"Teach us to number our days carefully so that we may develop wisdom in our hearts" (Psalm 90:12, HCSB).
These words come from a psalm of Moses. It was probably written after he became the leader of Israel which means he was somewhere between 80 and 120 years of age. Most people would assume at that point in life you are a wise as you're going to get. Not Moses. He was committed to the process of learning.
Moses had to learn some lessons the hard way, and after that he was more inclined to listen. Maybe this prayer was written after Moses learned he would not enter the Promise Land because of his disobedience. Maybe the rebuke of the Lord left him feeling his foolishness.
Maybe he uttered this prayer while looking out over a vast multitude, freshly rescued through the sea. Maybe he feared the awesome responsibility of leading the people.
Whatever Moses' motivation, one thing is certain. Moses desired to live his life wisely. What would you do if you knew you were going to die in six months? Most of us would want to make the most of that time. To paraphrase Moses, "Lord, remind me of my mortality and impending judgment, so I'll do the right kind of things.
If you don't know it, your days are numbered. Only God knows the full count of them. One day, possibly soon, you will stand before him and give an account of how you lived. I hope you will be able to stand before him with a wise heart.
Showing posts with label Wisdom. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Wisdom. Show all posts
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
A Mark of Good Judgment
"The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, the ears of the wise seek it" (Prov. 18:15, NIV).
The heart was the center of thinking and decisions making. The discerning person, or individual of good judgment, acquires (learns over time) knowledge. Knowledge is intellectual understanding. It is comprehension of what truly is. The ears of the wise seek knowledge. Those who are truly wise want to learn.
Why does Solomon state such an obvious truth? The wise have knowledge seems like such a, "Well, Duh!" statement. Of course, the wise have knowledge. What is your point, Solomon?
Here are some truths we can glean from Solomon's insight:
1. Knowledge is possible, that is, there is a truth to be known.
2. The reason so few "know" it is because so few seek it.
3. Knowing doesn't come without effort.
4. Wise people are always ready to learn.
5. Wise people measure or test everything they learn against the standard of truth.
6. Solomon is exposing a pattern to imitate.
7. The wise are storehouse of sound advise.
8. We should surround ourselves with the wise.
9. We should seek to become wise.
Open your ears to the voice of truth, and you will acquire knowledge. May your heart grown in discernment as you seek knowledge.
The heart was the center of thinking and decisions making. The discerning person, or individual of good judgment, acquires (learns over time) knowledge. Knowledge is intellectual understanding. It is comprehension of what truly is. The ears of the wise seek knowledge. Those who are truly wise want to learn.
Why does Solomon state such an obvious truth? The wise have knowledge seems like such a, "Well, Duh!" statement. Of course, the wise have knowledge. What is your point, Solomon?
Here are some truths we can glean from Solomon's insight:
1. Knowledge is possible, that is, there is a truth to be known.
2. The reason so few "know" it is because so few seek it.
3. Knowing doesn't come without effort.
4. Wise people are always ready to learn.
5. Wise people measure or test everything they learn against the standard of truth.
6. Solomon is exposing a pattern to imitate.
7. The wise are storehouse of sound advise.
8. We should surround ourselves with the wise.
9. We should seek to become wise.
Open your ears to the voice of truth, and you will acquire knowledge. May your heart grown in discernment as you seek knowledge.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Words to the Wise
Incline your ear,
and hear the words of the wise,
and apply your heart to my knowledge,
for it will be pleasant if you keep them with you,
if all of them are ready on your lips.
Proverbs 22:17-18
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Pay Attention to Wisdom
"My son, pay attention to my wisdom; listen closely to my understanding so that you may maintain discretion and your lips safeguard knowledge" (Prov. 5:1-2, HCSB).
Although wisdom is a highly valuable commodity, it is rarely sought after today. Gold may be more expensive and easier to attain, but it is much less valuable. Solomon urges his "son" to take heed to his words. They are words that aid in the navigation of life. But they are more, they are life itself.
Wisdom, in the biblical sense, is the guide to walking in a way that pleases God. Being wise is part science, part art, part hard work, and all of faith. Wisdom knows that the guidelines enable freedom, when foolishness sees them as a loss of freedom. Wisdom knows that our knowledge is finite, and it rests in the infinite wisdom of God.
