with devotion: PROVERBS

Showing posts with label PROVERBS. Show all posts

Thick Skin, Soft Heart

Another retro post from the blog archive. Since 2007 it has been read over 2,000 times. Enjoy ...

Ever think about those people who seem to have a thick skin? People who don't get easily offended. My friend Jim received some wisdom from the Holy Spirit on this. He told me that thick skin will keep wounds from penetrating our heart. I find that idea to be so fascinating. It reminds me of this verse in Proverbs 4:

"Watch over your heart with all diligence, For from it flow the springs of life."

Developing a tough thick skin is a way that we can guard our hearts from the wounds that cause it to develop a hard crust. I read that having a thick skin is being able to withstand criticism. Ouch, I don't like that because I don't like being criticised ... I much prefer the idea of being able to withstand wounds - sound a bit more noble. Keeping criticism out of our heart is so hard because many of us are such people pleasers.

Love seems to be one of the ways to keep our hearts soft. Peter puts it this way in the fourth chapter of his first epistle:

"Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins."

Over the past year I have developed a phrase that has helped me keep my heart soft. When I am hurt by another I will often say to myself: "I will not be offended!" I think that it is my way of letting love cover another's hurtful words ... even if those words are not intended to hurt ... even if the criticism is not sin. As I have said this out loud I have felt something strengthen inside of me.

In Matthew 18 Jesus speaks to us of forgiving from our heart. Ever wonder why he said it that way? I like to think of forgiveness as God's heart softener. When wounds, criticisms and sins make it past our skin and pierce our heart forgiveness can make our heart soft again. Forgiveness guards our heart and keeps it from becoming hard. This is why it is so important to forgive.

To keep our heart soft is to keep it pure. Jesus, in the sermon on the mount, said it this way:

"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God."

The real issue of having a soft or pure heart is vision. A soft and pure heart will see God differently - clearer. The hard embittered heart is clouded at best and unable to see God clearly. You see, the heart is that place where we see God ... keeping it soft is the essence of knowing and seeing God in a wonderful way.

Who are you to pass judgment ...

As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions. One person believes he may eat anything, while the weak person eats only vegetables. Let not the one who eats despise the one who abstains, and let not the one who abstains pass judgment on the one who eats, for God has welcomed him. Who are you to pass judgment on the servant of another? It is before his own master that he stands or falls. And he will be upheld, for the Lord is able to make him stand. -Romans 14:1-4 ESV

Do you find it strange that, in light of these verses, people still argue over food. I know of one religious denomination that advocates the vegetarian lifestyle. The context for these verses was the way that some Jews were hanging on to the idea that foods like pork were to be abstained from. Apparently, the Law of Moses was still a strong force in the church at Rome. It is interesting how Paul tells people to not pass judgment after he judges some as weak.

I think that it is so easy to judge by outward appearances. One thing that life has taught me is that things are not always how they appear. Sometimes the ones who are the strongest on the outside are weak. Many times, people who preach the loudest about sin struggle with the things that they rail against. People will stand or fall before God. God is able to make the weakest stand. Our mission should be one that doesn't judge but helps people to stand.

Help us Lord to be humble encouragers and not pride-filled judges.

Making His Ways Ours

The twenty-first chapter of proverbs speaks to us about how our ways are not like the Lord's ways. In this chapter we discover that God's ways are patient ones bearing with us as travel life. It speaks to us of His heart for the poor and His desire for us to be kind, work hard, speak positively and not complain.

"The king's heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will. Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs te heart. To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice. Haughty eyes and a proud heart, the lamp of the wicked, are sin." (v1-4)

I love the way that these verses blends the ways of the Lords with the ways of a person. I think that it is so wonderful how God is portrayed as more of an influencer than a controller. He is interested in working with us to refine our attitudes, strengthen our innermost being and bring us to a place of humility.

"The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty. The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a snare of death." (v5-6)

I have often thought of how the ways of kingdom living have no shortcuts. We can not get to where God wants us to be when we use sinful shortcuts. I think that even prayers can be an attempt at shortcutting God's purposes when we offer them for selfish purposes.

"It is better to live in a corner of the housetop than in a house shared with a quarrelsome wife. ... It is better to live in a desert land than with a quarrelsome and fretful woman."(v9, 19)

I think that child or husband could be substituted for wife.. living with a complainer can be hard. That said I have to say that I live with a non-complainer - Ann could spend her days bemoaning the wheelchair she spends so much time in or the physical difficulties that she daily wrestles with but has chosen a path of being positive. Is so appreciate my wife's inner (and outer) beauty.. her discipline and attitude often puts this complainer to shame.

"Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself call out and not be answered.” (v13)

I have had a lot of dialog with my friends about whose responsibility it is to care for the poor. I consistently say that it is "our" responsibility. I hope that one day we believers will put the government out of a job - even if it is just a little bit.

"Whoever loves pleasure will be a poor man; he who loves wine and oil will not be rich. ... The desire of the sluggard kills him, for his hands refuse to labor. All day long he craves and craves, but the righteous gives and does not hold back." (v17, 25-26)

I have been concerned for some time at the growing fixation on pleasure in our society. It seems that the days of people working hard and supporting their families have given way to video games and online social networking. I pray that America will one day regain the prominence we once had in research, development and industry.

"Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor." (v21)

I love how righteousness and kindness are linked together in this verse. Possibly kindness is an evidence of real righteousness.

"A wise man scales the city of the mighty and brings down the stronghold in which they trust. Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble. “Scoffer” is the name of the arrogant, haughty man who acts with arrogant pride." (v22-24)

I think these three verses all involve our speech. I can often tell when I am most proud when I pay attention to what I say.

"No wisdom, no understanding, no counsel can avail against the Lord. The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the Lord." (v30-31)

I sometimes think that I am a pretty smart person.. I have lived so much of my life from my brain.. but so often life reminds me that I am not very wise about the most important things in life.. it is why I so desperately need to seek the Lord. Our ways are not His.. our love is not like His.. His ways do not fail.

