Scripture: James 1: 2-8
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double minded man, unstable in all his ways.
Reaction: This passage was listed under the topic of wisdom, which I feel I am indeed lacking at times. At the end of my meditation I asked God for wisdom in dealing with a certain matter, and He did give it to me liberally. The phone call I was concerned about making actually went very well, and I attribute this to God’s generous gift of wisdom.
The instruction to ‘ask without doubt’ was also very meaningful to me, because on occasion (though less and less frequently), I am disturbed by dark thoughts of disbelief. Yes, I can certainly identify with the feeling of being tossed by the wind on a turbulent ocean when I feel my faith waver. But today I was at peace on a calm and glassy sea, knowing that my prayer would be granted before I even asked. Though my faith has been tested in the past, and I believe that my trials and setbacks have made me more patient, trusting, and faithful towards the Lord. So I am very thankful for the two gifts I have received today: increased faith, and the ability to handle adversity with confidence and wisdom.
About Me
- Michele S.
- In 2007 I took an early retirement to ‘find myself’ and to discern God's plan for me. My journey has led me down many paths, where, among other things, I’ve cared for an ailing relative, volunteered with the needy, subbed in the schools, taught a fitness class, become a freelance resume writer, initiated a small prayer group, and competed in Senior Olympics Dance Sport events. My most rewarding experience has been developing a rich relationship with the Lord by praying daily with the scriptures. Each day I choose a Bible passage based on my mood or on the church calendar. Then I meditate on God’s words, imagining that Jesus is speaking them directly to me. I might repeat a specific word or phrase like a mantra, letting it envelope me and eventually find a place in my heart. I try to hear, feel or sense what God is trying to say to me through the scriptures. Finally, I respond with my own words and impressions, and record them in a prayer journal. From time to time I post these reflections on my blog ‘Seek Ye First’. I feel very blessed that my life is such a lovely balance of work (fun stuff, but little money!), play, family, friends, and most importantly, devotion to God.
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