Wake Up Call (Proverbs 4:7)

I first entered private practice in 1994, fresh from my fellowship training with my medical specialty board certification in hand. I was confident and knowledgeable, or so I thought. I eagerly attended my first hospital tumor board, ready to contribute my prodigious knowledge of the latest treatment and diagnostic tests for diseases. I was greeted by an erudite panel of surgeons, oncologists, and radiation oncologists, all of whom rattled off numerous studies supporting their treatment options for the patients.

And I soon learned that many issues that patients and physicians face in private practice are seldom, if ever, discussed within the academic ivory towers of university medical centers. There were concerns of insurance payments and denials, interhospital politics, social service support dealing with nursing home and hospice care. If I were to survive in private practice, I needed to reorient my thinking. It was a definite wake up call! I consulted with my pathology group, sought advice from friendly surgeons and oncologists, and slowly, I began to learn and understand the subtle but important nuances of becoming a complete physician. I had the head knowledge but did not have the understanding to properly apply it in different practice settings.

Wisdom is the principal thing; Therefore get wisdom.

And in all your getting, get understanding.

Proverbs 4:7 (NKJV)

In my spiritual walk with God, I have had many similar wake up calls. I have a book knowledge of the Bible and can quote verses and discuss theological themes. But when I am confronted with a frustrated seeker dealing with a difficult life situation, pleading with me to show me where God is in his chaotic circumstances, I freeze and stumble. Slowly, God has given me wisdom, understanding and insight. It has not been easy and I continue to pray to God for direction. He has answered me, gently and firmly, and guided me with sensitivity into situations when I need to apply God’s Word for the sake of myself and others.

Get wisdom and get understanding! God’s wake up calls for my life place me in situations when I need to rely upon His insight and not my head knowledge.

Praise God!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.