Practice Wise Living

Practice Wise Living by Jim and Elizabeth George

“Make a wish!” How often have you said or heard this statement on your birthday or one of your children’s birthdays before blowing out candles on a cake? God, in essence, made a similar statement to King Solomon thousands of years ago. In fact, God told Solomon he could have anything he wanted. Anything!

That’s right. Let’s see...how about a new car, a new house, new clothes, new…anything! You probably know this story found in 1 Kings 3. What did Solomon ask for? Wisdom! He asked for “an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil” (1 Kings 3:9).

The next time you pray or “make a wish” (so to speak), follow Solomon’s example. Don’t waste your breath on physical or earthly desires and needs. Instead, go for the biggest and best of all: wisdom.

As a believer infused with the light of Christ, you have access to His wisdom and prudence. So the question isn’t “Do I have wisdom?” but “How do I learn and apply the wisdom and discretion I’ve been given?” Can these attributes of wisdom be found in your life?

Wisdom walks carefully.

Are you meticulously careful about the life you lead? Keep your mind on God’s Word and watch over your lifestyle as you walk with God.

Wisdom evaluates its time.

The time you have in this life is so brief. Don’t let it be stolen by uselessness. Instead, make every minute count for eternity.

Wisdom follows a standard.

God’s standards are revealed in His Word. It is exciting to witness His plan for your life unfolding as you study His Word, pray for wisdom, and practice wise living.

Wisdom lives under God’s control.

You don’t have to live under the “control” of alcohol, sex, power, or the world’s other offerings. Wise living comes from being filled and controlled by God’s Spirit. Ask Him to be your source of contentment, excitement, and comfort. Let Him guide you every day.

God’s ultimate wisdom and plan for you is to “be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18). Paul isn’t referring to the Holy Spirit’s indwelling at salvation here. He is giving a command for believers to live continually under the influence of the Holy Spirit. He is charging you (and me) to walk in wisdom as you live moment-by-moment under the control and guidance of the Holy Spirit.

What a difference that will make in your heart, in your conduct, in your priorities, and in the ways you choose to use your time.

RESPOND:

Lord, help me to practice Your wisdom and discover the joys of being obedient and faithful. I know the truth because it is in Your Word. Amen.

RENEWING RESOURCES:

A Woman After God’s Heart Bible” by Elizabeth George helps readers to discover the transformative power of God’s word.

REFLECT:

Do you turn to God’s Word and to Him in prayer to guide you every day? Who in your life is wise?

REMEMBER:

“Do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is” (Ephesians 5:17).


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Jim and Elizabeth George

Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:

  • Simplify life by focusing on God’s priorities.
  • Appreciate God’s Word and apply it to everyday situations.
  • Respond to circumstances with confidence by seeing yourself through God’s loving eyes.
  • Increase closeness in marriage by serving and honoring each other.
  • Powerfully shape the hearts of children and teenagers.
  • Enjoy greater intimacy with God.

Learn more about Jim and Elizabeth George here.

Jim and Elizabeth George

Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:

  • Simplify life by focusing on God’s priorities.
  • Appreciate God’s Word and apply it to everyday situations.
  • Respond to circumstances with confidence by seeing yourself through God’s loving eyes.
  • Increase closeness in marriage by serving and honoring each other.
  • Powerfully shape the hearts of children and teenagers.
  • Enjoy greater intimacy with God.

Learn more about Jim and Elizabeth George here.


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