Wisdom

James 1

I opened up my Bible and it opened to James 1. I didn’t pay attention to where it opened as I closed my eyes and tried to find the concentration I needed to spend quality time with God. I am still struggling with that.

I opened my eyes and looked at the lovely view from my swing…and the antics of 4-5 woodpeckers who were screaming at each other on the dead ash tree. I asked God to clear my head so I could concentrate on Him. Only this crazy mind of mine began to race. The harder I tried to concentrate, the more my mind wondered.

I thought about my trees and the cost to have eleven of them taken down as ash borer killed them all. I thought about work and that I still haven’t found another job…and how am I going to make it. I thought about my six children, my relationship with each, and their individual needs. I thought about the cruel things happening in our cities and country and how afraid that makes me. And then of course, I thought about how I don’t want to do this life alone without a companion. How I need someone to hold me on hard days. A best friend, companion, confidant. Someone who doesn’t leave.

All these things popped up in my head within seconds and swirled around in my head like frothy water at the bottom of a falls.

And again, I asked God for clarity of mind to focus on Him.

Please.

I finally looked down at my Bible. The first thing I read was verse 2.

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.

Okay. That was fast. Thank you, God.

I read further. Verse 5.

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.

Wisdom. I should be asking for wisdom.

Verse 6
But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.

Verse 7, 8
For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

I will focus on these verses today as I ask God for wisdom, clarity, direction, and guidance.

I’ll close blog with this beautiful verse of encouragement.

Verse 12
Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.

I am so grateful for God. ♥️

Andi