The lips of the righteous nourish many….

Proverbs 10:21

“Mama, would you help me with this problem?”

“Yes”, I said through gritted teeth. As we looked at the math problem together, I could see that my middle-schooler had not read the instructions nor put any effort into finding a solution. I launched into a tirade about these matters. We both went to bed tired and more than a little frustrated.

As I opened my Bible the next morning, James 1:5 hit me sharply in the heart: If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.

I had not given wisdom to my child generously nor without reproach. As we sat down to breakfast, I asked his forgiveness.  

I am so thankful that God gives wisdom to me when I ask. But I am even more grateful that it doesn’t come with a lecture on my unworthiness, reminders of my inabilities or references to my past disgraces. God does not become exasperated with me, but delights in my request, then gives generously. That generosity is simple, open, frank, and sincere.

I want to be a clear picture of Christ to my children, so this verse challenged me to think about the factors that drive me to “fault finding”. It is often fatigue, but more commonly, I find that my own to-do list, my agenda, makes me impatient to their needs and requests. I fear that self makes me cling to my own agenda, and pride makes me feel that it is more important than anybody else’s needs.

Thank you, Lord, for using the mirror of your Word and my precious child, to chisel away at the ungodliness in me. Use any tool, Lord!

Jill Hardin