There are times that I've received a definitive answer from God, and there are times the answer has been uncertain. But the more I experience God, the more I learn it is less about the answer and more about my heart.
Even when the answer remains unknown, God's response is always clear: abide in Me.
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God.
The fear of the Lord--that is wisdom.
That we are able to discern what is best when our love [for Christ] abounds more and more in knowledge and depth of insight.
Our pursuit of God is the prerequisite to any answer or wisdom we obtain. In that pursuit, the specific answer to my question loses significance. That pursuit becomes the answer--and whatever wisdom we gain from God becomes the byproduct.
My fixation on the answer I'm seeking from God likely indicates my heart is in the wrong place--a place I've been lately. I want to care more about my pursuit of God and less about what I want from God. I want this for you.
Whatever answer eventually emerges from the genuine and unfettered pursuit of God will undoubtedly be the right one because it was discerned by a heart bent toward a faithful God.
"If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." (James 1:5 NIV).
"Where then does this wisdom come from? Where does understanding dwell?...God understands the way to it and he alone knows where it dwells...The fear of The Lord--that is wisdom..." (Job 28:20, 23, 28 NIV).
"And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ." (Philippians 1:9-10 NIV).
My pregnant friend and I recently discussed whether we are bad moms for drinking caffeinated beverages (in moderation) while pregnant (in her case) and nursing (in my case). We quickly concluded no. Which is worse: a caffeinated, but living, mom and a slightly caffeinated baby or a dead mom?
Nevertheless, I introduce to you Peet's decaf coffee because it's a smooth one if you're into that. I'm obviously not.
It's not you Peet; it's me.
Much love to you,
Paige