I oftentimes say in prayer, “Grant me the wisdom to see Your will for my life and the courage to follow that will.” It is a request for true discernment to see that God’s will is always more important and fruitful than my own will. It is easy to fall into the trap of thinking happiness and fulfillment lie in doing what I want to do and following my own wants and desires. Our entire secular culture is filled with that message. However, that road has led too many to a place of emptiness and regret. I must pray to keep in the forefront of my mind that God created me on purpose and for a purpose. Being wise enough to see that purpose is the key to true satisfaction in this world.
Giving of our gifts and talents in only ways we want to means that we become deaf and blind to the numerous times Jesus Christ calls us to give. We also easily avoid any form of real sacrifice, which often leads us to give only from our excess. Wisdom allows us to see where we are being called, even if we are unsure what increase will result from our investment. Our trust is no longer in the gift given but instead in the One who is calling us to give. When our lives of generosity and compassion are ordered in this way, it is hard for anything to steal our joy away. Our purpose is found, our aim is true, and our desire is fulfilled.
Tracy Earl Welliver, MTS is the Director of Parish Community and Engagement for LPI, Inc. He has a BA in theology from DeSales University and a MTS from Duke Divinity School.