Tag Archives: wisdom

Faith, Spiritual

Light Without Sight: Asking El Shaddai for Wisdom

PREFACE

I am going to start trying to use HEBREW names of God in articles, as IMHO they are richer in meaning than the normal English translations. Below is a key for this article: remember to ask El Shaddai for wisdom when seeking deeper understanding.

  • El Shaddai (God Almighty) emphasizes His power and provision, which fits when speaking of His generosity in giving wisdom.
  • Yeshua (Jesus) is appropriate when discussing salvation, the gospel, or light, as He is the Light of the World.
  • Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit) is used when referring to spiritual guidance, illumination, or empowerment.
  • Adonai (Lord) is often used when addressing God’s authority and sovereignty.
  • Elohim (God, Creator) highlights His divine majesty and role as the source of wisdom and truth.
  • Abba (Father) emphasizes the intimate, relational aspect of God, particularly in prayer.

Light Without Sight: Asking El Shaddai for Wisdom

Dear reader, have you ever felt lost, uncertain of what to do, or overwhelmed by the decisions before you? El Shaddai, the Almighty God, invites you to come to Him and ask for wisdom. James 1:5–8 (NASB) speaks directly to you:

“But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For that person ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.”

This is not a passive invitation. El Shaddai desires to generously give wisdom to you—but He asks for faith in return. When you approach Him, you must trust His goodness, power, and faithfulness. Doubt will only rob you of the peace and stability He offers.

Faith Unlocks the Wisdom of Elohim

When you ask Yeshua, the Light of the World, for wisdom, you must approach Him fully convinced of His ability to guide you. James warns against being double-minded, describing doubt as being “like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind.” Doubt creates instability, leaving your heart torn between trust in Elohim and the distractions of this world.

The truth is, wisdom is not just intellectual knowledge—it is a gift of the Spirit, rooted in a deep relationship with Adonai. Proverbs 9:10 (NASB) reminds us: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” This holy reverence for God leads to wisdom that transforms your decisions and your life.

The Gospel Brings Light and Sight

As you seek wisdom, consider these words from 2 Corinthians 4:4 (NASB):

“The god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers so that they will not see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”

Satan blinds hearts and minds, preventing many from seeing Yeshua’s light and responding to it. This blindness doesn’t just affect unbelievers; it can creep into our hearts as doubt, pride, or distraction. You may know the truth, yet still lack the spiritual sight to walk in it fully.

Even Benjamin Franklin, brilliant as he was, illustrates this tragic reality. Despite hearing the gospel from the evangelist George Whitefield, he admitted he remained unconverted. He had light but lacked sight. Only the Spirit of God can open blinded eyes to see and respond to the truth.

How to Ask for Wisdom

El Shaddai offers wisdom to you freely, but He asks for your faith in return. Here’s how you can receive His wisdom: 1. Ask Boldly in Faith: Trust that Yeshua hears you and is eager to answer. “And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive” (Matthew 21:22, NASB). 2. Reject Doubt: Refuse to be tossed around by fear or uncertainty. Instead, anchor yourself in the promises of Elohim. 3. Seek His Presence Daily: True wisdom comes from intimacy with Yeshua. Spend time in prayer and His Word. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105, NASB). 4. Rely on the Spirit: Invite Ruach HaKodesh, the Holy Spirit, to lead and guide you in every decision.

A Prayer for Wisdom and Sight

Beloved, as you seek wisdom, remember that Adonai desires to draw you closer to Him. Pray with confidence:

Abba Father, thank You for Your promise to give wisdom generously to all who ask in faith. I lay my doubts at Your feet and trust You completely. Open my eyes to see Your truth and help me walk in Your light. By Your Spirit, guide my steps and make me a light for others, that they too may see Your glory in Yeshua, the Light of the World. Amen.

Let His Light Guide You

Beloved, don’t live in darkness or confusion. Seek El Shaddai with all your heart, and He will give you wisdom and clarity. Let the light of Yeshua transform your life, for He is the Light of the World, and in Him, there is no darkness at all.

See Also

Life, Meek

A Consistent Life: Walking in Integrity and Faithfulness

Beloved, we are called to live a life that mirrors the heart of Christ, a life where every step we take reflects His truth and grace. To walk in integrity is not just a suggestion but a divine command from the One who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. A consistent life is one where your actions, words, and thoughts align with the Gospel, day after day. This life, dear one, is your testimony to the world. It speaks louder than any sermon, and it draws others to the love of Christ.

