One Nation, Under God

Letting Go of Worry

1 Peter 5:7, "Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you." (NLT)

Luke 12:29-32, "What I'm trying to do here is get you to relax, not be so preoccupied with getting so you can respond to God's giving. People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep yourself in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met. Don't be afraid of missing out. You're my dearest friends! The Father wants to give you the very kingdom itself." (MSG)

I have often wished that there was a 1-800 number for wisdom or even an email address or Facebook page that is closely monitored. Instagram and Tik Tok, I am not so sure about. When in crisis or moments of doubt, I could simply connect and then calmly and considerately hear words of wisdom to guide my decisions.

I don’t understand the concept of wisdom teeth. If they are supposed to make us wise, why do most people out of necessity have them removed? Historically, wisdom teeth came by the name because they come through the gums later in life. As I approach my later years, however, I still have a tremendous need for wisdom, and since my wisdom teeth were removed in my 20’s, I am in trouble.

The Bible tells us in Proverbs 8 that wisdom calls out to people. Perhaps, instead of trying desperately to connect, I need to slow down and listen. Wisdom also raises her voice. She can be heard if I am attuned. Godly wisdom means that I understand the Lord’s perspective and act accordingly.

Proverbs 8:1-9 has a great deal to say about wisdom:

Wisdom stands in places where paths meet, and decisions are made.

Wisdom can also be through doorways that lead to new places with added responsibilities.

Wisdom raises her voice to all mankind.

Wisdom has worthy things to say, and when she speaks her words are correct.

Wisdom shares what is true and just, and despises things that are untrue, crooked, or perverse.

Proverbs 8:10-11 says, “Choose my instructions instead of silver, knowledge rather than gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her.”

One of the Lord’s attributes is that He is all knowing. It is hard to fathom, but He knows and understands everything. The wisdom that comes from above is divine. It is righteous and holy. The value of godly wisdom has greater value and is more precious than money or resources. Our complicated world is easier to navigate when we listen to God’s voice of wisdom.

The last portion of verse 11 instructs us to desire godly wisdom. People sometimes complicate God. Although His love can’t be measured, and His grace is so broad that it stretches to the ends of the earth, the Lord wants connection with us. He desires a relationship with us and wants us to desire a relationship with Him. Through that relationship, we hear, understand, and apply the voice of wisdom.

In the Book of Matthew, Jesus told a parable or story about a wise builder and a foolish builder. The foolish builder constructed his home on sand that kept shifting and changing. The foundation wasn’t stable or reliable. The wise builder constructed his home on solid rock. The troubles, trials, and turbulences of life were not able to bring destruction. Godly wisdom in our lives provides us with the foundation and security that we need.

Tonya Jewel Blessing is the award-winning author of three books: The Whispering of the Willows, The Melody of the Mulberries, and Soothing Rain. The books are available on Amazon. Tonya is also the pastor at Malta Assembly of God church in Malta, Montana, and the co-director/co-founder of Strong Cross Ministries South Africa. Her email address is [email protected].

 

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