Decisions and God's wisdom

         Decisions, decisions, decisions...

         Yes, life's full of them, isn't it?  This was one of our favorite little spots in Disney--the French bakery.  And this is only one tiny little slice (excuse the pun) of the delectable offerings.  There were cases galore of yummy looking treats!  That might have been the most challenging part of our trip--choosing just one...or two...or, well, who's counting?
         But seriously, aren't you thankful in life's myriad decisions that we're not hanging out there on a limb all on our own?  Oh my, how desperately we need--or at least I surely do--the supernatural wisdom of our Lord.
       "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.  But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind."(James 1:5-6)
        We have a couple of good friends facing challenging decisions right now.  We all do.  Decisions regarding school choices.  Business decisions.  Decisions regarding how to respond in relationships.  Political decisions.  Time decisions.  Big and little decisions...one after another.
        Such a simple reminder, but I know I surely needed it--there is One who knows all the facts, has all the wisdom, and knows every possible ramification for our every decision.  And He's the One who made us, redeemed us, and loves us more infinitely and perfectly than we can even begin to imagine.          So how about we ask Him?  How about we seek His perfect wisdom from the first thing in the morning, to the middle of the day, and to all evening long as well?
         The Creator and Sustainer of the universe has invited us to come, ask, receive, and soak in His wisdom, love, and grace.  And not just come, but come with confidence!  "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and grace to help in time of need." (Heb.4:16)  What on earth are we waiting for?
         I'll close with this wonderful prayer from Scotty Smith: "Dear Jesus, as this day begins, many of us are facing big decisions. We need the wisdom, guidance, and peace You alone can give.  It's a joy to come before Your throne of grace  confident of Your audience, grateful for Your advocacy, and resting in Your authority.  Indeed, Jesus, You're an engaged Shepherd, not an absentee landlord.  Even as we make plans in our hearts, You are actively ordering our steps  (Prov.16:9).  Oh, the freedom and peace this brings!  You are the Lord who 'opens doors no one can shut' (Rev.3:8)  And the converse is just as true; You also shut doors no one can open.  Our future is tied not to making the right decisions but to trusting the right Lord....For those of us dealing with job changes, financial stresses, and health issues, show Yourself mighty, Jesus.  May Your mercy keep us gentle and Your might trump our impatience.  For those of us having to make important decisions for the people we love, be huge and present.  Long-term care for aging parents, the 'right' education for our kids, the best treatment for family members and friends in the destructive whirlwind of addictions--make the way clear, Lord.  As Prince of Peace, give us Your peace as we wait upon You.  Jesus in these coming days write stories of redemption that will reveal your glory, showcase Your grace, and leave us reveling in Your goodness and timing.  We pray in Your trustworthy and beautiful name. Amen."
         Yes, Lord, yes. Do it again and again in our lives, in our loved ones' lives, and in the lives of all who love Your great name.  We hand You our decisions and humbly ask for Your wisdom and enabling.  To God be the glory.