YAG I: Book of James – Ruth Tay
Practising Meekness and Praying for Wisdom
These are some of my reflections from YAG I 2023.
1. To practise meekness in how I respond to the Lord’s Word and to others
I tend to do things my way and sometimes, I end up learning things the hard way. This problem of mine has surfaced so much more this year as we plan for our wedding. I am used to making decisions on my own because I think I know better. Sometimes, these plans work out but other times, they do not. And I think that this steams all from a heart filled with pride.
In James 1:19–21, the lessons on meekness, both in how we respond to receiving the Lord’s word and responding to others, are what I am learning to apply. I must admit that I still struggle to practise having a stillness of heart, and to respond in faith and love.
The verse, Proverbs 17:27, which was shared at YAG I on exercising wisdom in being slow to speak and seeking to having a calm spirit continues to be one that I am still learning to apply. Instead of being quick to respond, I am learning to respond with faith rather than my feelings. I am learning to be a better listener – to put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness and longsuffering.
In the last few months, I have been praying for a teachable heart – one that is humble enough to embrace the Word with joy, and to also receive correction. I continue to pray for a spirit that is meek – one that is hungry to grow and humble enough to take heed to godly counsel.
2. To pray for wisdom
When I face challenges, be it at work or wedding preparations, my first response would be to ask the people around me what they would do and how I should resolve the challenges. Many times, I find myself searching for worldly solutions, rather than asking God for wisdom. I tend to apply human, worldly wisdom instead of seeking godly counsel and praying for wisdom.
In James 1:5, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”
As we prepare for marriage, I have been learning to pray for wisdom. Seeking godly wisdom as a first response is one lesson that I am still learning.
“A wise man will hear and increase learning,
And a man of understanding will attain wise counsel,”
…
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,
But fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
Proverbs 1:5,7
Evin and I are learning to pray for wisdom, not just for our wedding but also as we prepare to start a new family. We recognise that we need wisdom and do not want to be fools who despise wisdom and instruction.
As we move up to YAG II next year, I’m challenged to grow deeper, to keep seeking the Lord for His wisdom, grace and mercies, and to cultivate a spirit that is teachable and meek.