Guard Your Heart, Live Without Offense

You have been entrusted with the light of Christ, and with that comes the responsibility to live above reproach. As the apostle Paul reminds us, “We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path, so that our ministry will not be discredited” (2 Corinthians 6:3 AMP). Your life, precious one, must be free of offense—not only for your own sake but for the sake of those who watch you. When you live blamelessly, you protect the integrity of your testimony. Do not let anything tarnish the glory of Christ shining through you.

Every decision you make, whether seen or unseen, is an opportunity to glorify God. Walk in the fear of the Lord, knowing that your consistency in living out your faith strengthens your witness and deepens your fellowship with Him.

Live Worthy of the Gospel You Proclaim

Let your life be a living testimony of the Gospel. As Paul urged the Philippians, “Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ” (Philippians 1:27 AMP). What you proclaim with your lips must be visible in your actions. It’s not enough, dear one, to confess Christ with your mouth while living inconsistently with His ways. Your conduct must reflect His grace, His love, and His righteousness.

Every moment is a chance to show the world what it means to follow Jesus. When you walk in step with the Spirit, your life will be a beacon of hope to those in darkness. Do not grow weary in doing good, for in due season, you will reap a harvest if you do not give up (Galatians 6:9).

Guard Your Reputation: A Light to the World

Beloved, your reputation is a reflection of Christ to the world. Paul instructs us that a Christian “must have a good reputation with outsiders” (1 Timothy 3:7 AMP). Why? Because your life may be the only Bible some people ever read. When you live with integrity, you display the power of the Gospel in real and tangible ways.

A consistent life, grounded in Christ, sets an example for others to follow. When others see you walking blamelessly in truth and love, they are drawn to the Savior you serve. Do not underestimate the power of a good reputation—it can lead others to Christ or turn them away. Live as a beacon of hope, reflecting the light of Jesus in all you do.

Let Wisdom Guide Your Conduct

The wisdom from above, dear one, is “pure, peace-loving, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits” (James 3:17 AMP). It is not enough to know what is right—you must live it out in humility and meekness. Your wisdom should not puff you up, but instead, humble you as you submit every part of your life to the will of God.

When you walk in wisdom, your conduct becomes a testimony to the goodness of God. Let your life demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. As you walk in step with the Spirit, your actions will speak of a heart fully surrendered to Christ.

Live in Holiness and Godliness, Awaiting His Return

Beloved, do not forget that this world is passing away. “Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives” (2 Peter 3:11 AMP). Christ is coming soon, and until that day, we must live in a way that reflects His holiness. Your consistent life, marked by godliness and integrity, is your preparation for eternity.

Do not waver in your pursuit of holiness. The world may tempt you to compromise, but stand firm, for your reward is great in heaven. Every act of faithfulness, every moment of integrity, brings you closer to the heart of God. Let your life be a pure and holy offering, pleasing to Him who called you.

A Final Word: Be Consistent in All Things

Beloved, I urge you to live a life of consistency, a life that honors the One who has saved you. Walk in integrity, wisdom, and godliness. Let your actions speak of the faith you hold so dear. For the day is coming when all will be revealed, and those who have lived faithfully will hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23 AMP).

Your consistent life is not only a reflection of Christ, but it also draws others to Him. So walk in the light, as He is in the light. Let your life shine before others, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

Live boldly. Live blamelessly. Live consistently for Christ.

See Also

Life, Spiritual

The Wise Choice and the Right Way

Embracing the Wisdom of God

Beloved, I urge you to embrace the wisdom and guidance of our Lord Jesus Christ and the enduring truths of the Scriptures. Choosing the wise choice and the right way is paramount in our walk with God. As Joshua implored the people of Israel, “choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve” (Joshua 24:15). Commit your heart wholly to the Lord, as Ruth did when she declared, “Your people will be my people, and your God, my God” (Ruth 1:16). Moreover, seek the wisdom of Solomon, who asked God for a discerning heart (1 Kings 3:9), and walk faithfully in the path of truth, saying with the psalmist, “I have chosen the faithful way; I have placed Your ordinances before me” (Psalm 119:30).

“But only one thing is necessary; for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:42). Let us, too, choose the good part by dedicating ourselves wholly to Him. Furthermore, the Apostle Paul urges us to “learn to sense what is vital, and approve and prize what is excellent and of real value” (Philippians 1:10). Walk in the discernment given by the Spirit, aligning your life with God’s will. Additionally, Moses chose “rather to endure ill-treatment with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin” (Hebrews 11:25). Let us also choose the eternal over the temporary, following the narrow path that leads to life, as our Savior taught: “For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it” (Matthew 7:14).

