Call before you dig.
That’s what billboards, radio ads and even web banners shout out to prospective excavators. If you don’t, you may dig a deep hole of debt (because you’ll be on the hook to repair the damaged cables underground). Or someone else will dig a deeper hole for your electrocuted body. Either way, the message is simple; it’s not wise to dig a hole without knowing what you might run into.
A Near Miss
About a year ago I rented a massive tent for an event at our church. I realized too late that it had to be anchored into the ground by 16 spikes that were 3 feet long. I was sick. The event was just two days away, and it would be unlikely that I could get anyone to mark out the area in time. A part of me thought Just go for it! There’s nothing out there in the field. Thankfully the wise part of me spoke louder …except for a pipeline. Wisdom won out, and I made the First Call. They did the job in a hurry and marked out the area. Nothing was in our way. We were good to go. The spikes went down and the tent went up.
The Source of Wisdom
The Bible tells us “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking (James 1:5).” If we are honest, we need wisdom on a daily basis. We are faced with decisions personally and professionally that require wisdom. We could all use a bit of knowledge and good judgment to guide us. Any good leader knows that it’s a sign of strength to ask questions, know what you don’t know, and to reach out to more seasoned veterans when you aren’t sure of the next step.
For over 25 years I have been going to God as The Source of wisdom, for “Fear of the LORD is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment (Proverbs 9:10).” To fear the Lord is not to be afraid of the Lord, it is to give him reverence in our lives. I have been in the company of great men and women whom I look up to. But no one else deserves reverence like God himself.
Just Ask
So, if you are spending a lot of time scratching your head wondering what your next move might be, just ask. God will give you the wisdom you need. He wants to guide you and direct your life. He can be trusted. His nature and character are love, goodness, kindness, mercy and justice.
Reach out to the one who reaches out to you today with the offer of wisdom. It’s not a bother to him. And you will never be put on hold.
Don’t dig a hole for yourself. Make the First Call. Just ask.