Category Archives: Wisdom & Guidance

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November 3, 2013

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God's Word: The Bible, Wisdom & Guidance

In Six Words or Less

But in a church meeting I would rather speak five understandable words to help others than ten thousand words in an unknown language. [1 Corinthians 14:19 (NLT)]

Sometimes expressing our faith can be difficult and we get tied in knots trying to figure out, let alone explain, theological concepts like original sin, predestination and free will, the Holy Trinity, Judgment Day, grace or the Book of Revelation. I recently read of a professor who had his students write about difficult subjects by boiling them down to no more than six words. Perhaps we could try to do the same thing when putting our faith into words. It may help us focus on the essence of God’s message.

“God created. Man sinned. Jesus saves.”

“Jesus died so I can live.”

“The Holy Spirit lives in me.”

“God’s grace is love undeserved.”

A truly wise person uses few words. [Proverbs 17:27a (NLT)]

 

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October 28, 2013

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Obedience, Prayer, Wisdom & Guidance

His Will Be Done

Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. [Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV)]

Sometimes, Lord, my prayers are more about me trying to convince you that my way is right rather than my asking you to show me your way. Open my heart, O Lord, to cheerfully accept your will. Lead me, so that I eagerly follow your course. Fill me with your Holy Spirit; may your will be done.

Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Matthew 6:10 (NIV)

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October 23, 2013

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God's Plan, God's Promises, Prayer, Wisdom & Guidance

Thank you, God, for Your Wisdom

Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it! [John 14:14 (NLT)]

Sometimes we get what we ask for and sometimes we don’t. If we don’t, we can’t let God’s rejection cause us to lose faith. Let’s admit it, we don’t always know what is best. In fact, I rarely do. The story of King Midas is a perfect example of our lack of foresight. The King wished that everything he touched would turn to gold. Sounds great, at first, doesn’t it? And it was, until he tried to smell a rose, eat and drink or, finally, to kiss his beloved child. When God says, “No,” he may well be protecting us from ourselves and our foolish desires.

Father, please give us patience when you seem slow to answer and acceptance when you deny our prayers. May we see your infinite wisdom and your unfailing love in your response to our requests.

I used to ask God to help me. Then I asked if I might help Him. I ended up by asking God to do His work though me. [Hudson Taylor]

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October 18, 2013

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Challenges & Difficulty, God's Word: The Bible, Wisdom & Guidance

Sometimes We’re Slow Learners

Then I will not be ashamed when I compare my life with your commands. As I learn your righteous regulations, I will thank you by living as I should! I will obey your decrees. Please don’t give up on me! [Psalm 119:6-8 (NLT)]

Teacher God, each day’s events provide lessons in which you show us how to live. It is up to us, however, to choose what it is we learn from these experiences. Sometimes we resist you and it takes several lessons before we finally understand and accept your message. Thank you for not giving up on us; please, make us attentive to your instruction today.

 

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October 10, 2013

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Forgiveness, Holy Spirit, Obedience, Wisdom & Guidance

I’m Blessed with a Forgiving God

Remember, O Lord, your compassion and unfailing love, which you have shown from long ages past. Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth. Remember me in the light of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O Lord. [Psalm 25:6-7 (NLT)]

Oh Lord, forgive me. I don’t even have the excuse of youth for my failings. How many times will I have to make the same mistakes before I finally learn? Be patient with me, Lord, and teach me your way. Thank you for your inexhaustible forgiveness, love and mercy. Fill me with your Spirit and lead me on your path.

The Lord is good and does what is right; he shows the proper path to those who go astray. He leads the humble in doing right, teaching them his way. The Lord leads with unfailing love and faithfulness all who keep his covenant and obey his demands. [Psalm 25:8-10 (NLT)]