Please click here to catch some of my other ponderings on the book of Proverbs.

Sins of a Weak Heart

The seventh chapter of proverbs is focused entirely on the temptations and consequences of sexual sin. It is so compelling to consider that Solomon, one of the wisest of all men, thought it so important to drill this information into the mind and heart of his son in so many proverbs.

"Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call insight your intimate friend” (v4)

I have often said that wisdom is an inner quality.. something that only your heart or innermost being can possess. The mind is a great tool for accumulating and assimilating information but it is not equipped to lead you in wise and insightful ways. It takes a humble heart to navigate life. It takes a strong heart to defeat sexual sin. And it is good to remember that a strong heart comes only from pumping spiritual iron.

"I have seen among the simple, I have perceived among the youths, a young man lacking sense"(v7)

In this verse we see the definition of a fool.. one who is simple and lacking in sense about the consequences of sexual sin. The remainder of the chapter is an indictment against such fools.

"With much seductive speech she persuades him; with her smooth talk she compels him. All at once he follows her, as an ox goes to the slaughter, or as a stag is caught fast till an arrow pierces its liver; as a bird rushes into a snare; he does not know that it will cost him his life." (v21-23)

Throughout the psalm Solomon weaves imagery like those of these verses in warning that the path of sexual sin is the way of death. In each psalm I have considered so far Solomon has warned his son to keep himself sexually pure.. it is like he wants his son to escape the heartbreak and death that this kind of sin has wreaked on his own life.

If you liked this post then please click here to catch some of my other ponderings on the book of Proverbs.

The Deep Waters of the Heart

The twentieth chapter of proverbs speaks to us of how the heart has deep waters that can be drawn out. It speaks to us of the negative influences of the flesh and the positive ones of the hearts. It identifies the weaknesses of alcohol, cheating, revenge and rash speech. The chapter is also filled with the attributes of steadfast love, wise counsel, purity of heart and the glory of gray hair.

"Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise." (v1)

Alcoholism is nasty.. those who are addicted lead lives that are devastated and bring devastation. It is why this verse speaks of being led astray by alcohol. Scripture advises moderation in these things.. it speaks negatively of drunkenness yet it also teaches us that Jesus changed water into wine. For 30 years I did not drink alcohol.. didn't feel I could exercise moderation.. these days I enjoy an occasional glass of wine.

"The purpose in a man's heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out." (v5)

My pastoral ministry involved all sorts of counseling opportunities. Many times I felt an opportunity to draw out the deep things in the hearts of people who were hurt, wounded or just seeking wisdom. It was often quite glorious to see friends weep with joy as they connected with the deep things of their heart.

"Many a man proclaims his own steadfast love, but a faithful man who can find?" (v6)

I sometimes think that life and love is all about being faithful. Really.. love that doesn't last.. is it really love at all?

"Who can say, “I have made my heart pure; I am clean from my sin”?" (v9)

I think that one difference between an Old Testament view and a New Testament view is the view of the heart or innermost being. The believers heart is pure.. it is not divided.. it is not wicked.. because of Jesus we have a new heart.. our issue is to fully live from it instead of our own understanding.

"Unequal weights and unequal measures are both alike an abomination to the Lord." "'Bad, bad,' says the buyer, but when he goes away, then he boasts." "Bread gained by deceit is sweet to a man, but afterward his mouth will be full of gravel." (v10, 14, 17)

How we treat each other is so important to God. His desire is that we love each other. You cannot love your neighbor and cheat him. Trying to get the best of another.. even at a garage sale..is simply wrong.. it should not make you feel good when it makes another feel bad.

"Plans are established by counsel; by wise guidance wage war." (v18)

Once my wife was advising me to seek counsel about a problem I was having.. I was not open to the idea.. she retorted and said "I thought you believed in counseling".. ouch. The things we need counseling on the most are often the things that we do not want to get advice on the most.. sometimes we need someone to tell us we need help

"An inheritance gained hastily in the beginning will not be blessed in the end." (v21)

Mostly it is better for wealth to accumulate over a long period of time. Most of us could not handle wealth or fame when we are young.. it is hard even when we are old.

"Do not say, “I will repay evil”; wait for the Lord, and he will deliver you." (v21)

We are never more like the enemy of our souls when we refuse to forgive and seek revenge.

"A man's steps are from the Lord; how then can man understand his way?" (v24)

We often walk through life not really understanding the things that happen to us until we seem them in hindsight. Until we do I think that it is best to be comfortable being uncomfortable.

"It is a snare to say rashly, “It is holy,” and to reflect only after making vows." (v25)

I have sometimes made a fool of myself by make commitments too quickly. Reminds me of what Jesus said about counting the cost before you make a commitment.

"The glory of young men is their strength, but the splendor of old men is their gray hair." (v29)

This verse comforts me greatly.. arthritis of my wrists and ankles have greatly decreased my strength.. yet I feel my innermost being is stronger than it has ever been.. not that I wouldn't mind have that strength or brown hair again.

Please click here to catch some of my other ponderings on the book of Proverbs.

Living a Life of Integrity

The nineteenth chapter of proverbs begins by speaking to us of how it is better to live a life of integrity. The chapter goes on to speak to us concerning what it means to walk out this integrity speaking to us of how we blame God.. of how we are attracted to money.. of foolish living.. and of the glory of forgiveness, generosity, love and the fear of the Lord.

"Better is a poor person who walks in his integrity than one who is crooked in speech and is a fool." (v1)

Is there a better thing to aspire to than integrity.. living an external life that is consistent with our innermost being challenges and inspires me.

"When a man's folly brings his way to ruin, his heart rages against the Lord." (v3)

Interesting how this verse speaks of God being blamed for a thing He had no part in. I think God has been blamed by so much of our folly. Sometimes we err when we confuse God with life.

