Listen:
The Lord by wisdom founded the earth; by understanding he established the heavens; by his knowledge the deeps broke open, and the clouds drop down the dew (Proverbs 3:19-20).
Reflect:
God, who created all that is, made use of wisdom, understanding and knowledge in the act of creating. In earlier parts of Proverbs 3 we read warnings not to trust in or be impressed with our own understanding and wisdom (vs 5, 7) as well as the joy experienced in finding true wisdom and understanding (vs13-18). Taking these two ideas to heart, I’m reassured by Proverbs 2:6 that says “For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” God, author of creation, maker of all that exists, also gives of Himself! He created humanity in His image, and part of being in His image is having access to wisdom, understanding and knowledge.
Sometimes I lose sight of the gift of being made in God’s image, the gifts He offers me. Despite the warnings not to trust in my own wisdom, understanding and knowledge, I find myself doing just that. I stop seeking the source of true wisdom, understanding and knowledge. In doing so I lose perspective, becoming destabilized and overwhelmed. My own wisdom, understanding and knowledge don’t serve me well. Thankfully, God, in his goodness and generosity, is always ready and willing to give His wisdom, understanding and knowledge when I turn back and ask Him, so that I’m equipped to navigate the complexities of life. It doesn’t mean everything is always simple or perfect, but I have God-given resources that come from the One who knows best what I need.
Prayer of Response:
Lord, in you is all wisdom, understanding and knowledge. Thank you that you give generously to all who ask. Please show me where and when I am depending on human wisdom, understanding and knowledge and give me the humility to recognize my folly and return to your resources and your ways.
Questions to Ponder:
- Where have you seen the difference between depending on your own wisdom, understanding and knowledge, and depending on God’s?
- How can you more quickly recognize if you have turned to you own wisdom understanding and knowledge so you can more quickly return to God’s?
Breath Prayers:
Join us in praying breath prayers each day. We invite you to write your own as well.
Inhale (Breathe in): God, you give generously
Exhale (Breathe out): Fill me with your wisdom, understanding and knowledge
(Repeat)
—Submitted by Theresa Anderson
Theresa Anderson lives near Grenoble, France with her husband and 2 teenage sons, working at a retreat center/camp. She got roped into Lifesprings shortly after arriving in France in 2006, and it’s been part of her life since then. She’s is involved in local Lifesprings activities in France, is part of the Lifesprings Executive Team, and coordinates the team that provides resources for LSMs. Theresa is passionate about creating spaces where people can learn and grow through their experiences.