Walking in God’s Path

Walking in the right way is underscored when Moses instructs the Israelites to “walk in all the way that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper” (Deuteronomy 5:33). Moreover, wisdom’s paths are “pleasant ways and all her paths are peace” (Proverbs 3:17), illustrating the peace that comes from following God’s wisdom. “This is the way; walk in it” (Isaiah 30:21) assures believers of God’s guidance. Psalm 50:23 reminds us, “He who offers a sacrifice of thanksgiving honors Me; And to him who orders his way aright I shall show the salvation of God.”

Jesus guides us, saying, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me” (John 14:6). Embrace the light of Christ, who came “to guide our feet into the way of peace” (Luke 1:79). “These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved” (Acts 16:17). Let us walk in the wisdom of God’s guidance and the light of His salvation.

Reflection and Self-Examination

Reflect on these questions, dear ones: Are you choosing daily to follow Christ, the only way to eternal life? Do you seek what is truly valuable in God’s eyes, or are you swayed by the fleeting pleasures of this world? Are you walking in paths of peace and righteousness, guided by the Holy Spirit? Self-examination is crucial for maintaining a path aligned with God’s will. Like Solomon, we must continually seek a discerning heart, asking God to reveal areas where we need to grow in faith and obedience.

Consider the peace that comes from walking in God’s wisdom. Proverbs 3:17 reminds us that all of wisdom’s paths are peace. Are your daily decisions leading you towards this peace, or do they lead to unrest and turmoil? Jesus offers us a way to peace and fulfillment, guiding our feet in the way of peace (Luke 1:79). Are you allowing Him to guide your steps, trusting in His path over your own?

Commitment to the Narrow Path

The narrow path, though difficult, leads to life. Jesus teaches us that “the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it” (Matthew 7:14). This path requires a commitment to following Christ above all else, forsaking worldly temptations for eternal rewards. Hebrews 11:25 tells of Moses, who chose to endure suffering with the people of God rather than enjoy fleeting pleasures. This choice is before us daily: to follow Christ, even when it means sacrifice and difficulty, trusting that His way leads to life everlasting.

Walking in God’s way also means living in a manner that honors Him. Psalm 50:23 states, “He who offers a sacrifice of thanksgiving honors Me; And to him who orders his way aright I shall show the salvation of God.” Ordering our lives according to God’s will brings honor to Him and leads us to His salvation. This ordered way is a life lived in gratitude, humility, and obedience to God.

A Prayer for Guidance and Strength

Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts open to Your wisdom and love. Help us to choose the wise choice and the right way, to seek what is excellent and of real value in Your eyes. Grant us the strength to walk the narrow path, forsaking worldly pleasures for the joy of eternal life with You. Guide our feet into the way of peace and righteousness, as we follow Your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. May Your Holy Spirit fill us with discernment and courage to live according to Your will. Strengthen our resolve to follow You wholeheartedly, even when the way is narrow. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

See Also

Prayers

Negotiating with God in Prayer: Lessons from the Bible

In our walk with God, there are times when we might find ourselves negotiating with Him in prayer, seeking His mercy and intervention. One of the most profound biblical examples of this is found in the story of Sodom and Gomorrah.

Abraham’s Negotiation with God

In Genesis 18, we see Abraham, the friend of God, engaged in a bold and earnest dialogue with the Almighty. God had revealed to Abraham His intention to investigate the grievous sin of Sodom and Gomorrah and to bring judgment upon these cities. Deeply concerned for the righteous who might live there, and moved by a sense of justice and compassion, Abraham approached God and said, “Will You indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked? Suppose there are fifty righteous within the city; will You indeed sweep it away and not spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous who are in it?” (Genesis 18:23–24, AMP).

Abraham’s negotiation with God is marked by humility and reverence. He acknowledges his own unworthiness, saying, “Now behold, I have ventured to speak to the Lord, although I am but dust and ashes” (Genesis 18:27, AMP). Yet, with each step, he continues to intercede, reducing the number from fifty to forty-five, then to forty, thirty, twenty, and finally ten. God, in His patience and mercy, agrees each time, demonstrating His willingness to listen to the prayers of His people.

