Ephesians 4:11-16 (NRSV)
The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ. We must no longer be children, tossed to and fro and blown about by every wind of doctrine, by people’s trickery, by their craftiness in deceitful scheming. But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body’s growth in building itself up in love.
Explanation:
I find myself in a season of parenting where I am trying to teach my child to problem solve, and in some ways, figure things out for herself. For example, the other day she was physically stuck behind the couch. Although I could have helped her in this instance, I thought it was a great moment for her to problem solve and think of a solution. So, instead of helping her, I told her to “figure it out.” In this instance, having her figure things out for herself was a positive and good learning moment. However, I know there are other areas of her life where I do not want her to “figure it out” for herself; rather, I want to teach her, shape her, and lead her to learn God’s truth and direction for her life.
Our current culture is constantly screaming messages to us. Right now, we are being told to figure things out for ourselves. Discover your truth, your path, what you want for your life. But this message is damaging. Sure, we can “figure” some things out, but it does not always mean it will be the healthiest or best way. Culture does not have our best interest in mind. Culture is run by broken people who are just trying to “figure things out” for themselves.
That is not the case with God. He is constant and never-changing. He is truth. He has always been, and will only lead us down a path that leads to life. Whenever we don’t know what to do, He is where we find true knowledge and wisdom. As humans, we are limited. Limited in our perspective, knowledge, and understanding because we are broken individuals. But we have a God who is full of all wisdom and knowledge. He knows all, sees all, and has our best interest in mind. We no longer have to “figure it out” for ourselves…we can seek God for wisdom and guidance for our lives. Seek Him today. He will give you the wisdom, knowledge, and guidance you need to live life to the fullest…and that is only found in Him.
Application:
Why is it harmful and damaging for us to try to figure things out for ourselves?
What are some of the messages you feel culture is screaming at you currently?
Why is seeking God’s wisdom a better way?
Can you think of a time when you sought God’s wisdom instead of your own? How did the situation play out for you?
Prayer:
God, culture is screaming so many messages to us on a daily basis. It can be hard to figure out what is truth and what is not. As we continue to walk with You, will You please speak truth, wisdom, and knowledge into our lives? And when we try to figure things out on our own, remind us that we have You to teach us and walk alongside us. We know Your way is always better. Help us to walk in Your truth today. Amen.