"Many seek the favor of a generous man, and everyone is a friend to a man who gives gifts. All a poor man's brothers hate him; how much more do his friends go far from him!" (v6-7)

Verses like these teach us about the nature of wealth, popularity and influence and seem to be more reflective of those high school cliques that only the popular kids belonged to. So good to remember that Jesus hung out with those who were not popular, rich or influential.

"It is not fitting for a fool to live in luxury, much less for a slave to rule over princes." (v10)

Not sure that I fall into this same category but I once dreamed of managing a large software team.. in 2000 the dream came true when I was promoted and began managing 70 people.. then the dream turned into a nightmare.. I was not a good fit for the position.. be careful what you wish for.. some of our dreams can be a bit foolish

"Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense." (v11)

It can be so hard to forgive when someone offends you. This verse turns forgiveness inside out and shows us how we can model Christ-likeness when we simply overlook an offense.

"A foolish son is ruin to his father, and a wife's quarreling is a continual dripping of rain. House and wealth are inherited from fathers, but a prudent wife is from the Lord." (v13-14)

This verse speaks deeply to me of the impact that our family has on us.. there is nothing more precious to us than our spouses and children.. it tears us up when they hurt. One of the hardest things I have ever experienced was watching my children grieve when their mother died.

"Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed." (v17)

This verse to me says so much about giving.. it says to be generous.. it gives the poor as our focus of giving.. it equates this kind of giving as unto the Lord.. and it says that God sees and repays us when we do it. So much of Christian giving these days is focused on everything but the poor.. take this verse to heart and be generous when you tip the poor waitress.. and find a local food pantry to lavishly donate to.

"Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand." (v21)

It is good to have plans as long as we are flexible in living them out. Comforting to know that God will adjust our plans to conform to His purposes of making us like Jesus.

"What is desired in a man is steadfast love, and a poor man is better than a liar." (v22)

These days much is made of macho men.. we adore them on the football field and love to watch them in the movies. This verse tells us that the hallmark of a real man is love.

"The fear of the Lord leads to life, and whoever has it rests satisfied; he will not be visited by harm." (v24)

Much has been said of the fear of the Lord.. the way that I think of it is someone who factors the Lord into every part of their life because the the overwhelming awe they have towards Him.

Please click here to catch some of my other ponderings on the book of Proverbs.

Walking the Walk We Talk

The eighteenth chapter of proverbs speaks to us instructing us in ways that will cause us to walk humbly and successfully in life. In this chapter we are advised to: be connected with other believers; avoid partially; guard our speech and run to God in humility. The passage also speaks to pain, gifts and our relationships with others.

"Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment." (v1)

This verse speaks loudly to me of my need for others in the body of Christ. Sometimes it is so hard to find time to be just be with brother and sisters in Jesus.. especially in ways that are transparent and vulnerable.

"It is not good to be partial to the wicked or to deprive the righteous of justice." (v5)

Partiality seems to be the partner of injustice. So often my predisposition for one side of an issue will cloud my sense of right and wrong. It is so hard sometimes to differentiate opinion from fact.

"A fool's lips walk into a fight, and his mouth invites a beating. A fool's mouth is his ruin, and his lips are a snare to his soul. The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels; they go down into the inner parts of the body." (v6-8)

Verses like these makes me want to take a vow of silence. I have never been more a fool than when I say foolish things cloaked in sanctimony.. I think that religious pride often manifests in this way. Interesting how these verses seem to speak to the diverse affects of foolish speech.. sometimes we do not really know how foolish we are.

"The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe. A rich man's wealth is his strong city, and like a high wall in his imagination. Before destruction a man's heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor." (v10-12)

Quite a contrast in these verses between a person who trusts the Lord and one who trusts in themselves. In these times of financial turmoil it is good to remember that the name of Jesus is more than a way to end a prayer.

"A man's spirit will endure sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear?" (v14)

Again we see contrast.. this time it is between external and internal pain.. both are so real.. both can cause much suffering.. and sometimes healing does not seem to come.. externally and internally. I have to admit that.. as this verse seems to indicate.. for me the external pain is much easier to endure.

"A man's gift makes room for him and brings him before the great." (v16)

Many times our natural and spiritual gifts open doors that would otherwise remain shut.. of course it is on us to walk through them

"The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him." (v17)

I have learned so much over these past years from disparate points of view. I do not always change (I guess I rarely change) my views but I always seem to come away from a debate with a better understanding of why I believe the way that I do.

"A brother offended is more unyielding than a strong city, and quarreling is like the bars of a castle." (v19)

I have been on both sides of this.. have offended and have been offended. My inclination in both cases is to pursue reconciliation.. but I have sadly found that reconciliation cannot come simply because I want it.

"He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord." (v22)

I have been blessed in this life with two wonderful women who both inspire me to seek the Lord. In both I have experienced the Lord's favor in my life!

"A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." (v24)

A great way to end this group of proverbs. I have experienced the closeness of friends but nothing can match the closeness of Jesus.

Please click here to catch some of my other ponderings on the book of Proverbs.

Crucibles of the Heart

The seventeenth chapter of proverbs begins with a statement reflecting God's purposes for us in trials and testings. As we read through this chapter we see evidences of hearts that are strong and ones that are weak. We see the various crucibles and furnaces that we are purified in.. in these places God can strengthen our hearts in wonderful ways.

"The crucible is for silver, and the furnace is for gold, and the Lord tests hearts." (v3)

When I think about crucibles and furnaces I think about the refining qualities of heat and fire. Silver and gold are purified by fire. We are also tested and refined by the fires of affliction and trial. And through these fires we come to understand who we really are as all of the bad stuff comes to the surface and is skimmed away by the Lord. Trials have a way of stripping off all of our religious clothing leaving us standing clothed in the God's armor alone.

