Word of the Wise
Today’s Verse:
To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings. ~Proverbs 1:6
The Book of Proverbs is very practical and helpful in making the right choices in life. It is a book centered on wisdom. Wisdom is making sound decisions, learning from the mistakes of others, assessing a situation as to the right decision, and being able to look ahead. Solomon starts the first chapter by describing it as the words of the wise.
We see the reverence.
There are two spiritual authorities in our daily life that we must revere. The first is the fear of God. This is the beginning of wisdom. We must give honor in our life. This is our praise and worship. We must give God our heart. Our heart’s devotion belongs to Him. The second authority is your father and mother. They are God’s moral and spiritual compass, beginning as an infant and continuing through young adulthood. The oversight of our parents through instruction and correction guides us in the way in which we should go.
We see the restriction.
“My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not.” Biblical wisdom places boundaries in our life. Watchful parents keep their children from having bad influences in their life. Paul said that evil communications corrupt good manners. Every proposal that would result in injury, property damage, or mischievous dealings should be avoided at all costs.
We see the refusal.
“My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path." Not only should there be boundaries in our life, but we must say no. We are not to walk in the counsel of the ungodly nor stand in the way of sinners. One of the most subtle areas in which a Christian young person falls away from the Lord is when his friendships are with weaker, non-committed, and less spiritual believers. It is one thing to have Christian friends. It is another thing to have Christian friends who pull you away from the Lord. Refrain thy foot from their path.
We see the repentance.
“Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you.” Wisdom is listening for the voice of God at all times in our life. If we should fall into sin, we should be willing to be humble and repent to God of our sin. When the Lord uses His Word to rebuke us of sin in our life, we must respond quickly. There is mercy and forgiveness with the Lord when we repent and confess our sin.
We see the refuge.
“But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.” Our obedience to the words of the wise provides us safety and a refuge from heartache, chastening, and regret. We find peace for our life and comfort knowing that we have made the right choices in our life.
Make the reading of Proverbs and God’s Word the priority of your life. Walk in its precepts, promises, and path. Pray for wisdom as God promises to give it to us liberally and upbraideth not.
Have a wisdom-filled God Morning!
Bible Reading Schedule: Ezekiel 40-42