The human heart is like a garden. Left alone, it will bear little fruit because it quickly becomes overrun with weeds. An undisciplined heart is a jungle of confusing motives and jumbled passions. This overgrowth endangers the fruit the Word can produce.
We must be diligent in the garden of our hearts--carefully weeding out all selfish ambition, pride, malice, etc. By faith, we must labor diligently to put the Word into practice in our lives. Solomon says, "pay attention," and "listen closely." These things we must do, but he is not calling us to the mere use of our ears. No, he is calling us to listen as one who will be quick to respond. We listen in order to make certain that our actions will be the very ones our teacher would have us to do.
This kind of listen is fitting for followers of Christ, because in order to be a follower one must first believe and then obey Christ's commands. Without obedience there is no hope of salvation. Some might object, "Don't you mean, 'Without faith there is no hope of salvation?'". No, I mean what James meant. Faith that doesn't produce obedience is not saving faith. And true obedience to Jesus will always be driven by faith.
If we pursue wisdom, or to put it as Jesus did: if we will build our life upon the teachings of Jesus, then we will learn discretion and our lips will safeguard knowledge. That is to say, we will know how to please God and be able to teach others to do the same.
Are you paying attention to the wise? Do you listen carefully to the Word of God with an obedient heart? Do you consider yourself wise? Do others? If you feel like you lack wisdom, keep reading the Bible and combining what you read with faithful obedience.
Although wisdom is a highly valuable commodity, it is rarely sought after today. Gold may be more expensive and easier to attain, but it is much less valuable. Solomon urges his "son" to take heed to his words. They are words that aid in the navigation of life. But they are more, they are life itself.
Wisdom, in the biblical sense, is the guide to walking in a way that pleases God. Being wise is part science, part art, part hard work, and all of faith. Wisdom knows that the guidelines enable freedom, when foolishness sees them as a loss of freedom. Wisdom knows that our knowledge is finite, and it rests in the infinite wisdom of God.
The human heart is like a garden. Left alone, it will bear little fruit because it quickly becomes overrun with weeds. An undisciplined heart is a jungle of confusing motives and jumbled passions. This overgrowth endangers the fruit the Word can produce.
We must be diligent in the garden of our hearts--carefully weeding out all selfish ambition, pride, malice, etc. By faith, we must labor diligently to put the Word into practice in our lives. Solomon says, "pay attention," and "listen closely." These things we must do, but he is not calling us to the mere use of our ears. No, he is calling us to listen as one who will be quick to respond. We listen in order to make certain that our actions will be the very ones our teacher would have us to do.
This kind of listen is fitting for followers of Christ, because in order to be a follower one must first believe and then obey Christ's commands. Without obedience there is no hope of salvation. Some might object, "Don't you mean, 'Without faith there is no hope of salvation?'". No, I mean what James meant. Faith that doesn't produce obedience is not saving faith. And true obedience to Jesus will always be driven by faith.
If we pursue wisdom, or to put it as Jesus did: if we will build our life upon the teachings of Jesus, then we will learn discretion and our lips will safeguard knowledge. That is to say, we will know how to please God and be able to teach others to do the same.
Are you paying attention to the wise? Do you listen carefully to the Word of God with an obedient heart? Do you consider yourself wise? Do others? If you feel like you lack wisdom, keep reading the Bible and combining what you read with faithful obedience.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Warning: Knowledge Increases Sorrow
"For in much wisdom is much vexation, and he who increases knowledge increases sorrow" (Ecc. 1:18, ESV).
The pursuit of wisdom and knowledge can never be ends in themselves. It is not sufficient to "be wise" or to "have knowledge." These sorts of pursuits leave one puffed up with pride. With knowledge comes the expectation of correct response. Or to quote Uncle Ben, from Spider-Man, "With great power comes great responsibility."
Solomon initially pursued wisdom with the end of rightly leading God's people fixed in his sight. However, after his wisdom became known, he began trying to increase his wisdom for the sake of having wisdom. His focus shifted from glorifying God to glorifying himself.
His knowledge of the proper response to God, burdened him with guilt. Solomon's disobedience was costly, not only to himself, but his family and his nation. The more you know, the more you have reason to grieve. Knowledge burdens the learner with expectations, but the pursuit of knowledge often floods the mind with contradictory information that must be sorted out, and which can blind you to the truth.
That is not to say that one should never study or never seek to learn. I believe Solomon is saying that we need to know why we are learning (for God's glory), how it will help us to serve him, and why study should be approached with great care. Failure to discern between truth and opinion disguised as "fact," can be very destructive.
