Day 115, Year 1 The Honest Shall Obtain True Wisdom from God

“Behold, You desire truth in the innermost being, And in the hidden part You will make me know wisdom.” (Psalm 51:6 NASB)

Yesterday’s devotional mentioned that we should understand how the Most High God has shaped us. And as we seek wisdom from Him to discern His work, this process requires inward honesty, or “truth in the innermost being,” as stated in today’s verse. “Truth in the innermost being” in today’s verse is translated to “inward honesty” in the Chinese Union version. God delights in those who are honest. Yet, some people prefer to be crooked, smooth-talking, or even hypocritical. Dishonesty stems not only from the desire for personal gain, but also from fear of punishment, unhealthy upbringing, genetic problems, or even work demands for worldly advantages. They all could easily lead people to become dishonest. But could the world’s benefits be comparable to all God granted? Of course not. As mentioned previously, God treats the pure with purity. Thus, we must become honest persons so as to retain His love, wisdom, and grace.

Indeed, some dishonest people might have achieved what they wanted. In contrast, honest people might have gained less worldly benefit, but God favored them with His provision. We need to be honest both inwardly and outwardly, but inward honesty seems to be the basic prerequisite for acquiring His wisdom. “Truth in the innermost being” in today’s verse seems to suggest that people inevitably experience moments of being frightened or misled. But if these things never shake our inner authenticity and sincerity, we would still receive God’s mercy and related wisdom. To maintain outward honesty at all times is not easy, as people are susceptible to external interference and fail to be completely honest. But these outward and short-lived influences would pass.

More importantly, God will grant wisdom to the honest in the hidden place, or “in the hidden part.” Indeed, God often works in people’s hearts and minds, for instance, causing us to see the resolution of a problem, receive a wise idea all of a sudden, or even receive His wisdom in dreams. The process of God’s people in seeking wisdom is often solitary. When you invite His presence to come to you and pursue His wisdom, He can give you wisdom to receive. Therefore, many believers enjoy being alone, praying, and meditating in a quiet place to receive His wisdom when we are mentally ready and fully energized. Finally, we should share at least part of the wisdom we received from God with others according to His guidance.

Reflection questions:

1) Do you think you are honest inwardly and ready to receive God’s love? In which areas do you find yourself lacking, if any? And how would you rely on the Lord to solve them?

2) Do you enjoy solitude, praying, and meditating on God’s words to receive His wisdom? In what areas do you still need to improve?