Following are a few of the crucibles and furnaces that God uses in His refining process:

"An evildoer listens to wicked lips, and a liar gives ear to a mischievous tongue." (v4)

Our ears and our lips often reveal the strength of our hearts. So often our flesh speaks and hears because it is stronger than our heart.

"Whoever mocks the poor insults his Maker; he who is glad at calamity will not go unpunished." (v5)

"Whoever covers an offense seeks love, but he who repeats a matter separates close friends." (v9)

"If anyone returns evil for good, evil will not depart from his house." (v13)

A person filled with ingratitude will turn on the one who does them good and reveals much about the weakness of their heart.

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." (v17)

Adversity tests our friendship and our love. A strong heart loves when adversity comes but a weak heart gives way to the flesh.

"A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." (v22)

Absolutely one of my favorite verses in scripture. Keeping our joy in the midst of trial and suffering is evidence of a strong heart.. and a strong heart is good medicine.

God's purpose in trials and sufferings is to produce strong hearts through a process of refining and purifying. When trials come we have an opportunity to lean into our hearts and reject the temptations of the flesh. I pray that God will help us all as we journey through these crucibles of the heart.

Please click here to catch some of my other ponderings on the book of Proverbs.

The Plans of Our Heart

The sixteenth chapter of proverbs is filled with instruction about our hearts. We are told to submit our plans to the Lord and watch Him establish our steps. The chapter contrasts those who are arrogant in heart with those who are humble in heart.. those who do worthless acts and those who are filled with acts of wisdom.

"The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the LORD. All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the spirit. Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established." (v1-3) "The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps." (v9)

In these verses we see a contrast between the roles of man and those God. They seem to indicate that it is good for a man to have plans as long as man realizes that God has the last word on our plans. Also present is the idea that we do not always know our motives.. sometimes God will reject our plans if our motives are not right. I love how it says that God's goal is to establish those plans that we have submitted to Him. In these verses we see how we and He work together to brings His plans in our heart to pass.

"The LORD has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of trouble. Everyone who is arrogant in heart is an abomination to the LORD; be assured, he will not go unpunished. By steadfast love and faithfulness iniquity is atoned for, and by the fear of the LORD one turns away from evil. When a man's ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him." (v4-7)

Again we see that the Lord is cognizant of each human heart. He wants to be in relationship with each of us yet some spurn Him and pursue wickedness instead. In arrogance humans reject the Lord who loves them and desires to forgive them and share His love with them. To such that return God's love to Him in worship He gives atoning blessings of peace.

"Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues with injustice." (v8)

Solomon lays bare greedy motives bare. I have often said that for some wealth is more of a curse than a blessing. If we love money then it is better that we do not have it. If we love God then He will supply all we need.

"It is an abomination to kings to do evil, for the throne is established by righteousness. Righteous lips are the delight of a king, and he loves him who speaks what is right. A king's wrath is a messenger of death, and a wise man will appease it. In the light of a king's face there is life, and his favor is like the clouds that bring the spring rain." (v12-15)

The Lord cares about how people use the power and authority that they have. The old adage, "Absolute power corrupts absolutely", is a true one.. corruption is imminent when people do not submit themselves to God and others. I have found this particularly true in the church. Senior pastors were removed from their positions in three of the last four churches I have been involved with. I so wish that they would have humbled themselves when elders confronted them.

"The highway of the upright turns aside from evil; whoever guards his way preserves his life. Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. It is better to be of a lowly spirit with the poor than to divide the spoil with the proud. Whoever gives thought to the word will discover good, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD." (v16-20)

I have found that in God's economy humility is not an option.. you either humble yourself or God will do it for you.. and the latter often looks like humiliation. Interesting how evil and pride seem to be linked together.. humility and trusting God also seem to go hand-in-hand.

"The wise of heart is called discerning, and sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness. Good sense is a fountain of life to him who has it, but the instruction of fools is folly. The heart of the wise makes his speech judicious and adds persuasiveness to his lips. Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body." (21-24)

Jesus said that we speak what is abundantly in our heart. It instructs me to do things that will strengthen my heart and make it wise. I think that a good regimen of spiritual food and exercise will give us strong hearts that will speak wise, sweet, judicious and gracious words.

"A worthless man plots evil, and his speech is like a scorching fire. A dishonest man spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends. A man of violence entices his neighbor and leads him in a way that is not good. Whoever winks his eyes plans dishonest things; he who purses his lips brings evil to pass." (v27-30)

Interesting how graphically these verses describe "a worthless man".. evil planning.. scorching speech.. spreading strife.. coming between friends.. leading folks astray.. and winking at dishonesty.

"Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life. Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city. The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD." (v31-32)

These verses speak to us about how God sees those who persevere and live temperate lives. I have been a believer since I was 26 but I think that I started to really live a more spiritual life when gray came to my hair.. there is something about age that can mature us spiritually if we persevere with Jesus. My issues with anger began to resolve as my heart became stronger than my emotions.. not that I am anger-free :)

"The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD." (v33)

A great verse to end the chapter on.. God will always have the last word on our lives.. His grace will always trump our failings.. He decision will prevail.

Please click here to catch some of my other ponderings on the book of Proverbs.

Successful Relationships and Lives

The fifteenth chapter of proverbs instructs us in ways to create and maintain healthy relationships.. we are told of the importance of gentle words when we disagree with each other. Keys for success are given to us as King Solomon speaks of hard work, wise counselors and being teachable.

"A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." (v1), "A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit. (v4)

The importance of communication in a relationship cannot be overstated.. it is why prayer and listening to God's voice is so important. The problem with harsh words is that once spoken they cannot be taken back.. it is why it is so important not to fuel each others anger.. when a friend is angry it is best to listen and respond with understanding and life giving words.

"The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good." (v3)

God's omnipresence and omniscience is mind-boggling.. the idea that He is everywhere and knows our thoughts is a bit freaky. It is also comforting to know that nothing can separate us from our loving God.

