Embrace the Ifs

Watching a little one beginning to do things for himself, we see that I-can-do-it-all-by-myself principle at work. Unfortunately, we seem to never outgrow it! In this information age, answers are everywhere! Whether you want to explore possibilities or search for specific answers, knowledge is available. God said, "My son, IF you will receive My words and treasure my commandments within you, so that your ear is attentive to [skillful and godly] wisdom, and apply your heart to understanding [seeking it conscientiously and striving for it eagerly]; yes, IF you cry out for insight, and lift up your voice for understanding; IF you seek skillfully and godly wisdom as you would silver and search for her as you would hidden treasures; then you will understand the [reverent] fear of the LORD [that is, worshiping Him and regarding Him as truly awesome] and discover the knowledge of God." (Proverbs 2:1-5 AMP). I noted all the the "ifs" in this passage; IF is the condition by which [God says] we find true wisdom and knowledge. Let me suggest it's only the first step, however; the completion comes when we  THEN put Godly wisdom and knowledge into practice! We can watch an instructional video but unless we put the instructions to work - apply the knowledge - we miss the understanding. I encourage us all not to stumble-over the IFS; no, don't see the IFS as options. God put the IFS there leading us to guide us into Godly understanding. Embrace the IFS!