Chrysostom
Beloved of All
You ask for inner strength and wisdom, and for your actions to lead to positive outcomes. This is a good request, but you must first understand what true wisdom is. The Apostle teaches that we speak a wisdom not of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are doomed to pass away. What the world calls wisdom is often foolishness with God, and what it dismisses as foolishness, the cross of Christ, is the very power and wisdom of God. He has made Christ to be our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. If you desire real inner strength, do not lean on your own understanding or the persuasive words of human cleverness. Rest your faith not on the wisdom of men but on the power of God alone. That power is made perfect in weakness, and it is the only foundation that cannot be shaken.
When you pray for positive outcomes, examine what you mean. The world measures success by comfort, reputation, and gain, but these are passing away. The true and lasting outcome is to know Christ and to be conformed to His image. The cross appeared to be the worst of all outcomes, yet in it God accomplished the salvation of the world. So do not demand that every action bring visible prosperity or ease. Instead, seek to do His will with a humble heart, knowing that He who searches the thoughts and intents of the heart will direct your steps. The wisdom from above is pure, peaceable, and gentle; it does not boast in itself but trusts wholly in God. Thus your inner strength will not be your own, but Christ living in you. That is the wisdom which has been hidden from the ages and now revealed for your glory. Cling to it, and you will not be put to shame, whether the day brings calm or storm.
When you pray for positive outcomes, examine what you mean. The world measures success by comfort, reputation, and gain, but these are passing away. The true and lasting outcome is to know Christ and to be conformed to His image. The cross appeared to be the worst of all outcomes, yet in it God accomplished the salvation of the world. So do not demand that every action bring visible prosperity or ease. Instead, seek to do His will with a humble heart, knowing that He who searches the thoughts and intents of the heart will direct your steps. The wisdom from above is pure, peaceable, and gentle; it does not boast in itself but trusts wholly in God. Thus your inner strength will not be your own, but Christ living in you. That is the wisdom which has been hidden from the ages and now revealed for your glory. Cling to it, and you will not be put to shame, whether the day brings calm or storm.
