Wisdom

Wisdom

My father was a wise man. I didn’t realize this until I was in my fifties. Some things come slow when you think you know it all. My father was also smart. He had gone through medical school and practiced medicine for many years as a pediatrician and allergy specialist. His wisdom didn’t simply come from his schooling. It came from living life as a man, husband, father and doctor.

My observation is that there is a shortage of wise people today. Oh, there are many smart, well-educated men and women who run corporations, serve as public servants, and entertain us in the media. The glitter of smarts has no shortage in our culture. We are the most educated, well informed and socially conscious generation that our country has ever produced.

But where are the wise ones? Where are those individuals who are able to translate knowledge into life sharing direction and encouragement? Has our egalitarian, politically correct mantra duct taped the mouths of those who can speak to encourage, admonish, and warn us that not all paths lead to a fulfilled life.

Knowledge feeds us information. Wisdom translates information into the practical application of living. I have been fortunate not only to have had a wise father but several mentors whose wisdom has directed, sustained and saved me from my foolish ways. Often I was unaware that their guidance was crucial to my well-being and maturity.

Be assured that there is no lack of wisdom available from our Heavenly Father. I often turn to these words in the New Testament book of James:

 “If you want to know what God wants you to do, ask him, and he will gladly tell you, for he is always ready to give a bountiful supply of wisdom to all who ask him; he will not resent it. But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to tell you, for a doubtful mind will be as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind; and every decision you then make will be uncertain, as you turn first this way and then that. If you don’t ask with faith, don’t expect the Lord to give you any solid answer.”