"The way of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord, but he loves him who pursues righteousness." (v9), The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord, but gracious words are pure. (v26)

My thoughts first focused on the word abomination.. I meditated on it and wondered why someone's way or thoughts would disgust the Lord.. then my eyes caught the word "wicked" and thought of how wickedness disgusts me.. especially my personal wicked ways like unforgiveness and bitterness. Of course the antidote for all manner of wicked thought and behavior is the pursuit of righteousness.

"A glad heart makes a cheerful face, but by sorrow of heart the spirit is crushed." (v13)

Thoreau once wrote: “Most men lead lives of quiet desperation and go to the grave with the song still in them.” I have found that even in profound sadness God has given a song in my heart. When my first wife died I found daily heartfelt worship to be great medicine for my heart. When I feel sad I will often listen to (and sometimes cry with) a few worship songs.. it is good for my heart.

"Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble with it. Better is a dinner of herbs where love is than a fattened ox and hatred with it." (v16-17)

Verse 17 in a way interprets 16.. love never fails.. when love is present is causes the poor man to persevere.. when it is absent even the wealthy lose heart.

"The way of a sluggard is like a hedge of thorns, but the path of the upright is a level highway." (v19)

Thomas Jefferson once said: "I'm a great believer in luck and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it." Sometimes some appear to be luckier or more blessed.. according to this verse you could infer that blessing follows hard work.

"Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed." (v22)

The cornerstone of good decisions is often good advisers. It is not that these folks are that much smarter than you.. they just have a way of bringing out the best in you and helping you see things that you didn't before.

"Whoever ignores instruction despises himself, but he who listens to reproof gains intelligence. The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honor." (v32-33)

These two verses connect being unteachable with pride. It is often hard to listen to criticism.. I once heard a pastor preach that there is not such thing as constructive criticism.. like him many miss out on the blessings of reproof by discounting it as negativity. Sad because often our critics know us the best :)

Please click here to catch some of my other ponderings on the book of Proverbs.

Ways that seem Right but are Not

The fourteenth chapter of proverbs presents us with the contrasts of living lives pleasing to the Lord and living lives at odds with his ways. This chapter speaks to: wisdom and folly; the inner joy of bitterness; naivety and prudence; taking car of the poor; and what is means for a nation to be pleasing to God.

"The wisest of women builds her house, but folly with her own hands tears it down." (v1)

Building and walking.. great images of what it is like to be in relationship with the Lord.. interesting that something good that we built can be torn down by our foolish actions.

"Whoever walks in uprightness fears the Lord, but he who is devious in his ways despises him." (v2)

I love how uprightness and deviousness are contrasted.. I think that integrity is a mark of a person who fears the Lord.

"Where there are no oxen, the manger is clean, but abundant crops come by the strength of the ox." (v4)

Ever heard someone say "We can disagree as long as we are not disagreeable"? Kind of a great one-liner isn't it? I like the idea but I have to say that when we are working side-by-side things often get pretty messy.. egos clash and pride comes full bore.. but often strength comes as strong people learn to work together to produce an abundant crop.

"Leave the presence of a fool, for there you do not meet words of knowledge." (v7)

Verses 5-9 are replete with contrasts.. faithful vs false witness.. scoffer vs man of understanding.. prudent vs fool.. mock vs enjoy. And wedged in these contrasts is this verse that in essence counsels us to not associate with fools. It is sometimes hard.. they sometimes feed the darkest parts of us and draw us to scoffing, lying and mocking.

"The heart knows its own bitterness, and no stranger shares its joy." (v10)

How I wish that I did not understand this verse. I have visited the house of bitterness on occasion and know the insidious affects that it has had on my life. There is a perverse joy in bitterness and unless pulled up by it's roots bitterness can defile so much of our lives. Better to savor the sweetness of life.

"There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death." (v12)

The mind is a wonderful tool.. it can do amazing things.. it can even make unwise interpretations of scripture. Living from your head, instead of your heart, will often lead you in the ways of death.

"The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps." (v15)

Interesting how the scriptures teach us to have childlike faith but also teach us to be prudent in the ways that we live. Sometimes we do the most imprudent things in the name of childlike faith.. which is usually just religiousness and not faith at all.

"The poor is disliked even by his neighbor, but the rich has many friends. Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor." (v20-21)

Money often brings out the worst in us.. how we use it tests our mettle.. it's affect on us says a lot about us. In Matthew's gospel Jesus told us that how we use money is a reflection of what we treasure the most. Sadly many of us do not treasure the poorest amongst us at all.

"Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." (v34)

I want to read this verse and speak to the national sins of our day but I do not think that this is the sense of it. Here is the way that Gill comments on it:

Administered by the government, and exercised by subjects towards one another; doing justice between man and man: this exalts a nation, as it did the people of Israel, while practised among them; this sets a people above their neighbours, and high in the esteem of God and men; and is attended with privileges and blessings, which make a nation great and honourable.

Being an honorable nation is at its heart caring for each other and treating each other with mercy and respect. We suffer when our laws do less.

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Poverty that makes you Rich

The thirteenth chapter of proverbs again addresses what is means to be successful in the eyes of the Lord. Riches and wealth are discussed with relationship to our work habits, our savings habits and our relationship to God and His word. Other things like discipline, contentment and our speech are also mentioned.

"Righteousness guards him whose way is blameless, but sin overthrows the wicked." (v6)

The first five verses contrast the ways that the righteous and unrighteous work and speak. I think that this verse ties those verses together. My desire is to show myself blameless in the way that I work and speak.. not that it is easy :)

"One pretends to be rich, yet has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth." (v7)

Albert Barnes comments on this verse in this way: "There is a seeming wealth behind which there lies a deep spiritual poverty and wretchedness. There is a poverty which makes a person rich for the kingdom of God." Reminds me what Jesus said in the Beatitudes of how we are blessed when we are poor in spirit.

"Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it." (v11)

For me the heart of conservatism is not only the way that we use the resources that God has entrusted to us but how those resources are acquired. Many who preach the health and wealth gospel sometimes advocate a manner of receiving that is not consistent with this verse when they speak of how God wants to lavish wealth on folks who simply pray but are not faithful to work and accumulate "little by little".

"Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life." (v12)

There is a difference between hope and expectations.. many times we pray and expect life to change.. this is not what hope is all about. Romans 5:5 tells us that hope does not disappoint. If we find ourselves in a place of disappointment we should consider evaluating our expectations.

"Whoever despises the word brings destruction on himself, but he who reveres the commandment will be rewarded." (v13)

I heard it said once that you really do not break the scriptures - they break you. I have brought destruction on myself and on my family by breaking not so much the letter of God's word but the spirit of it.

"Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm." (v20)

Much of this chapter is reflective of this verse.. and lest we think it does not relate to we church folks.. my experience is that some of my worst behaviors (i.e. works righteousness, judgmentalism and legalism) were learned amongst fellow believers.

"A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, but the sinner's wealth is laid up for the righteous." (v17)

The idea of leaving a legacy is a scriptural one for sure. Do you have a legal will? How about a spiritual one? What kind of legacy are you leaving?

"Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him." (v24)

This is probably one of the most over-quoted verses in the bible. Proverbs 29:15 expands on the verse a bit more saying that the rod and reproof give wisdom. I think that the environment of discipline should always be within the bounds of a loving relationship.. loving words should always accompany any form of discipline.

"The righteous has enough to satisfy his appetite, but the belly of the wicked suffers want." (v25)

The hallmark of a believer is one of a contented life. Better to have a little with God that a lot without Him.

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If You Speak It You Eat It

The twelfth chapter of proverbs speaks to the way that we work and the way that we speak. The thing that strikes me about both of these is that they both impact our lot in life and they are both within our power to control. In a general sense we really do reap what we sow.

"Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid." (v1)

The heart of being a disciple is being disciplined and the heart of discipline is humility. Unfortunately our inner issues of pride and ego surface when we are corrected by others and even when we are disciplined by the Lord.

"An excellent wife is the crown of her husband, but she who brings shame is like rottenness in his bones." (v4)

The converse of this is true as well.. truth is (in my opinion) more husbands bring shame than wives. Our hearts should be to always consider our spouses in the way that we live.. our lives should be a source of life in their lives.

"The wicked are overthrown and are no more, but the house of the righteous will stand." (v7)

There is an eternal aspect to a faith built on a solid foundation. Here is the way that Jesus put it: “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you? Everyone who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you what he is like: he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when a flood arose, the stream broke against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built. But the one who hears and does not do them is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. When the stream broke against it, immediately it fell, and the ruin of that house was great.”

"Whoever is righteous has regard for the life of his beast, but the mercy of the wicked is cruel." (v10)

The lesson here is not the care of animals but the importance of compassion. Jesus told the religious folks of His day that God desires compassion and not religious activities. Of course I do think that how we care for animals says something about us.

"Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless pursuits lacks sense." (v11)

Whether is is in a cubicle, a factory or on a farm hard work is honorable. I once told my son that the thing that makes money worth anything is work and not gold.. the work standard, not the gold standard, makes an economy prosperous.

"An evil man is ensnared by the transgression of his lips, but the righteous escapes from trouble. From the fruit of his mouth a man is satisfied with good, and the work of a man's hand comes back to him." (v13-14)

I once heard a message titled "If you speak it you eat it". The law of sowing and reaping is applicable to our speech as well as our work. We harvest what we plant.

"Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment." (v17)

This verse wraps up several ones that compare speech in terms of: foolish or wise; insulting; honest testimony vs false witness; rash or healing words; and truth or lies. What we say is so important.. we have the power to bless or to curse.. to encourage or put down. People so need our speech to be full of wise and healing words.

"Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad." (v25)

Encouragement is an enduring kingdom principle.. I sometimes think that we are most like God when we are blessing others with our words. I like this anonymous quote: “A word of encouragement during a failure is worth more than an hour of praise after success”.

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Nourishing Relationships

The eleventh chapter of proverbs speaks to the horizontal relationship that we have with others. Spiritual fruit like humility, integrity, generosity and kindness is shown to lead us in paths of life.. this fruit is essential in nourishing our relationships with others.

"A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is his delight." (v1)

This verse shows that God is passionately interested in the way that we treat each other. We see this passion in the ten commandments.. six of those commands are targeted at the way that we interact with each other.

"When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom. The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them." (v2-3)

Humility and integrity are linked together with wisdom.. in a sense it is impossible to be wise if you are proud and lack integrity.

"The righteousness of the blameless keeps his way straight, but the wicked falls by his own wickedness. The righteousness of the upright delivers them, but the treacherous are taken captive by their lust. (v5-6) The righteous is delivered from trouble, and the wicked walks into it instead." (v8)

There is a wisdom that comes when we follow the Lord with our heart.. it is a wisdom that leads us in straight paths and delivers us from trouble.. but it is a wisdom that can cost.. sometimes following Him leads us to places we would rather not go.

"By the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is overthrown." (v11)

A good reminder that our cities, states and nations need us.. our governments are blessed when we are involved.. it reminds me that all that is required for evil to triumph is for good people to do nothing.

"Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing covered." (v13)

A reminder that we are called to be trustworthy people. There is nothing like gossip.. even in the form of a "prayer request".. to hurt and wound the people that God loves.

"Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety." (v14)

Counselors can come in the strangest places.. if we are open to His voice we will often hear some of the wisest things. It is essential that we seek out and listen to His voice in others.

"A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself." (v17)

This reminds me of the golden rule.. we must always treat others with kindness.. it is the way that we ourselves want to be treated. When we are kind we are manifesting a fruit of God's Spirit.

