Steps for the Seekers

The naïve are heirs to foolishness, but the clever are honored with insight. – (Proverbs 14:18, VOICE)

 

This evening will be a unique experience for me. As a teacher, I have attended my school’s 8th grade celebration/graduation numerous times over the past nineteen years, yet tonight will be the first time in that my role is both as a parent and a teacher. My boys are finishing up their final days of middle school. It is bittersweet, as I have loved having them with me each morning and afternoon on the way to and from school, and there is a certain comfort in knowing that your own children are present on the campus on which you teach. That being said, they are ready for more. Neither of them has allowed themselves to get caught up in the foolishness of which some of their peers partake, and consequently, they have gained great insight and earned good grades, preparing them for that which lies ahead. Although I will miss their daily presence, I am excited to see all that awaits them in their high school experience and beyond. May we each embrace every opportunity for growth that is placed before us, so that we would operate in a space of His wisdom, rather that from our own foolishness.

 

Those who are clever,photo (5)

Are rewarded well;

Insight is granted,

In wisdom they’ll dwell.

With feet both planted,

Secure on the ground;

Future before them,

Their path has been found.

It’s about moving,

Where you’re meant to go;

For that is how we,

Each learn and we grow.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that when we seek You, we find You, and we are rewarded with wisdom and insight through our seeking. Thank You for all of the young people who have earnestly sought You, as they are preparing for next steps in their lives – so many transitioning from elementary school to middle school, middle school to high school, high school to college or work, and beyond. Thank You that whatever the transition, You are present and leading. Forgive us for forgetting how big You are, and give us the strength to trust You more with the next steps for our progeny. Show us how to continue to lead them well, and help us to love those around us in a way that points people unto You. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we seek Your wisdom and insight in all of our next steps. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. – James 5:11

Wielding Wisdom

image from Like a Wonderful Cup of Coffee

image from Like a Wonderful Cup of Coffee

Be wary, dear friends,

of what we take in;

some teachings seem good,

but really are sin.

Weigh all with His word,

may Spirit discern;

shine light on “smooth talk”,

His wisdom, we’ll learn.

For often deceit,

is in flattery;

have not naive mind,

hear the Prince of Peace.

Obedience brings,

joy unto the wise;

clarity to know,

between truth and lies.

The God of all peace,

who overcame hell,

grants His grace to us,

and wisdom as well.

(Responding to Romans 16:17-20)

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that “Your word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path.”  Thank You that when we are intentional to study Your word, You whisper Your words of wisdom to our head, heart and spirit.  Thank You that Your Spirit, who dwells in us, brings truth from Your word to mind when something does not resonate right in our spirit.  Forgive us for succumbing to smooth talk, or for falling for flattery, and help us to be ever mindful of what we see and hear; listening for Your still small voice in our soul.  Grant us wisdom as we walk, and the ability to see clearly, that which is truth from You, and that which is not.  May we love well as we walk in Your grace, and may our faithfulness to You, lead many to humbly seek Your face.  Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present