Job 32:8-9. “But it is a spirit in man, and the breath of the Almighty gives them understanding. The abundant in years may not be wise, nor may elders understand justice.” LISTEN TO THE YOUNGER. Pay attention to that man – he has had the courtesy to wait. It is obvious he has something to say – look at his face, his body language. He is younger by far than you and may not have the experience you have – But he has the brains; the skills have been honed; he has learned from a different school. Your training place isn’t the only one God uses, so be quiet. Let him speak and give him the courtesy of your unlimited attention. Stop your chatter and don’t you dare roll your eyes! Listen; and you might learn a thing or two – or more!
He is not meddling because what he says is true – you have been unfair! You may not have understood the reasons for all that has happened – But why lay blame or be condemning when you don’t know – Everyone tries to put the best light on one’s self, but maybe there is another side –
Maybe you are not as “lily white” as you want everyone to think. Maybe there are some things you should take time to stop and learn. Give the young man a chance to say what is in his mind! Listen; and you might get a new perspective on things!
You didn’t think about that side of the issue, did you? It was only from your view you considered the matter. Sure; you were condemned by others, who isn’t some time or another. But he is right, “Great men are not always wise” – And “old men are not always smart” is a known fact! He is getting your attention, isn’t he – that’s good! Now what is he going to say that will give you some insight? Add his observations to your experience – and you will be wiser!
“Heavenly Father, I do thank Thee for some of the young men and women You have placed in my life. Certainly, I am grateful for the intelligence and spiritual understanding of these young brothers Thou hast allowed me to work with. Give me the sense to listen to them. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”
Job 32:8, 9. “But there is a spirit in man: and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding. Great men are not always wise: neither do the aged understand judgment.”
A SPIRIT IN MAN. It’s not always mine to demand from God an answer; For questions and decisions, are often far beyond; My ability or wisdom to discern what things are there for; Mine is the choice to accept, and travel on.
Just because I’m older and have learned some lessons well; Doesn’t mean I know it all and can’t be further taught. Age with understanding needs the grace of God to tell; The reasons for the problems may not be truly caught.
Understanding from Almighty God is always very near. But how I take His message, is therefore mine to choose. When I don’t demand to know, what’s often not too clear; He from His heart of love to me, my life He’s free to move.
The spirit of this man, with God’s Spirit then does blend; And the questions long unanswered, no longer trouble me. The wisdom so expected from me, God chose not to send. And my answer to men's questions is - “God let it be.”
He’s in control; it’s not my job to make things come to pass. The Almighty knows the truth in every heart that’s hidden. He speaks in pain and dreams, and visions too do flash Through life and seasons, that His will I do when bidden.
The younger often have some insight that in me is sometimes lost; Because of weights and measures, that I myself have drawn. So now I want to listen, and may have to count the cost; Of losing some pet theme or plan that hindered me so long.
My ears are now thus open, to hear what others say, And to heed and act upon their wisdom too. I may not understand nor know the answers here today; But I give them credit that through them God also speaks His truth.
“Father, please keep me from the arrogance of thinking I know it all because of age and/or experience. Help me to keep the heart and soul of a genuine learner with the spirit of a discerner by the “spirit in man.” In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”