“My daughter, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding— indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.” (Proverbs 2:1-5)
With the approximately 35,000 decisions we make daily, there are likely one or two very key ones. It could be a purchasing decision, how to handle a disgruntled customer, or how to speak with someone whose actions you have concerns about. How do you handle this? When we turn (once again!) to the book of Proverbs, we can take direction and confidence from God’s pattern.
Following the steps of seeking Him for understanding is a blueprint for understanding another person’s actions and therefore responding wisely with knowledge. Think of something you need to deal with this week and reflect on God’s direction below.
Gain Knowledge of God | Gain Knowledge from God | Gain Knowledge About Others |
Listen to God | Pray, read and accept His Word | Pray to God specifically about the issue. |
Treasure His Commands | Keep His principles and promises in your heart | Seek His Word about the issue. He may specifically talk about it or there will be a principle(s) to follow |
Tune your ears to wisdom | Listen to God with the intent to apply His wisdom | Make time to meet with the person so they have time to speak and you have focused time to listen. Remember, God is in the room too. |
Concentrate to understand | Devote time to focus on God’s message to you | Do not feel rushed to decide something if you do not need to. Be respectful to the person. After, take time to pray and get more facts or information if you need to. |
Cry out for insight and ask for understanding | Earnestly ask God for common sense and discernment | Take focused time to pray about the situation and ask God for direction. |
Search for insight and understanding | Keep searching for His direction until you feel His Peace | Once you feel at peace about the decision or direction, ask to meet with the person again. |
Seek insight and understanding like they are hidden treasures | Have a heart full of praise and thanksgiving for the treasure of wisdom He makes available for those who seek Him. | Once you feel at peace about the decision or direction, ask to meet with the person again. Thank God for His presence, wisdom and direction in your everyday life at work as you commit to demonstrating God at work, at work. |
What issue will you be dealing with this week? Please write it down and use the seven steps above to gain an understanding and knowledge of the steps you should take. Gaining knowledge about God and from God will help you to gain knowledge about others which will help you in your decisions, actions, reactions, and communication.
Taking This to God in Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your provision, and promise, of wisdom and understanding You give to those who search for it. Help us more fully understand and appreciate the treasure of Your commands as we turn to You for insight and direction. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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