It’s not hard to drift.

If you’ve ever been in a kayak–even in a light current–when you aren’t paying attention you can end up far from where you were. I’ve experienced this–I’ve drifted far from where I started and it took a good bit of effort to get back on track.

When it comes to kayaks–and life in general–I am certainly not a perfect captain. I do–and will–make mistakes. But, I have been learning that my ability to anticipate danger or respond to my own mistakes and redirect course is critical.

I am more and more convinced that two of the most important things that I can do is to quickly recognize when my ship is veering off course and redirect it towards the right course. And, learn how to stay on course.

So then, how do I know the right course for my ship? How do I anticipate what lies ahead? How do I know which way to turn the ship in mindless drift? Or respond in the chaos of the storm?

I have been discovering something that–to me–has the power to change my course for the best, and keep me truly on course when drift or challenges threaten to pull me away.

This something, this power, is wisdom.

This kind of wisdom doesn’t come from myself. I am ignorant–often distracted, blind, or unaware of my own drift or shortcomings. I need wisdom outside of myself. Wisdom that is real. And true. Wisdom from something–or someone greater. I need wisdom that has the power to keep me on course, and respond appropriately and rightly when I drift or disaster strikes.

I found that the book of James (Chapter 3) speaks of this kind of wisdom. According to the author, this wisdom is:

From God. And True.

True wisdom is…

• Authentic and real – it is never fake or manipulative.

• Good to the core – its motives are pure.

• Peace loving – it looks for harmony, not drama or division. 

• Kind and gentle – it is strong but never harsh.

• Willing to listen and adjust – it is open to reason, not stubborn.

• Overflowing with mercy – it is quick to forgive, eager to help.

• Full of good actions – it shows up in what we actually do.

• Fair and unbiased – it treats everyone the same.

• Genuine through and through – it has no hidden agenda.

• Works for reconciliation – it mends relationships and builds unity.

• Free of envy, rivalry, or ego – it is not driven by jealousy or pride.

This wisdom is humble and is lived out in humble action. This wisdom has words and actions that bring stability, order, and real goodness. I’ve seen, tasted, felt and experienced this wisdom. It is true, and it is real. It brings great change. And it is found in relationship with Him, The One God who is perfect wisdom.

If the one who knows us the best–the one who designed us–gives insight and wisdom towards the best course for our life, can we listen and consider applying this?

Moving Forward: 

–>Can you evaluate your decisions, responses, and actions by this wisdom?

–>Do the decisions you are making and actions you are taking align with this wisdom? Is it time to re-evaluate?

Thoughts or feedback? gerberxc@gmail.com