Wisdom

My friend just recently posed the following questions on Facebook. If someone prays for patience, do you think God gives them patience? Or, does He give them situations in which to practice patience? If we ask for courage, does He give us courage or opportunities to show courage?

I have recently prayed for wisdom in guiding my daughter in her decision on which college to attend in the fall. UH OH! Why did she do that you ask? I don't feel wise and I don't feel like God has answered my prayer. Okay, to be completely honest, I must confess that I think He did not answer my prayer in the way in which I wanted. I wanted God to give me such wonderful words of wisdom that my loving 18 year old daughter would be convinced beyond a shadow of a doubt that her father and I are offering her great advice and she should take the advice to make a decision. There would be no tears. She would not roll her eyes, sigh deeply, raise her voice in exasperation with us. No she would agree with us wholeheartedly and there would be a joyous celebration. She would think we hung the moon just as she did when she was three. God does not work according to my plan.

First off, I would recommend praying for wisdom when you learn you are expecting children. Don't wait until the child is 18 and about ot leave. God has given me a situation in which I am learning how to be wise. I am learning how to hold my tongue and listen. I am learning patience as she thinks and weighs options. I am learning how to answer her questions thoughtfully and gently.


God did not drop wisdom down from heaven like manna. He has allowed me to feel confidence in sharing what I consider to be important factors in her choice. He has given me peace and patience. He has given me words to say and ways in which to say them. He has helped me to speak carefully and with respect. He has given me time to think and helped me hear her.

James 1:2-5 NIV states : Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.

God has given to me generously. Thanks be to God