In this chapter, Solomon tells us that there is nothing more precious than wisdom. Here’s the chapter in its entirety: “My child, never forget the things I have taught you. Store my commands in your heart, for they will give you a long and satisfying life. Never let loyalty and kindness get away from you! Wear them like a necklace; write them deep within your heart. Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will gain a good reputation. (Yes, Lord! Help us be loyal and kind always!)
Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your paths. (Wow! What a powerful scripture! First, we must trust in the Lord; then we need to get out of our own way and ignore what we think we know; and finally, we need to make God a part of everything we do. If we do those things, the Lord will guide us like the shepard He is! Lord, thank you!)
Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the Lord and turn your back on evil. Then you will gain renewed health and vitality.
Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything your land produces. Then he will fill your barns with grain, and your vats will overflow with the finest wine.’
My child, don’t ignore it when the Lord disciplines you, and don’t be discouraged when he corrects you. For the Lord corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights. (Yes, Lord!)
Happy is the person who finds wisdom and gains understanding. For the profit of wisdom is better than silver, and her wages are better than gold. Wisdom Is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. She offers you life in her right hand, and riches and honor in her left. She will guide you down delightful paths; all her ways are satisfying. Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her; happy are those who hold her tightly. (Wow!!! Lord, help us hold wisdom tightly.)
By wisdom the Lord founded the earth; by understanding he established the heavens. By his knowledge the deep fountains of the earth burst forth, and the clouds poured down rain. (Yes, Lord!)
My child, don’t lose sight of good planning and insight. Hang on to them, for they fill you with life and bring you honor and respect. They keep you safe on your way and keep your feet from stumbling. You can lie down without fear and enjoy pleasant dreams. You need not be afraid of disaster or the destruction that comes upon the wicked, for the Lord is your security. He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap. (This is interesting. Solomon is pointing out that we are responsible for these benefits God is providing to us. He’s saying that the wise person will engage in good planning and insight, which will cause them to have peace, security, honor and respect. Thank you, Lord!)
Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it’s in your power to help them. If you can help your neighbor now, don’t say, “Come back tomorrow, and then I’ll help you.”
Do not plot against your neighbors, for they trust you. Don’t make accusations against someone who hasn’t wronged you.
Do not envy violent people; don’t copy their ways. Such wicked people are an abomination to the Lord, but he offers his friendship to the godly.
The curse of the Lord is on the house of the wicked, but his blessing is on the home of the upright.
The Lord mocks at mockers, but he shows favor to the humble.
The wise inherit honor, but fools are put to shame! (Proverbs 3) (Wow…this is good stuff! So many nuggets.)
Lord, thank you for your Word today! Thank you for sharing your wisdom, things we can do right now…today! Lord, you are amazing! Help us embrace wisdom and your Word. Thank you for helping us recognize that we have to take action, that simply believing in you is not enough. Our future largely depends on what we do (our actions) with the knowledge you are giving us. Lord, we love you!
May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26)
….AND MAY WE ALL PRACTICE THIS WITH ONE ANOTHER.
コメント