LONGING FOR GOD’S PRUDENCE, DAY TWO

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
Thursday, April 10th

After listening to lots of podcast interviews, I have noticed that interviewees often begin their reply with the words, “That’s a good question, thank you for asking!” I wonder if this comment gives them a little space to acknowledge the question and form a response. Instead of sitting in awkward silence to consider their words (leaving listeners to wonder if the guests are going to reply), this common phrase can be used as a way to pause and reflect for a moment. I hear and appreciate your question, and you will soon have my answer.

God generously provides us with many sources of wisdom: the life and teachings of Jesus; the Bible and other books; our prayers, journal writing, or observations; mentors, spiritual writers, and friends who share ideas; nature and its abundance of seasonal lessons. It seems that with all of these resources available, God welcomes our questions–and as Jesus tells us, “Whatever you ask for in prayer with faith, you will receive.” ~ Matthew 21:22

When we come to God with a question or request (perhaps for wisdom today), we may find it helpful to envision God replying, “That’s a good question, thank you for asking.” Trusting that God hears our question, acknowledges it as good and valid, and even thanks us for asking, we can then pause to wait for the answer. This entrusts the timing to God. We can then prepare our “ears to hear” (Matthew 11:15) by remaining eager to listen, attentive to noticing, and patiently waiting for the answer that will come when the time is right.

My child, if you accept my words
    and treasure up my commandments within you,
making your ear attentive to wisdom
    and inclining your heart to understanding,
if you indeed cry out for insight
    and raise your voice for understanding,
if you seek it like silver
    and search for it as for hidden treasures—
then you will understand the fear of the Lord
    and find the knowledge of God.
For the Lord gives wisdom;
    from his mouth come knowledge and understanding;
he stores up sound wisdom for the upright;
    he is a shield to those who walk blamelessly,
guarding the paths of justice
    and preserving the way of his faithful ones.
Then you will understand righteousness and justice
    and equity, every good path,
for wisdom will come into your heart,
and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul;
prudence will watch over you,
    and understanding will guard you.
~ Proverbs 2:1-11

Bible verses are NRSVUE, found at https://www.biblegateway.com/
Photo by Karen