“Live wisely among those who are not believers and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.” [Colossians 4:5-6i NLT]
We are commanded to “live wisely!” The Greek word for “wisely” is “sophia” and it includes the ideas of “the art of using wisdom,” and having an “affection for wisdom.”
Those ideas of using and loving wisdom really made realize how often I fail to embrace God’s promise found in James 1:5. “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” [NLT]
The NLT is more tactful in the way it renders that verse. I think I like the NKJV version better: “If any of you LACKS wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” [emphasis mine]
I LACK wisdom all the time. Yet how I often try to solve a problem on my own first – until I get desperate and finally invite God to step in and provide the wisdom He so willingly wants me to have.
Oh, LORD, teach me to ask you first! Amen & Amen
