Devoted: A Girl’s Guide To Good Living With A Great GodSample

"Living Wisely"

Read James 1:5, Proverbs 3

The book of Proverbs makes a compelling case for a competitive offer—the writer continually pushes the importance of getting wisdom. “Do not forsake [wisdom], and she will guard you; love her, and she will watch over you” (Proverbs 4:6 NASB). See what I mean? There is so much emphasis on living life wisely.

We’ve been entrusted with this amazing gift and responsibility called life. We only have one shot at it—don’t you think we should aim to get it right the first time? The concept of stewardship is expressed in Luke 12:35–48, a passage that reminds us to take faithful care of the responsibilities God has entrusted to us.

Obeying God starts with what people don’t see. Seeking the Lord full speed ahead as our number one priority is the wisest move we can make in this life. We need Him desperately, and we’d do well to acknowledge that.

Sadly, people often choose to have a narrow view of their lives rather than keeping their future in mind. Thinking about our actions instead of following the whims of our impulses will save us loads of trouble and please the Lord. It is one of the ways we say, “I trust You, Lord. I know Your plans are far bigger and better than a fleeting experience.”

As we grow in the Lord, we learn the wisdom of seeking Him first before making decisions. Learn to hear His kind voice. As we heed the Holy Spirit’s leading in our hearts and the sound counsel of wise Christians, we begin to realize that God wants to be involved in every area of our lives—in every decision we make. Why? Because He wants His best for us. Sometimes on our own judgment, we settle for second best or miss a detail. But God directs us by paving a path for us to take. Who needs Siri when you’re in tune with the Holy Spirit’s direction? 

“Be wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil”: Romans 16:19 (NASB) leaves us with a life challenge. An ongoing battle is raging for our purity, our allegiance, our minds, and our hearts. Without wisdom, we have no hope of advancing in the fight. What a beautiful responsibility it is to use God’s breath of life in our lungs with purpose. Don’t waste the priceless gift you’ve been given—choose wisdom.