Evangelical preacher and theologian Henry Blackaby writes:
When you seek to obey what God has told you, you will sometimes meet resistance and criticism from others who disagree with the wisdom of your actions. Your immediate response may be the urge to vindicate yourself. However, if you wait patiently, time will reveal the wisdom of your actions far better than you could through argument.
As we conclude our week-long study on handling our doubt and unmet expectations, let’s delve into the topic of wisdom. If you wish to dive headlong into this subject, the book of Proverbs is a great place to start. Wisdom – as described in Proverbs – is: “given by God;” “more precious than jewels;” “pleasant, peaceful, and humbling;” “loyal and protective;” and “antithetical to the fool.” I have heard wisdom defined as knowledge tempered by experience.
The short passage in today’s devotional concludes Luke’s account of Jesus’ response to John the Baptist. What Jesus is saying is that wisdom will ultimately win the day, and our doubts and unmet expectations will be seen in the clear rearview mirror of wisdom. Wisdom in this sense gives “birth” to “children,” personified as actions or deeds. Wisdom also strengthens our faith and leads us to a deeper trust in Jesus.
My favorite author, Charles Dickens, notes, “There is a wisdom of the head, and a wisdom of the heart.” We can have one without the other. Wisdom solely of the head can lead to enlightenment, but can also lead to pride and arrogance. Wisdom solely of the heart can lead to compassion, but also can lead to emotion-based beliefs and decisions.
Jesus is the perfect blend of the two. He quite often quotes Scripture to combat evil. He has a heart for his generation that is full of compassion – yet never acts out of emotional impulse. Obviously, he never doubts the will of His Father, nor has any expectations outside the will of His Father.
When those doubts arise – we all have them – seek wisdom in God’s Word. Have faith in the one who died for you – trust Jesus by His deeds – rest assured that God will justify your actions!