Let's say that you don't know that starving children are dying in Karzy*. One day you come upon a startling statistic that says 65% of all the children in Karzy will die of malnutrition before they reach the age of three. You check all the references and discover that the statistic is true. Now you have knowledge that increases your sorrow.
There are at least two ways it increases your sorrow. First, you are made aware of the fact that children are starving to death in a foreign land. Unless you're some kind of heartless monster, that fact should disturb you in some way. Second, you now have the responsibility to do something. Prior to discovering the fact you were blissful in your ignorance, and you had no moral duty. However, upon learning about the situation you become morally responsible, before God, to help the starving children.
Knowledge is power, and power brings responsibility. If we are to live in a way that please our King, we will continue to learn, and act upon what we learn. Learning for any other purpose, will only weary the learner.
*Karzy is a fictional place, however starving children are a reality in our world.
The pursuit of wisdom and knowledge can never be ends in themselves. It is not sufficient to "be wise" or to "have knowledge." These sorts of pursuits leave one puffed up with pride. With knowledge comes the expectation of correct response. Or to quote Uncle Ben, from Spider-Man, "With great power comes great responsibility."
Solomon initially pursued wisdom with the end of rightly leading God's people fixed in his sight. However, after his wisdom became known, he began trying to increase his wisdom for the sake of having wisdom. His focus shifted from glorifying God to glorifying himself.
His knowledge of the proper response to God, burdened him with guilt. Solomon's disobedience was costly, not only to himself, but his family and his nation. The more you know, the more you have reason to grieve. Knowledge burdens the learner with expectations, but the pursuit of knowledge often floods the mind with contradictory information that must be sorted out, and which can blind you to the truth.
That is not to say that one should never study or never seek to learn. I believe Solomon is saying that we need to know why we are learning (for God's glory), how it will help us to serve him, and why study should be approached with great care. Failure to discern between truth and opinion disguised as "fact," can be very destructive.
Let's say that you don't know that starving children are dying in Karzy*. One day you come upon a startling statistic that says 65% of all the children in Karzy will die of malnutrition before they reach the age of three. You check all the references and discover that the statistic is true. Now you have knowledge that increases your sorrow.
There are at least two ways it increases your sorrow. First, you are made aware of the fact that children are starving to death in a foreign land. Unless you're some kind of heartless monster, that fact should disturb you in some way. Second, you now have the responsibility to do something. Prior to discovering the fact you were blissful in your ignorance, and you had no moral duty. However, upon learning about the situation you become morally responsible, before God, to help the starving children.
Knowledge is power, and power brings responsibility. If we are to live in a way that please our King, we will continue to learn, and act upon what we learn. Learning for any other purpose, will only weary the learner.
*Karzy is a fictional place, however starving children are a reality in our world.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
A Word to the Wise
"There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan
that can succeed against
the LORD."
Proverbs 21:30, NIV
Friday, August 13, 2010
Where to Begin
Some days it is difficult to know where to begin. You might want to discuss the many ways in which God has blessed you, or you might want to air the grievances of your heart. Maybe you want to sit out under the stars and watch the infinite vastness swirl around you. Maybe you want to to rise early and watch the sun burst forth arrayed in splendor.
Some days you might want to stay under the covers, and hope the world doesn't find you. Other days, you march right outside and grab the bull by the horns. Your time might be well organized and utilized to the fullest possible potential. Then again, maybe your time slips through your fingers like grands of sand, and some days dozens of opportunities are lost.
Knowing where to begin is as much an art as it is a skill. Like an art, there is a certain "feel" to it. Like a skill, it can be built upon. When it comes to life, knowing where to begin is essential.
A life that pursues God, begins with the fear of the Lord. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Fearing the Lord has more to do with reverence than terror, but there is still an element of terror present. It is a good thing if our anxiety over our sins drives us to repentance. However, if a dread falls upon us that makes it impossible for us to approach God in search of forgiveness, it is bad.
Fear of the Lord is birthed in us by the grace of God. Grace teaches our heart to fear, then it stills that fear within us. Once grace has stirred the slumbering giant of the fallen conscience, it then moves to enable the heart to believe. The Spirit of God is the agent that works this grace within our hearts. Therefore, his presence is a reminder of God's gracious intentions toward us. God's intentions never fall short of their goal.
