“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God…and it shall be given him”.

James 1:5

I was playing a game of Yahtzee on the computer to wind down after a long day. For those who may not know, the game consists of rolling five dice and then deciding how to score depending on the numbers on the dice. Now, I know there are some of you who disapprove of playing a game like this, but let me assure you it isn’t for money and it is just between the computer and me.

Now, back to the game. I was trying to decide which dice to keep and which ones to roll again. The various outcomes were numerous, but what I was hoping was to roll five of a kind, known as Yahtzee to gain the most points. It was tempting to settle for a lesser score but I really wanted that Yahtzee. I decided to roll again and yes, I received the score I wanted. However, I can tell you that in other games I am not a fortunate and wind up with several blanks in my score.

So, what does this have to do with the cost of tea in China? During that game I was suddenly struck with inspiration from the Holy Spirit. Aren’t our lives a matter of numerous choices, some of which don’t turn out as we wish? We know what the desires of our hearts may be and we know to seek after those things which are good for us. God wants what is best for us and knows the things we want most out of life. Psalm 37:4 says, “Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.

The verse at the beginning tells us to ask God for wisdom and He will give it to you. Now, I am sure many readers are not impulsive and do things without even thinking. It’s all right to be impulsive when playing a game, but for the major decisions of our lives it is important to seek wisdom from God. This can be done in several ways including reading the Bible, praying, and seeking godly advice from someone who seeks after God.

Your answer may come immediately or it may take several years of seeking God over and over. It is so easy to give up the first time you pray, but that is when persistence takes over. Sometimes we need patience to allow God to work things out for our own good instead of getting in the way. It is like Abraham taking matters into his own hands and having Ishmael, when all along God’s plan was for the birth of Issac.

Are you prepared if the answer is “no”? Now that I am older I can look back and see the reason for some of those negative answers from God. I rejoice in God’s plan that brought an incredible blessing, much better than I could ever realize on my own.

Don’t leave life up to chance like the roll of the dice. Seek God’s guidance in every area of your life and witness how He will guide you in the right direction.

Debra Whittington is a longtime resident of Tucumcari. Contact her at:

dawhittington@msn.com