"One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want. Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered." (v24-25)

Generosity is a kingdom principle.. give and it will be given to you. If you have a benevolent heart you will want to bless people with what the Lord has blessed you with.

"The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and whoever captures souls is wise." (v30)

Adam Clarke puts it this way: "Wisdom seeks to reclaim the wanderers; and he who is influenced by wisdom will do the same." Our lives are meant to be a reflection of Christ.. nourishing people with spiritual fruit and drawing all people to Him.

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Sweetness in My Life

The tenth chapter of proverbs again offers a practical side to wisdom. It offers us wise advice about children, wealth, work, love, and our speech. Don't you just love these proverbs? The lessons are ageless.. they have brought such a sweetness to my life.

"A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish son is a sorrow to his mother." (v1)

I think that many parents of teenagers might understand this verse in a different context than parents of younger children.. and yes.. I am smiling. Parenting is a mixed experience.. the truth is that sometimes our children make wise choices and sometimes they do not - just like us.. it is the way of life. Experience has taught me that as our children age they really only need one thing from us - our unconditional love.. they do not need our judgment or criticism.. and if we love them they will (eventually) come to us for our advice.

"Treasures gained by wickedness do not profit, but righteousness delivers from death. The Lord does not let the righteous go hungry, but he thwarts the craving of the wicked." (v2-3)

There is something to be said about living a not-for-profit life. In my life greed and envy have produced nothing but misery.. but really trusting in God to meet my needs produces a sweetness in my life.

"He who gathers in summer is a prudent son, but he who sleeps in harvest is a son who brings shame." (v5)

It is said that we should live like this is our last day but we should plan like we will never die. I find life to be a balancing act.. wisdom is not only about today.. it is about counting the costs of tomorrow as well.

"The wise of heart will receive commandments, but a babbling fool will come to ruin" (v9)

A good reminder that wisdom is a quality of the heart.. it is not about intelligence.. I suspect that some of the wisest people do not have a really high IQ.

"Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses." (v12)

Many times when I am offended I will hear the Holy Spirit softly tell me to let love cover the offense. When He does I will generally respond like this: "I relinquish my right to be offended.. I renounce all ill feeling towards Joe.. Lord please fill me up with your love for Joe".

"The lips of the righteous feed many, but fools die for lack of sense." (v21) "The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, but the perverse tongue will be cut off." (v31)

Everyone can feed the soul of a friend.. everyone can encourage and bless others with their words.. it is an awesome power that our words can have when we speak from our wise heart.

"Like vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, so is the sluggard to those who send him." (v26)

What graphic imagery.. smoke in your eyes can really burn.. employing a lazy person can do the same.

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The Practicality of Wisdom

The ninth chapter of proverbs offers a practical side to wisdom. It speaks to us about how our future is established by following wisdom.. tells us of our need to be wise in the way that we relate to others.. and the indispensability of wisdom in resisting the tempting voice of foolishness.

"Wisdom has built her house; she has hewn her seven pillars." (v1) "Leave your simple ways, and live, and walk in the way of insight.” (v6)

Jesus said that before we build a house we should count the costs involved. I have found that wisdom often costs me in the short haul.. sometimes it is harder to do the wise thing.. may times my flesh and ego takes a hit when I act wisely. Good to count the costs because rejecting wisdom always costs us more in the long haul.

"Whoever corrects a scoffer gets himself abuse, and he who reproves a wicked man incurs injury." (v7)

We really need wisdom to know when, how and who to correct. Many people do not want to be told that they are wrong.. not that I have ever rejected correction :) I think that there is just something humbling about being corrected.. and so often our pride just can't handle it.

"If you are wise, you are wise for yourself; if you scoff, you alone will bear it." (v12)

This verse simply seems wrong at first glance.. it is almost like Solomon is saying that there is a selfishness to wisdom.. but I do not think that is what he is talking about. He is saying that wisdom is out there.. we are responsible to apprehend it and follow its lead.. if we reject wisdom then we alone are responsible for the consequences.

"The woman Folly is loud ... calling to those who pass by ... “Stolen water is sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.” But he does not know that the dead are there, that her guests are in the depths of Sheol." (v13a, 15a, 17-18)

Interesting how Folly is depicted having a loud voice.. so often wisdom comes with a quiet subdued voice.. you can miss it if you are insensitive to the Spirit's voice. The voice of Folly is one of temptation.. it screams at us and presents sin as sweet and desirable.. and it often is for the moment.. but the end of Folly's path is death.. a sobering reminder.

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The Gift of Wisdom and Understanding

The eighth chapter of proverbs is rife with the imagery of wisdom. It speaks of wisdom standing and calling out.. and of understanding raising her voice. It speaks of knowledge, instruction and wisdom as being better than fine metals and gems.. as things that are priceless because they are given by God.

"Does not wisdom call? Does not understanding raise her voice? Take my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is better than jewels, and all that you may desire cannot compare with her.” (v10-11)

I find wisdom and understanding to be interesting commodities.. sometimes we seek them out and they seem to be nowhere to be found.. and often they present themselves at the oddest times. Like the Holy Spirit wisdom and understanding are things which we flow with as they are revealed to us.. as we navigate through life seeking the Lord these gifts are often simply manifested to us as we need them.. it is like the only way to get them is to not seek them but seek their source.. you know.. seek God.

"The fear of the Lord is hatred of evil. Pride and arrogance and the way of evil and perverted speech I hate."(v13)

In this verse we see a definition of what it means to fear the Lord. I want this verse to mean that I am to hate the evil in you.. but I suspect it means that if I fear the Lord I will hate and subsequently refuse the lure of evil in my life. I think that humility is the key to this kind of fear.

