In what ways can we seek godly wisdom during times of personal crisis? Setting the Scene 2 Kings 13:14: “When Elisha had fallen sick with the illness from which he would die, Jehoash king of Israel went down to him, wept over him, and said, ‘My father, my father, the chariots and horsemen of Israel!’” Elisha lies dying. Jehoash faces military threats and spiritual decline. In desperation he runs to the prophet—the living voice of God’s Word at the time. His instinct shows where godly wisdom is found: in humble, urgent dependence on the Lord who speaks through His servants and His Scriptures. Lessons from Jehoash’s Visit • He moved toward God’s representative, not away. • He approached with emotion and honesty—tears, not bravado. • He acknowledged God’s past deliverances (“chariots and horsemen of Israel”), reminding himself of divine power. These simple actions outline a pathway for any crisis. Practical Ways to Seek Godly Wisdom Today 1. Humbly Admit the Need • Wisdom starts with humility—owning that we don’t have the answers. • Proverbs 2:6: “For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” • Let tears fall if they must; God honors a contrite heart. 2. Run to the Word • Unlike Jehoash, we have the completed written revelation. • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 reminds us Scripture equips us “for every good work,” crises included. • Set aside daily moments—even short ones—to let a specific passage speak. The Spirit anchors a restless mind through clear, unchanging truth. 3. Ask Directly • James 1:5: “Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” • Pray conversationally: tell the Father exactly what confuses or frightens you, then expect guidance. 4. Seek God-Honoring Counsel • God often answers through mature believers shaped by His Word—pastors, elders, trusted friends. • Proverbs repeatedly praises many counselors (e.g., 15:22). • Like Jehoash turning to Elisha, invite voices that will point you back to Scripture, not merely sympathize. 5. Recall Past Deliverances • Jehoash’s cry about “chariots and horsemen” echoes Elisha’s earlier miracle at Dothan (2 Kings 6). Remembering God’s track record fuels present faith. • Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.” Make a list of past rescues and review it aloud. 6. Obey What You Already Know • Godly wisdom is never merely theoretical. When the Lord gives a clear next step—through Scripture or counsel—do it. • Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Obedience clears the fog for further direction. 7. Wait with Trust • Some answers arrive gradually. Jeremiah 33:3: “Call to Me and I will answer and show you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” • Waiting time is not wasted time when it is filled with worship, service, and sustained hope. Living It Out In crisis, wisdom is not an abstract concept but a Person—God Himself—drawing near through His living Word, His Spirit, and His people. Follow Jehoash’s footsteps to the true and better Prophet, Jesus Christ, and find clarity, courage, and direction no matter how turbulent the moment feels. |
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