Key Lessons from Abraham’s Prayer

This exchange between Abraham and God reveals several important truths about negotiating with God in prayer:

  • Relationship with God: Abraham’s boldness in prayer stemmed from his close relationship with God. He was known as a friend of God (James 2:23), and this intimate relationship gave him the confidence to approach God with his requests. Our prayers, too, are strengthened by our relationship with God. As we draw near to Him, we learn to approach Him with boldness and trust.
  • Intercession for Others: Abraham’s negotiation was not for himself but for the righteous in Sodom. This selfless intercession reflects a heart aligned with God’s compassion and justice. When we negotiate with God in prayer, it should come from a place of genuine concern for others and a desire to see God’s will and mercy prevail.
  • God’s Mercy and Justice: The story shows that God is both just and merciful. He listens to Abraham’s pleas and is willing to spare the city if righteous people are found within it. This balance of justice and mercy is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, reminding us that God is compassionate and willing to relent from sending calamity when there is genuine repentance and righteousness.
  • Humility in Prayer: Abraham’s approach was marked by humility. He recognized his position before God and did not demand but rather humbly requested. This humility is essential when we come before God, acknowledging His sovereignty and our dependence on His grace.

Other Biblical Examples of Negotiating with God in Prayer

Other biblical examples reinforce these truths. Consider Moses, who interceded for the Israelites when God was ready to destroy them for their idolatry. Moses pleaded, “Turn from Your fierce wrath, and relent from this harm to Your people” (Exodus 32:12, AMP). Moses reminded God of His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, and God relented from the disaster He had planned (Exodus 32:14).

In another instance, King Hezekiah, upon hearing of his impending death, turned his face to the wall and prayed earnestly. He reminded God of his faithful service and wept bitterly. God responded by sending the prophet Isaiah to tell Hezekiah that He had heard his prayer and seen his tears, and He would add fifteen years to his life (2 Kings 20:1–6).

Similarly, upon hearing Jonah’s prophecy of destruction, the people of Nineveh believed God, proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth. The king of Nineveh decreed that everyone should call urgently on God, turn from their evil ways, and from violence. When God saw their deeds and that they had turned from their wicked ways, He relented and did not bring upon them the destruction He had threatened (Jonah 3:5–10).

Modern Application of Negotiating with God

Imagine now a scenario where God has revealed that it is someone’s time to die, yet their family asks for prayers of healing, particularly in the case of a cancer diagnosis. This situation is delicate and complex. It calls for deep faith, compassion, and wisdom. While acknowledging God’s sovereignty and ultimate plan, we are also called to intercede earnestly for those we love.

In such prayers, expressing our heartfelt desire for healing is essential while submitting to God’s perfect will. We can ask God for a miraculous intervention, just as He extended Hezekiah’s life, or showed mercy to the Ninevites. However, we must also recognize that sometimes, God’s answer is different from what we hope for, yet His ways are always higher and His plans perfect.

Conclusion: The Power of Intercessory Prayer

These examples show that negotiating with God in prayer is appropriate and effective when approached with the right heart and motives. They demonstrate the power of intercessory prayer and the importance of humility, repentance, and a genuine desire for God’s will.

In the end, though we may wrestle with God in prayer, let us always submit to His sovereign will, trusting in His perfect wisdom and love. As we bring our deepest concerns before Him, may we find comfort in knowing that He hears us, cares for us, and desires to act according to His righteous character. Let us, therefore, approach the throne of grace with confidence, bringing our petitions and intercessions.

See Also

Prayers

Prayer: Secular Leaders

Heavenly Father,

I come before You today to lift up the leaders of our world, our nation, our state, and our local communities. You have placed each of these individuals in their positions of authority, and I pray for Your wisdom, guidance, and strength to be upon them.

Lord, I ask for Your blessings upon the leaders of the world, that they may seek peace and justice in their actions. Guide them to make decisions that honor You and promote the well-being of all people.

For our country, especially as we approach the upcoming 2024 presidential election, I pray for a spirit of unity and understanding among all citizens. May the candidates be guided by integrity and a genuine desire to serve the nation. Help us to choose leaders who will govern with wisdom and righteousness, and let Your will be done in this election process (Romans 16:20).

In our state, grant our leaders the discernment to address the unique challenges we face. May they be inspired to create policies that reflect Your love and justice, and work towards the common good.

Locally, I lift up our community leaders. Bless them with the ability to listen to and address the needs of the people they serve. Help them to foster a sense of community and cooperation among us.

I also pray for the peace and protection of Israel. May Your hand be upon this nation, guiding its leaders and people towards lasting peace and security (Psalm 122:6).

Finally, Lord, I ask that Your grace and fellowship be with all our leaders, guiding them to make decisions that honor You and serve the people with compassion and humility (2 Corinthians 13:14; 2 Thessalonians 3:18).

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.