Prudence

“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace which He made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence, having made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He purposed in Himself.” Ephesians 1:7-8 NKJV

In Bible Study recently we were asked to define prudence. As I explored various meanings, Biblical and otherwise, I came across one that really struck me. Prudence in the above verse means understanding, specifically, knowledge and holy love of the will of God (Strong’s G5428).

Years ago, a young couple was really struggling in multiple areas. I thought I knew what was best in the situation, so I prayed and fasted and prayed some more for that outcome without any results. I was fearful of what would happen if things stayed as they were and became angry when things didn’t change. Finally, one night I simply held up my hands and said, “Even though I think this should turn out a certain way, You KNOW what is best for them and You love them more than I ever could…Father God, Your will be done.”

Things didn’t turn out the way I originally thought they should, but as soon as I let go of the outcome and asked for God’s will, He began to change my heart. He led me into acceptance and forgiveness. I believe their relationship would have gone down the same path it did, regardless of my reaction to it. However, my relationship with both of them would most likely have been permanently damaged.

Out of God’s love for all of us, and as I finally gave up the need to control the situation, He gave me prudence. I didn’t know what His will was going to be or what the outcome would be, but I knew He would do the right thing for all concerned, as He always does. He loves us with a love that is incomprehensible. I say and truly believe that I would die for any of my children, but He sent His Child to die for us…that blows my mind.

One of my favorite book series ever is the “Mitford” series by Jan Karon. In it several times Father Tim prays what he calls “The prayer that never fails: ‘Thy will be done’.”

If you are struggling with a situation where you believe you know what is best and you are feeling fearful and/or angry because it’s not working out that way, I pray God would give you prudence as He so graciously gave it to me. I encourage you to give the situation to the Father and ask for His will to be done.

Father God, thank You for loving us so much that You redeemed us through the blood of Your Son. Give us prudence in the situations we face and help us trust that Your will is always best. Amen.