Having this reality in mind, we must approach those situations where we are uncertain about our course of action with confidence in the love of the Lord. He loves us even when we don't know it. He has a plan for us even when we aren't sure of it. So, the next time you're tempted to throw the covers over your head (unless your sick), ask the Lord to help you. Ask him to show you what needs to be done, and for the strength to do it.
How good are you at waiting on the Lord? Do you always know where to begin? How do you face difficult days?
Some days you might want to stay under the covers, and hope the world doesn't find you. Other days, you march right outside and grab the bull by the horns. Your time might be well organized and utilized to the fullest possible potential. Then again, maybe your time slips through your fingers like grands of sand, and some days dozens of opportunities are lost.
Knowing where to begin is as much an art as it is a skill. Like an art, there is a certain "feel" to it. Like a skill, it can be built upon. When it comes to life, knowing where to begin is essential.
A life that pursues God, begins with the fear of the Lord. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Fearing the Lord has more to do with reverence than terror, but there is still an element of terror present. It is a good thing if our anxiety over our sins drives us to repentance. However, if a dread falls upon us that makes it impossible for us to approach God in search of forgiveness, it is bad.
Fear of the Lord is birthed in us by the grace of God. Grace teaches our heart to fear, then it stills that fear within us. Once grace has stirred the slumbering giant of the fallen conscience, it then moves to enable the heart to believe. The Spirit of God is the agent that works this grace within our hearts. Therefore, his presence is a reminder of God's gracious intentions toward us. God's intentions never fall short of their goal.
Having this reality in mind, we must approach those situations where we are uncertain about our course of action with confidence in the love of the Lord. He loves us even when we don't know it. He has a plan for us even when we aren't sure of it. So, the next time you're tempted to throw the covers over your head (unless your sick), ask the Lord to help you. Ask him to show you what needs to be done, and for the strength to do it.
How good are you at waiting on the Lord? Do you always know where to begin? How do you face difficult days?
A Word to the Wise
"Leave the presence of a fool,
for there you do not meet words of knowledge.
The wisdom of the prudent is to discern his way,
but the folly of fools is deceiving."
Proverbs 14:7-8
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
A Worthy Thought
The fear of the LORD
is
the beginning of knowledge;
fools despise
wisdom and instruction.
Proverbs 1:7, ESV
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Worthy of Thought
"The light of the eyes rejoices the heart, and good news refreshes the bones. The ear that listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise" (Prov. 15:30-31, ESV).
Father in Heaven,
grant me
eyes that see and
ears that hear,
that I may dwell in wisdom
for your glory.
Amen.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Wise Teaching at T4G
"The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death" (Prov. 13:14, ESV).
I have the privilege of being at the 2010 Together for the Gospel (T4G) conference this week. Today, I have heard powerful messages from Mark Dever, R. C. Sproul, and Albert Mohler. Each one, in his own way, has faithfully reminded us (attendees) to rightly understand and teach the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Time and again, we have heard the speakers say the gospel is about Jesus and his work. They have continually exhorted us to believe and preach/teach the Scriptures. Their messages affirm and encourage gospel laborers who are pursuing the glory of God.
Because of these reasons, their words are fountains of life. This year the theme for the T4G conference is "The Unadjusted Gospel." So far the sessions have demonstrated ways in which individuals and churches make adjustments to the gospel. Each speaker has sounded a clear call for their hearers to make certain that they rightly understand the gospel, and in turn rightly teach it.
In light of Paul's admonition in Galatians 1:6-9, the call to biblical fidelity and gospel clarity is of the utmost importance. If we preach an adjusted gospel, we are to be condemned, because we condemn our hearers. If faith comes by hearing the message of Christ (and it does), then preaching something other than the message of Christ cannot generate faith in the hearer.
I am looking forward to tomorrow when I will hear teaching from more wise men, and drink deeply from their fountains of life. I pray that their words will turn back those who are stumbling toward error. I pray that through this time I will experience a renewed heart for gospel ministry. I also pray that God would be glorified through this conference.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
A Word to the Wise
My son, eat honey, for it is good,
and the drippings of the honeycomb
are sweet to the taste.
Know that wisdom is such to your soul;
if you find it,
there will be a future,
and your hope will not be cut off.
Proverbs 24:13-14
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Revere the Word
"Whoever despises the the word brings destruction on himself, but he who reveres the commandment will be rewarded" (Prov. 13:13, ESV).
