Americans are very independent people and most of us were raised to be that way from a very young age. We are taught to be self-reliant, full of self-esteem and self-confidence. Somewhere along the way our self-awareness makes us realize that we cannot do it ourselves. Our own understanding leads us astray and the house of cards we’ve tried so carefully to build ourselves falls apart. All this time, God is waiting for us to come to Him for wisdom and guidance. He sees us fail and wants to share His wisdom with us, if only we’d ask. Yes, the God of the universe longs to have a relationship with YOU!
WISDOM: An understanding of truth that guides your actions
MEMORY VERSE: “Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true wisdom. All who obey His commandments will grow in wisdom. Praise Him forever!” PSALMS 111:10 (NLT)
This Week’s Finish Line: God is Happy to Give Us Wisdom when We Ask
When Solomon was a young man, his father David died and he became king and therefore responsible for all of the people of Israel. In 1 Kings 3:3-15 we learn that one night God came to him in a dream and told him to ask for whatever he wanted. Solomon, in humility, asked for the wisdom to govern God’s people because he knew he couldn’t do it alone. Although we probably won’t talk to God in a dream, we can also seek wisdom from God and talk to Him through prayer. James 1:5 says that we can ask our generous God for wisdom and it will be given to us. Just think about that. We can talk to the ultimate creator of the universe at any time, day or night, and He will hear us!
Family Questions:
- What was Solomon’s attitude before God? Why was God pleased with Solomon’s request for wisdom?
- Where are you tempted to search for wisdom apart from God? When are you most tempted to lean on your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5-6) instead of God?
- Where do you need wisdom right now in your life? Have you prayed about it? Stop and pray right now.
- Read Hebrews 4:16. Why can we approach the throne of grace with confidence? What did Christ do for us on the cross that makes this possible?
Bring It Home: 3 Activities to Illustrate Asking for Wisdom to Elementary Kids
1. Project 66
One of the ways we can learn about God’s wisdom is through His Word. This month we are challenging all elementary kids to memorize all 66 books of the Bible. This week work on memorizing all of the prophetical books from the Old Testament as a family. Check out this fun rap song by North Point Kids that your kids are hearing on Sundays to help them memorize all 66 books!
2. Family Prayer Time
Set aside some one-on-one time with each of your kids. Talk to them about one area of their life that they need wisdom in and pray for them. Be sure to follow up with them and ask them about it later in the week. Tell them something they can be praying for you about. Take time to come together as a family and pray for all of the requests at least once during the week.
3. Daily Proverbs
Learn about asking God for wisdom from the wisest man who ever lived. Begin by reading a few proverbs each day with your kids at breakfast, on the way to school or at bed time. Talk about what they mean and how they apply to your life and your child’s life.
Prayer: Proverbs 3:5-6
Thank God always being willing to hear our prayers. Ask Him to help you when you’re tempted to lean on your own understanding instead of His. Pray for a specific area of your life that you need wisdom for this week.