We pray using the truth of verses like Proverbs 3:19-20;
Isaiah 28:29; Isaiah 55:8-9; Daniel 2:20-22; Romans 11:33-34; Romans 16:27; Colossians
2:2-3; and James 3:17.
As we praise the Lord, those words are not just meant for
His ears. Our words of praise should echo in our own ears and reach into our
hearts and minds.
Then, as we praise the Lord God, there comes a grasp that
not only is His wisdom in use at all times, it is also available in a useful
way to those who call on His name.
A practical example happened this weekend for me.
Our home was built in the 1950s. That is quite obvious when
you enter the kitchen. It is quite noticeable, too, that we've added a few
things over the years to increase cupboard space. There's a pair of tall pantry
cabinets, visibly different than the others. On one side of the stove, there's
a rolling island pushed up against the wall and on the other side is a butcher
block stand. Both of these have storage. But, it just never seems to be enough,
especially after trips to certain large "big box" store. Things just usually
tend to hang out on the counters in the way until they can get squeezed into a
less visible location. Updating our kitchen with more practical cabinetry has just
not been in the budget.
After the last trip, I was at a loss as to what to do with a
new set of glass food storage containers that I'd purchased. They and their
lids needed a home. Like most people, we like to use our counters
for food preparation. And, with four cats, counters become cat highways in the
absence of humans.
So, the next morning, I decided instead of lingering in
frustration, I would linger in praise. I praised the Lord that He has all
wisdom. Then, I decided to ask Him what to do. After all, that's what James 1:5
advises us to do. So, I asked the Lord just where could these new glass storage
containers and their lids find a home in my kitchen?
Almost instantaneously, I thought of the cupboard where I keep
the tea and coffee. The top shelf held just a few odds and ends, items that
could easily be relocated. And that led quickly to the thought that on the
opposite side of the room was a shelf with rarely used items that could be
easily moved to that spot, which would open up the perfect place for these new
dishes!
Instead of frustration, now I was excited to get to work.
And, you know what? It worked even better than expected!!
Praise invites the Lord God "Who is wonderful in
counsel [and] excellent in wisdom and effectual working" to reveal His
wisdom for practical use in our lives. (Isaiah 28:29 AMP)
So, here are a few words of praise from Daniel and Paul that we can echo today—
Daniel answered, Blessed be the name of God forever and ever!
For wisdom and might are His!
He changes the times and the seasons;
He removes kings and sets up kings.
He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have
understanding!
He reveals the deep and secret things;
He knows what is in the darkness, and the light dwells with Him!
Daniel 2:20-22 (AMP)
Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God!
How unfathomable (inscrutable, unsearchable) are His judgments (His
decisions)!
And how untraceable (mysterious, undiscoverable) are His ways (His
methods, His paths)!
For who has known the mind of the Lord and who has understood His
thoughts,
or who has [ever] been His counselor?
Romans 11:33-34 (AMP)
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