wisdom from above

DEAR GOD: We’re Seeking Your Divine Wisdom Daily~

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Wisdom Tree Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free Images - iStock

“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” -James 1:5

James 1:5 is a beautiful invitation to Divine wisdom, emphasizing the simplicity and accessibility of asking for guidance. It highlights that God offers wisdom to all who ask, generously and without reproach. This is deeply encouraging, as it reassures us that seeking wisdom is not only acceptable but welcomed by God. It suggests that humility in recognizing our limitations and seeking help is a strength rather than a weakness.

Proverbs 2:6 says, “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” This verse supports the idea that true wisdom comes from God and is given to those who seek it. It reinforces the concept that divine wisdom is accessible and abundant.

In a world often defined by self-reliance and individual achievement, the humility to seek wisdom can seem counter-cultural. Yet, this verse reminds us that true wisdom comes from a higher source and is available to all who seek it earnestly. It calls for a childlike faith, a trust that God, in His infinite wisdom, is willing to impart knowledge and understanding to us.

Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.“ This aligns with the call to seek God’s wisdom and guidance, acknowledging our limitations and relying on His superior understanding.

What does it mean to “lack wisdom”? It’s an acknowledgment of our human limitations and the recognition that there is much we do not know or understand. This verse tells us that in our moments of doubt and confusion, we are not alone. We have a divine source of wisdom we can turn to. The phrase “let him ask of God” indicates a direct and personal relationship with the Divine. It implies prayer, conversation, and a heartfelt plea for understanding.

Matthew 7:7 encourages us with “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” This underscores the power of prayer and the assurance that God hears our requests and responds generously.

The words “giveth to all men liberally” are particularly comforting. They emphasize God’s generosity and His impartial nature. Wisdom is not reserved for the elite, the educated, or the spiritually advanced. It is freely given to anyone who asks. This generosity is without upbraiding, meaning without finding fault or criticizing the seeker for their lack of wisdom. This highlights God’s grace and mercy, His willingness to meet us where we are.

Ephesians 1:17 states, “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.” This verse highlights the ongoing relationship and continuous seeking of God’s wisdom to deepen our understanding of Him.

Reflective questions arise from this verse. How often do we turn to God for wisdom? Do we truly believe in His generous nature? Are we willing to admit our limitations and seek His guidance? These questions can lead us to deeper spiritual introspection and growth.

The moral takeaway from this verse is profound. It teaches us about humility, the importance of seeking divine guidance, and the assurance of God’s generous nature. It encourages us to approach life with a sense of openness and reliance on God, trusting that He will provide the wisdom we need.

“LORD- We thank You for Your generous spirit and Your promise to give wisdom liberally to those who ask. Help us to trust in Your divine understanding and to lean not on our own limited knowledge. May Your wisdom guide us in our decisions, our actions, and our interactions with others. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

 

 

DEAR GOD: Yes – I Will Respect All Ages~

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How do I Become an Elderly Caregiver? (with pictures)

Isaiah 46:4 “Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.”

An Aunt of mine is currently actively dying in place at her home. She has been blessed with a fine life, and at 95 years of age is ready to go home to the LORD.

My other Aunt, her sister – is 92 years of age at home aging in place and actively caring for her older sister. They’ve not been apart since they were born. Having never married, they lived with each other their entire lives. And up until just one month ago, went out daily (the 92 year old is driving her Lexus every day!) and have all their faculties in place- nothing medically wrong!  So, all in all very blessed. Very blessed indeed.

The process of watching someone die is difficult. Of course, at this age it is expected, as no one leaves here without parting from their “flesh.” But what joy to enter in heaven as the spirit goes up to the LORD, as it is promised. Amen!

I have spoken to all of the hospice nurses, who are phenomenal human beings. Thank God for their role in preparation and providing comfort and palliative care- who offer comfort to the family as well. However, sometimes people can be a little “harsh” in terms of older patients dying.

Sometimes people will disrespect an elderly patient in ways they are not even aware of.  One disrespectful way is by ignoring them when they speak. And by ignoring the patient they begin speaking to another person in the room while addressing their medical needs. I as an experienced person in the field of gerontology my entire career working in the Nursing Home Industry, have always found this frustrating and the height of insensitivity to the patient.

  • Leviticus 19:32 “Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the LORD.”

They also seem to disregard their dignity and treat them as a non-entity. These individuals have had most of their independence stripped from them and find themselves in unfamiliar territory where workers in the nursing home are “controlling” when they eat, sleep, bathe, etc.  It’s a difficult transition.

I guess what I’m trying to convey here is. We are all God’s children, no matter our age. He loves us all. He particularly has mentioned “woe to those who take advantage of the widow and fatherless child.”  So, you can be assured He is NOT happy when people treat patients with a cavalier attitude. Nope not at all!

When you encounter an elderly individual, please know that they are not invisible, and their life is no longer useful. Instead, treat them with the respect and dignity and honor they all deserve. Recognize that most have had different roles in their lives, like spouse, mom, dad, grandparents, sister, brother, daughter and son, so on and so forth.  They are still useful and are viable until their very last breath when they are called home to their heavenly Father above.

Dignity and respect should be afforded to all individuals, regardless of age. Be humble in your approach and kind and loving as Jesus would have you do.

The next time you see an elderly person or encounter an aging family member, please remember that they are God’s children, no matter their age. And yes, they are blessed to live beyond a certain age, but that only solidifies that God still has a plan for them in their current status. That there is still unfinished work to be done, perhaps in them to reinforce their pathway to heaven. But the point is – respect them and treat them with love.

One day if you are fortunate, and God willing, – you will be the OLD person in the room. Don’t forget that, and remember God is watching!

“Father, Thank You for my aunt’s longevity, and for watching over them, I pray that You continue to watch over them both, and pray her death will be peaceful, and that the aunt left behind be comforted by Your love and knowing she will see her again one day, and I lift up all those actively dying in place at this time, for their family members to have peace and comfort, and for all those who are caring for the sick, that they have patience and respect and love for them, and for those mourning the loss of a loved one, I pray all these things in Jesus’ name, Amen.”