Just Ask

My Mama used to say, "nobody likes a know-it-all." The older-me understands that a little better; I like this piece of advice - "Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt." In Proverbs 1:4, Solomon wrote of knowledge and discretion. Knowledge is a collection of mentally-stored information; discretion is the ability to thoughtfully apply that knowledge. Knowledge + discretion = wisdom. I suppose we all know how difficult it is to apply knowledge rightly ... usually from past mis-application. Solomon's request for wisdom intrigues me: "Now, O LORD my God, You have made Your servant king in place of my father David, yet I am but a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in. Your servant is in the midst of Your people which You have chosen, a great people who are too many to be numbered or counted. So give Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people to discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?” (1 Kings 3:7-9). We most certainly live in a time of great information and never-ending advice on how best to parent, coach, work, govern, live and be in relationship with others. How do Believers accomplish Romans 12:18 -  "if possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all"? How is knowledge and discretion melded into wise application? Yes, it is possible [as far as it depends on us, to live at peace with others] but only when knowledge is firmly rooted in Eternal Truth (God's Word) and The Truth is powered by The Holy Spirit Who guides Believers in all wisdom. Life is tough: not all relationships are easy, not all knowledge is eternal, not all counsel is right. What did God think of Solomon's request? "It was pleasing in the sight of the LORD that Solomon had asked this thing." (V.10). What joy to know The Father takes pleasure in our asking for that which we so desperately need. Why not ... just ask!