to feel confused. How many times have I prayed for guidance, received an answer, and then worried that I might have misunderstood the guidance. Clearly when I do that, I am "wavering" and not asking in faith. And sure enough, when that happens, I lose my first joy at being given the guidance I sought, and just end up feeling confused and frustrated. What a shame to miss out on the guidance I so desperately need and God wants to give me, simply because of a lack of faith!
One way I've found to combat this is to talk to God about what I THINK is the guidance I've received, and ask Him to block me from moving in that direction if it is not truly His will for me. Then, I can move forward in confidence. Of course, when I do that, I have to remember to be grateful if I suddenly find a roadblock in my path - as that too is an answer to my prayers!
Father, thank you so much for your willingness to give me wisdom! May I be willing to accept your guidance without doubting it! May I trust you to be a good enough communicator that you will ensure that I understand what you have to tell me as long as I am open to hear that still small voice within me. Thank you for the many blessings you give me each day and for the spiritual food you set before me. May I fully digest it and glean each bit of nourishment! I love you, Father.
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This blog is simply a sharing of my "daily bread" - my daily walk with God. If something I've said has touched your heart, or sparked a new thought, I'd love to hear from you.