“Walking in Wisdom: Trusting God as Our Guide”

“Walking in Wisdom: Trusting God as Our Guide”

 With Bishop Ronald Powell

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, today we gather to reflect on the profound truth that God is our guide, the One who leads us along the path of righteousness and light. In a world filled with uncertainty and confusion, we can take comfort in knowing that we have a loving and faithful Guide who never leaves our side.

The Bible is filled with verses that remind us of God’s role as our guide. In Psalm 32:8, we are assured, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” What a beautiful promise this is! God not only directs our steps but also watches over us with love and care.

Explanation:

This verse from Psalms reassures us that God is actively involved in guiding and instructing us. He does not leave us to figure things out on our own but rather offers His guidance and counsel with a loving eye on us, showing His care and concern for our well-being.

Proverbs 3:5-6 further emphasizes the importance of trusting in the Lord for guidance: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” When we surrender our plans and desires to God, we open ourselves up to His perfect will and direction for our lives.

Explanation:

These verses from Proverbs highlight the necessity of wholehearted trust in God’s guidance. By acknowledging our limitations and submitting to His wisdom, we allow God to lead us on paths that are straight and aligned with His divine purpose for us.

As we journey through life, it is vital that we seek God’s guidance in all things. In James 1:5, we are encouraged to ask for wisdom from God, who gives generously to all without finding fault. When we are unsure of which way to turn, we can turn to Him in prayer, knowing that He will lead us on the right path.

Explanation:

James emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom from God, who is always ready to provide guidance to those who ask. By seeking God’s wisdom through prayer and trusting in His answers, we can be assured of being led in the right direction.

God’s guidance is not always easy to discern, especially in times of trial and hardship. However, we can take comfort in the promise found in Isaiah 42:16: “I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them.”

Explanation:

This verse from Isaiah illustrates God’s faithfulness in guiding us through unfamiliar and challenging circumstances. Even when we cannot see the way ahead, God promises to lead us, illuminate our path, and make our journey smooth, demonstrating His constant care and presence in our lives.

Let us remember that God’s guidance is always for our good, even when we cannot see the full picture. Romans 8:28 assures us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” When we trust in God’s guidance, we can rest in the knowledge that He is working all things together for our benefit.

Explanation:

This well-known verse from Romans reminds us of the overarching truth that God’s guidance is always working for our ultimate good. Even in times of uncertainty or difficulty, we can trust that God is orchestrating everything according to His divine plan for our lives.

The Fruits of Walking in Wisdom

     Peace and Harmony: Proverbs 3:17-18 promises, “Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, whoever lays hold of her is blessed.” Walking in wisdom isn’t about following a rigid set of rules. It’s about aligning ourselves with God’s will, which ultimately leads to peace and harmony in our lives and relationships.

    Discernment and Sound Decisions: James 1:5 tells us that God’s wisdom is “pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.” When we walk in wisdom, we gain the ability to discern God’s will in complex situations. We can make sound decisions that honor Him and bring good to those around us. 

    Protection and Strength: Proverbs 2:7-8 declares, “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He reserves sound judgment for the upright, he is a shield to those who walk in integrity.” Walking in wisdom isn’t a guarantee of an easy life. But it is a promise of God’s protection. He shields us from harm and gives us the strength to navigate life’s challenges.

    A Life that Honors God: When we walk in wisdom, we reflect God’s character to the world. Proverbs 11:30 says, “The righteous fruit is a tree of life, and whoever captures souls is wise.” Our wise choices and actions become a beacon of hope and inspiration to those around us, ultimately bringing glory to God.

Walking in Wisdom: A Lifelong Journey

Don’t be discouraged if you don’t always make perfect choices. Walking in wisdom is a lifelong journey of learning and growing. Here are some additional points to consider:

    Embrace Mistakes as Learning Opportunities: We all make mistakes. But when we walk in wisdom, we learn from them and adjust our course. Proverbs 24:16 says, “For the righteous falls seven times and rises again, but the wicked stumble in times of calamity.”

    Seek Counsel from Wise Believers: Proverbs 15:22 reminds us, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Surround yourself with people who can offer godly wisdom and guidance.

    Be Patient and Trusting: God’s timing is perfect. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see the fruits of your wise choices immediately. 1 Peter 5:6 encourages us, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”

Brothers and sisters, walking in wisdom is a beautiful and rewarding path. It’s a journey of trusting God, learning from Him, and living a life that reflects His character. Let us commit to following this path today, one step at a time, with the confidence that He will guide us every step of the way.

In conclusion, let us commit ourselves to seeking God’s guidance in all areas of our lives. Let us trust in His wisdom and follow His leading, knowing that He will never steer us wrong. As we walk in faith and obedience, may we be reminded of the words of Psalm 119:105, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” God is indeed our guide, illuminating our way and leading us ever closer to Him.

Amen.