#WISDOMSample

"All Out" Watching the post-game interviews with athletes can be really entertaining. They all say the same things, same catch-phrases: we did what we needed to do, played as a team, those guys (opposite team) are really tough, we just did what we could do. My favorite, however, is when players say, “Just wanted to go out there and give 110%...” I’m not good at math, but I’m fairly certain that’s impossible. Of course, they’re exaggerating to make a point: we did everything we could – we went ALL OUT to win this game. Going “all out” is something each one of us does on a daily basis. Whenever we give up time, money, or energy to do something, we are going all out. There are things like relationships, work, or overcoming illness and addictions that take everything we have. And then some. Why do we go all out? We go all out because the end – the victory, the arrival, the health for our minds and bodies – is worth it. Solomon starts Proverbs 4 out with this phrase, “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” (4:7) The chase for God’s wisdom may cost everything we have – time, energy, money, other people’s opinions about what we’re doing – but what we hear from the Proverbs is that God’s wisdom is worth everything. As you read the Proverbs, especially chapter 4, you’ll find that chasing God’s wisdom may require that extra 10% of 110%. We are challenged to go beyond even where we think we can go – to find another gear, and to find strength and discipline to walk with God in real life through His wisdom. Here’s the good news: The full 110% isn’t our responsibility alone. God walks with us – God’s wisdom goes ahead of us so that we can “…look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you.” (4:25) When the way of wisdom gets tough, when you are challenged at the core of your life by the teachings of Proverbs, just know that God is walking with you and giving you a clear path through life. Keep walking. Keep giving 110%. It is worth everything.