Happy September! We are truly in a season where wisdom is essential. Some of us are dealing with tremendous warfare. Even as I pray and fast this month, it is most urgent for me to learn how to lead a quiet life, even on the battle front. Some of us are feeling on edge. Some of us are dealing with increased temptation. With so many demands, pressures, and stress all around us, we must pray for increased wisdom. Not only must we pray for wisdom, but we must also pray for understanding. Let’s look at one of my favorite scriptures, Proverbs 4:6-9.
Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. 7 The beginning of wisdom is this: Get[a] wisdom. Though it cost all you have,[b] get understanding. 8 Cherish her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will honor you. 9 She will give you a garland to grace your head and present you with a glorious crown.”
When we look at verse six, we understand that wisdom is something that we can not forsake or abandon. Why, because wisdom will protect you; it will keep you safe from harm or injury; mentally, physically, and emotionally. When we walk away from wisdom, we welcome selfishness, disobedience and worry! When we have wisdom, it will lower our blood pressure, give us peace during a storm, and calm any anxiety. There are many reasons why someone might forsake wisdom but remember, when that happens you open yourself to a vulnerable state of instability.
I can’t help but think about some decisions I made in life, and how the spirit of ignorance and pride was more evident, as opposed to wisdom. I wanted things my way, and if I can be completely transparent, there were times when I felt God needed my help. However, once I repented and started seeking the wisdom of God, so many things in my life pivoted in the right direction. Not walking in wisdom placed me in bondage. However, walking in the wisdom of God has given me great liberty. Remember, when you embrace wisdom she yields protection, and when you love wisdom, she will watch over you! If you take a moment to pause, wisdom will speak and provide insight in every area of your life. What I love about wisdom is during times of turbulence and unsettlement, wisdom will lavish calmness, stability, and serenity.
I love that the bible is very clear and commands us to get wisdom. There is not another option suitable enough. It doesn’t tell us to try it, buy it, or think about it. No, it says, “Get wisdom.” That encourages me not to see wisdom as an option, but as a lifestyle. I also love the bible because it teaches us in James 1:5 “if anyone of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” How loving is our Heavenly Father that tells us to get wisdom, and it we lack wisdom; all we need to do is ask. I don’t know what life situations you are currently facing, but I want to encourage you to rise up, and GET WISDOM!
I have also learned that It’s necessary to surround yourself with others who have wisdom. Let me give you an example on how the wisdom of my father, Jerry O. Pittman, has impacted my life. For those of you who know me personally, you know that I am a true daddy’s girl. My dad and I frequently have deep conversations, and he said to me one day, “I hear you talk about your testimony on how God brought you through two failed marriages, and I am grateful that He did, but as your father, I desire that your testimony does not end there. I also desire for you to testify to a happy and healthy marriage. I desire that you not only testify to how God brought you through, but how God brought you up!” That was the best wisdom my father has given me, and I will carry it with me for the rest of my life.
He planted a seed to remind me no matter what I face in life, hold on and hold out. Don’t let your testimony end on just how God brought you through something, but also how he brought you up to a higher level in your purpose. Thank God for His grace that today I can testify being in a healthy, and blissful marriage. If I can go a little deeper, it also made me think, if this was the desire of my earthly father, how much more are the desires of my heavenly father!
I just want to encourage you today to hold on and hold out! I want to encourage you that there is more to your testimony! Continue to seek wisdom. Let wisdom elevate you. Let wisdom honor you. Let wisdom build you. Let wisdom exalt you. Don’t go another breath living your life without wisdom. I promise you, if you ask for wisdom, get wisdom and honor wisdom, your crown will be filled with priceless gems.
Carenda Deonne Beamon
MA in Law/Certified Stress Management Coach
