How can we seek God's wisdom in decision-making, as suggested in Job 32:9? Setting the Scene Job 32:9 reminds us, “It is not the aged who are wise, or the old who understand justice.” Elihu’s blunt observation overturns the common assumption that years alone guarantee insight. Real wisdom, especially for pivotal choices, comes from God Himself—available to every believer who seeks Him earnestly. What Job 32:9 Teaches About Wisdom • Wisdom is not automatic with age; it flows from a living relationship with God. • Decision-making that pleases Him depends on receiving His perspective, not merely human experience. • God’s offer of wisdom is democratic—young or old, experienced or novice, anyone can receive it by humble dependence on Him. Recognize the Source of True Wisdom • Proverbs 2:6: “For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” • 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.” • Wisdom is a gift. We do not manufacture it; we request, receive, and obey it. Practical Steps to Seek God’s Wisdom in Choices 1. Ask in Faith – Begin with prayerful asking, confident He will respond (James 1:5–6). 2. Anchor in Scripture – Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” – Search passages that address similar situations; God never guides contrary to His revealed Word. 3. Invite the Spirit’s Guidance – John 16:13: “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth.” – Quiet moments of listening help tune your heart to His prompts. 4. Evaluate Motives – Proverbs 16:2 warns our motives can be skewed; ask the Spirit to expose self-interest and purify intention. 5. Seek God-fearing Counsel – Proverbs 11:14: “For lack of guidance, a people fall, but with many counselors there is deliverance.” – Choose advisors who love the Lord and His Word more than your approval. 6. Weigh the Peace of God – Colossians 3:15 speaks of peace acting as an umpire. Genuine guidance is marked by settled confidence in Christ, not anxious compulsion. 7. Obey Promptly – Wisdom blossoms in obedience. Delayed or partial compliance stunts spiritual insight (John 14:21). Safeguards Against False Wisdom • Measure every impression against Scripture’s clear teaching. • Beware worldly “common sense” that contradicts God’s commands (1 Corinthians 3:19). • Resist peer pressure; majority opinion is not automatically God’s voice (Exodus 23:2). • Refuse shortcuts that promise quick results at the expense of righteousness. A Lifestyle That Cultivates Ongoing Discernment • Daily intake of the Word—steady reading, study, and memorization keep the mind renewed (Romans 12:2). • Continuous prayer—short, frequent conversations with God normalize dependence (1 Thessalonians 5:17). • Humble teachability—acknowledge how much we still need to learn (Proverbs 1:5). • Obedient track record—each act of obedience augments spiritual sensitivity (Luke 8:18). • Worship and fellowship—gathering with believers sharpens perspective and keeps hearts soft (Hebrews 10:24-25). Encouragement for Your Next Decision God has never failed to guide those who sincerely seek Him. Approach every choice—big or small—with the confidence that His wisdom is available, practical, and sufficient. Trust His character, submit to His Word, listen to His Spirit, and watch Him illuminate the path that honors Him and blesses you. |
    |