This proverb is about one's attitude toward the revealed word of God. Solomon offers a warning through this proverb, one that is often ignored because of a misconception on our parts. We often use the images we associate with such terms to help us interpret them when we read them in the Scripture. These images can help us to understand what it means to despise something, but they may mislead us also.
When I think of someone despising something, I imagine them seeking to destroy it. Sometimes I envision the person publicly protesting the thing (or person) they despise. Images from news casts, commercials, television shows, movies, and books flood my mind. Most of these images have violent content or passionate emotional responses attached to them. They lead us to assume that every mention of the word, despise (or hate), carries with it strong emotions that lead to public outcry or militant resistance, but that is not always the case.
When Solomon says, "Whoever despises the word," he is not only talking those who seek its destruction, or publicly protest it. Many people who despise the Word do so without every trying to destroy it, and never utter a complaint against it. Many of them poses a copy of the Bible and display it with great pride. They may even speak highly of its contents, characters, and themes. They may study it, memorize it, and quote it with ease.
Yet, in all of their affirmation one thing is missing: obedience. Even in the absence of negative emotions, one can despise something. Let's say I am driving down a road and encounter a sign warning me of a collapsed bridge ahead. Let's say I shrug it off, and drive off a cliff. It can still be said that I despised the sign. Failure to heed the warning is the same as defying the warning. Failure to respond in obedient faith to the Word is the same as despising the Word.
Conversely, revering the commandment means obeying it. Where there is no obedience, there is no reverence. We can't really say we understand the Word, if we are not doing what it says. Obedience brings reward; disobedience brings destruction. Therefore, we must choose the course we will follow: reverent obedience to the Word or rebellious disobedience to it. It doesn't matter if rebellion is red hot defiance or cool apathy. God still views it as despising his Word, and it leads to destruction. Revering the word leads to reward.
This proverb is about one's attitude toward the revealed word of God. Solomon offers a warning through this proverb, one that is often ignored because of a misconception on our parts. We often use the images we associate with such terms to help us interpret them when we read them in the Scripture. These images can help us to understand what it means to despise something, but they may mislead us also.
When I think of someone despising something, I imagine them seeking to destroy it. Sometimes I envision the person publicly protesting the thing (or person) they despise. Images from news casts, commercials, television shows, movies, and books flood my mind. Most of these images have violent content or passionate emotional responses attached to them. They lead us to assume that every mention of the word, despise (or hate), carries with it strong emotions that lead to public outcry or militant resistance, but that is not always the case.
When Solomon says, "Whoever despises the word," he is not only talking those who seek its destruction, or publicly protest it. Many people who despise the Word do so without every trying to destroy it, and never utter a complaint against it. Many of them poses a copy of the Bible and display it with great pride. They may even speak highly of its contents, characters, and themes. They may study it, memorize it, and quote it with ease.
Yet, in all of their affirmation one thing is missing: obedience. Even in the absence of negative emotions, one can despise something. Let's say I am driving down a road and encounter a sign warning me of a collapsed bridge ahead. Let's say I shrug it off, and drive off a cliff. It can still be said that I despised the sign. Failure to heed the warning is the same as defying the warning. Failure to respond in obedient faith to the Word is the same as despising the Word.
Conversely, revering the commandment means obeying it. Where there is no obedience, there is no reverence. We can't really say we understand the Word, if we are not doing what it says. Obedience brings reward; disobedience brings destruction. Therefore, we must choose the course we will follow: reverent obedience to the Word or rebellious disobedience to it. It doesn't matter if rebellion is red hot defiance or cool apathy. God still views it as despising his Word, and it leads to destruction. Revering the word leads to reward.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Safety in Wise Counsel
"Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety" (Prov. 11:14, ESV).
The wise surround themselves with other wise people. They find individuals who demonstrate wisdom, and then they continually ask them for perspective. Wisdom can be defined as the ability to live life in manner pleasing to God. It is the art of walking in faithful obedience. This verse reminds us that failure to obtain guidance results in hardship.
It is not merely enough to surround ourselves with wise people. Proximity to the wise does not guarantee that their wisdom will rub off on us. In fact, just being close to the wise does nothing to bring up our wisdom quotient. We need to get inside their heads, and try to see the world the way the see it. We need to imitate their lives. Remember, if they are truly wise, they are living in a way that pleases God.