"I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me." (v17)

I am glad that this speaks about wisdom and not about God.. i.e. God's love is not conditional on us loving Him. This verse does seem to contradict what I just wrote about wisdom and how we are not being able to find it when we seek it.. I don't think that is the case.. let me explain. In chapter 12 of 1Corinthians wisdom and knowledge are spoken of as a gifts of the Holy Spirit.. as such it is foolish to chase after these gifts because we are to pursue the Giver and not the gifts.

"And now, O sons, listen to me: blessed are those who keep my ways." (v32) "For whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the Lord" (v35)

I think that it is always good to remember that there is a blessing to seeking the Lord.. and often one of those blessings is the gift of wisdom.

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The Wisdom of Ants

In the sixth chapter of proverbs we read some dire warnings and admonitions about co-signing loans, laziness, inner sins and sexual immorality. We are instructed to be wise in our dealings with others.. to prepare for our futures.. to deal with the inner defects in our lives.. and to flee sexual temptations. We would do well to take these to heart.

"My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, have given your pledge for a stranger, if you are snared in the words of your mouth, caught in the words of your mouth, then do this, my son, and save yourself, for you have come into the hand of your neighbor: go, hasten, and plead urgently with your neighbor. Give your eyes no sleep and your eyelids no slumber; save yourself like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the hand of the fowler." (v1-5)

What a graphic image of a bird caught in a trap. I have often heard that partnerships are very difficult because of the level of trust that is required to be successful in them. We so need wisdom when we enter into an alliance with another. Our words can ensnare us and cause us a lot of grief. My advice is to always get it in writing.. even when you are doing business with Christian friends.

"Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise.” (v6) “A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man." (v11)

Hard work will bring you to places that nothing else will.. and laziness will do the same. In my late 30s I started to save for retirement through my companies 401k program.. each month I put a little bit away for my "golden years".. little did I understand that I would be retiring at age 49. That little habit of saving enabled me to take advantage of a great pension package by my company. It is good to remember that even the ant thinks ahead.

"There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him:

haughty eyes,
a lying tongue,
and hands that shed innocent blood,
a heart that devises wicked plans,
feet that make haste to run to evil,
a false witness who breathes out lies,and
one who sows discord among brothers." (v16-19)

This list amazes me.. lying is directly mentioned twice (#2 & 6) and indirectly once (#7). The inner workings of the heart (#4) are on the same list as the shedding of innocent blood. The list leads me to believe that pride (#1) and other inner qualities are so important to defeat to lead lives that please the Lord.

"He who commits adultery lacks sense; he who does it destroys himself."(v32)

The last half of this chapter again addresses instructions about sexual promiscuity. It reinforces the idea that sexual sin has terrible consequences. I think that a person does lose their senses when they commit adultery.. they destroy their reputation and bring calamity to their family.. their delusion and deception is great.

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Solomon on Sexual Temptation

In the fifth chapter of proverbs Solomon gives instruction to his son about sexual temptation and marital fidelity. Reading between the lines it seems that he is speaking a bit from both his good and bad experiences in this area. This should be required reading for all young men and women.

For the lips of a forbidden woman drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil, but in the end she is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a two-edged sword. Her feet go down to death; her steps follow the path to Sheol; she does not ponder the path of life; her ways wander, and she does not know it. (v3-6)

The text is very direct about sexual temptation. It speaks of the progression of temptation evolving from "innocent" flattery to death. Interesting that he seems to indicate that the woman is somewhat unaware of what she is doing.

“How I hated discipline, and my heart despised reproof! I did not listen to the voice of my teachers or incline my ear to my instructors. I am at the brink of utter ruin in the assembled congregation.” (v12b-14)

Being humble means that we are teachable. For so much of my life I was not.. I was spiritually arrogant and believed that all I needed was the Holy Spirit to teach me. Thank God for His mercy that opened up my eyes.

Drink water from your own cistern, flowing water from your own well. (v15) Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice in the wife of your youth, (v18)

The divorce statistics for church folks are shockingly similar to those outside the church. It is a sad fact that many do not find blessing in marital intimacy and for one reason or another engage in adulterous relationships. I think the operative word here is "rejoice".

For a man's ways are before the eyes of the Lord, and he ponders all his paths.(v23)

I do not know about you but that phrase "eyes of the Lord" is a bit unsettling. True enough that God sees us through eyes of love and compassion.. but.. just thinking of how nothing is hidden from Him, and He is constantly there, makes me want to bring a smile to eyes :)

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Keeping Your Heart

The fourth chapter of proverbs continues Solomon's instructions about the importance of wisdom and of the relationship of the heart, or the inner being, to wisdom and to life in general. This chapter also speaks to the merits of following God's lighted path.

When I was a son with my father, tender, the only one in the sight of my mother, he taught me and said to me, “Let your heart hold fast my words; keep my commandments, and live. (v3-4)

I love the imagery as this proverb begins.. the picture of a father teaching his son.. impressing on him the value of inner heart learning and how spiritual life comes from obedience.

The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight. (v7)

I love the straightforwardness of this verse.. if you want wisdom then do everything you can do to get it. This captures the heart of the seventh verse of Proverbs 1 that teaches that wisdom begins when we fear the Lord.. it is an issue of priorities.

But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day. The way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know over what they stumble. (v18-19)

These verses follow several other verses listing the perils of following wickedness and evil. Walking in the light is sometimes painful but I find it to be a benefit when I lay my head on the pillow at night with a clear conscience.

Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life. (v23)

Oh my.. what a verse.. maybe the most important thing we can do is to nurture and strengthen our heart. I think we err greatly when we violate the instructions of our heart because each time we do we allow our flesh to overrule our heart and suppress those rivers of living waters that Jesus told us about (John 7:38).

Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you. Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure. Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your foot away from evil. (v25-27)

Jesus spoke of our eyes as the lamp of our body.. I heard it said once that we become what we look at.. important lesson.. if you want stay out of one of those nasty ditches :)

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