Wisdom

Wisdom

The wise are known for their understanding, and instruction is appreciated if it’s well presented.

Proverbs 16:21

One summer my husband, three young sons, and I went camping at a state park in Door County, Wisconsin. We had just spent a couple of hours setting up the camper, organizing our belongings, and building a fire for later in the evening when I heard Nate cry out in pain. While shimmying down a tree, he had snagged one of his hands on a sharp piece of bark. After looking at his nasty four-inch gash, there was not a doubt in my mind that we needed to seek medical help. We threw a clean towel over his hand, packed the family into our station wagon, and drove to the closest emergency room.

The physician on duty was kind to Nate and calmly explained what needed to happen. Before the doctor injected some necessary painkiller, he winked at my husband and me. Then he held out a large, round tray containing two needles—one mammoth and one midget. He looked at Nate and asked, “Which one would you like me to use?” You already know which one Nate chose. Jim and I were grateful that the doctor made a wise presentation in the middle of a painful situation.

By observing the emergency room doctor, I learned a helpful lesson. Hardly a day goes by in my role as a mom that I don’t have to deal with some unpleasant task or situation. Spending a few moments thinking and praying about how to present my plans is a wise thing to do.

Father,

Please give us creative ideas about how to be wise with our children. Amen.