40-Day Worship Experience Youth DevotionalSample

As we continue praying the simple prayer, “Jesus, give me wisdom and guidance,” it’s important to remember we are not just asking for God’s help with our plans. We are opening ourselves to His thoughts and ideas, which are often different (and better!) than our own.

Part of wisdom is discerning if our ideas and thoughts are from God or from our own minds, or maybe from something we learned or heard from someone else. We have to stop and think whether we are being led by God or if we are walking down a selfish path.

James describes heavenly wisdom this way: “But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere” (verse 17). As you pray and listen to God, and then as you go through your day, compare your ideas, desires, and goals with this description.

Often, unwise decisions come from things like fear, greed, haste, wrong perspectives, and immaturity. No one is immune to these things, which is why it’s important to seek God’s guidance each day in prayer and in His Word. Remember, He wants you to ask for wisdom, and He promises to bestow it generously.

Your request for wisdom pleases the Lord. All you need to do is ask, listen, and obey.

Reflect

How do you know if your ideas and decisions are coming from God or from selfishness? What is the result of following wisdom from God?