Celebrating Hope: Looking Back Stepping UpSample

Finding Answers

Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life. - Proverbs 4:13

After not speaking with me for years, my father finally reached out and we shared an intimate conversation. As I walked into adulthood, facing the world on my own for the first time was scary so I was grateful to converse with my dad and talk about my anxiety and depression. These emotions can drain me. I overthink, questioning my purpose and worth. Thank God, I could share how I come out of the spells through prayer. As I seek God and search the Scriptures, I find everything I need: love, encouragement, power, life. All free. Along with salvation, wisdom is a gift from God.

The book of Proverbs overflows with God’s wisdom. Its primary author, King Solomon, used wisdom and instruction to rule Israel, to promote peace, and to bring order to his peoples’ lives. When I turn to God, I find great clarity and peace. He says, “Turn your ear to my words. Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to one’s whole body” (Proverbs 4:20–22). 

I realize that the enemy, Satan, tries to penetrate my mind. But God tells me: “I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently will find me” (8:17).—Aaminah Johnson 

The enemy thrives in an atmosphere of confusion but we find peace and order when we seek God and His wisdom.

Lord, we often misunderstand why things happen in life the way they do. Help us in confusing and disheartening times to remember the sanctuary and peace You provide and point us to Your wisdom.