Ask for understanding
5 Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
James 1:5Bible Reading
Daniel 8:15-16
15 While I, Daniel, was watching the vision and trying to understand it, there stood before me one having the appearance of a man. 16 And I heard the voice of a man calling from between the banks of the Ulai: “Gabriel, explain the vision to this man.”
Daniel sees a terrifying, complex vision. He does not understand it at first. But he does not shrug his shoulders and go to sleep. He actively tries to understand. And as he seeks understanding, God sends Gabriel to explain the vision. Think about your hardest class. Think about the textbook that feels like a foreign language. What do you do when you are confused? Do you close the book and watch a movie, or do you wrestle with it? God honors sincere effort. When you truly seek understanding, He can provide help. Sometimes He brings clarity directly to your mind. Often, He sends a "Gabriel" through ordinary means. He may lead you to the tutoring center. He may guide you to a helpful lecture or video. He may use a classmate to explain the formula in words you can finally understand. Do not sit in passive confusion. Seek understanding with courage. Ask for help. Swallow your pride. God has placed helpers around you. Ask them to explain the vision.
Action Point
Identify one topic that currently confuses you. Email your professor or teaching assistant today. Politely ask for a ten-minute meeting to help you understand the concept.
Prayer Point
Lord, I confess that I often let confusion defeat me. Please give me an active, searching mind. When I do not understand my schoolwork, give me the courage to ask for help. Thank You for the teachers and mentors You have provided to help me learn.
Reflection Point
Why am I afraid to ask questions in class? How does asking for an explanation show that I am a dedicated, excellent student?