Solomon is not suggesting that we anchor ourselves to one sage, and drown out all other voice. No, there is more safety in numbers. Multiple counselors offer us the greatest opportunity to widen our perspective, to gather fresh insight, and to find multiple avenues of exploration. Even when our counselors offer differing opinions, we are served by the knowledge that at least two possibilities exist. As we grow in wisdom, differing opinions can sharpen our thinking.
So I encourage you to find godly counselors who exhibit Spirit-filled wisdom. Look for men and women who walk in obedience to the Lord and who are satisfied in him. When you find them begin observing their lives. What are they reading? How do they spend their free time? How do they interact with others? Notice the role Scripture plays in their lives. Ask them probing questions. Bounce your ideas off of them and get their perspective. Look for multiple counselors, but remember that although you may take advice from many, not all will be equally close to you. It is good to remember one more thing: if the wise give you sound advice, its foolish to ignore it.
The wise surround themselves with other wise people. They find individuals who demonstrate wisdom, and then they continually ask them for perspective. Wisdom can be defined as the ability to live life in manner pleasing to God. It is the art of walking in faithful obedience. This verse reminds us that failure to obtain guidance results in hardship.
It is not merely enough to surround ourselves with wise people. Proximity to the wise does not guarantee that their wisdom will rub off on us. In fact, just being close to the wise does nothing to bring up our wisdom quotient. We need to get inside their heads, and try to see the world the way the see it. We need to imitate their lives. Remember, if they are truly wise, they are living in a way that pleases God.
Solomon is not suggesting that we anchor ourselves to one sage, and drown out all other voice. No, there is more safety in numbers. Multiple counselors offer us the greatest opportunity to widen our perspective, to gather fresh insight, and to find multiple avenues of exploration. Even when our counselors offer differing opinions, we are served by the knowledge that at least two possibilities exist. As we grow in wisdom, differing opinions can sharpen our thinking.
So I encourage you to find godly counselors who exhibit Spirit-filled wisdom. Look for men and women who walk in obedience to the Lord and who are satisfied in him. When you find them begin observing their lives. What are they reading? How do they spend their free time? How do they interact with others? Notice the role Scripture plays in their lives. Ask them probing questions. Bounce your ideas off of them and get their perspective. Look for multiple counselors, but remember that although you may take advice from many, not all will be equally close to you. It is good to remember one more thing: if the wise give you sound advice, its foolish to ignore it.
Friday, December 4, 2009
A Call to Heed
"Hear, O sons, a father's instruction, and be attentive, that you may gain insight, for I give you good precepts; do not forsake my teaching" (Prov. 4:1-2) ESV.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Walk This Way
"My son, do not lose sight of these--keep sound wisdom and discretion, and they will be life for your soul and adornment for your neck. Then you will walk on your way securely, and your foot will not stumble. If you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet" (Prov. 3:21-24, ESV).
It is easy to lose sight of sound wisdom and discretion. Sin comes and whispers softly in our ears, "No one will ever find out," or "It feels right go ahead and do it," or "You're not hurting anyone." The lie is so simple, so sweet, so subtle. Its siren song seduces the heart into foolishness and indiscretion. All the while that sin is coaching us to believe our transgression will go unnoticed, it's coaching someone else to snoop in our business. Having set the trap, sin waits for us to take the bait.
If wisdom and discretion are forgotten, destruction is not far behind. Solomon informs the reader that wisdom and discretion sustains and adorns our lives. When people abandon wisdom and discretion their lives begin to go downhill. Often their lives spiral out of control. Sin dogs their every step awaiting to destroy them.
The wise and discrete have their lives adorned with the fruit of righteousness. They are the fragrance of life to those who are living. They have a natural charisma that draws others to them. They speak words of life and offer sound advice. They walk without stumbling. That isn't to say that they don't ever sin. It means that as long as they are walking in obedience the Lord will uphold and protect them.
The urgency in these verses should compel us to listen. They should drive us to focus on maintaining wisdom and discretion in our lives. These verses also imply that this process of setting our sights on wisdom and discretion is to be an ongoing process. We cannot let up or back down, because the instant that we do we will stumble in our way.
There are many who lie down at night and are unable to sleep, because of anxiety. I'm sure somewhere in the world tonight there is a person who is hoping his sin will not become public. He is praying for the first time in a long time, and yearning for mercy. However, ultimate peace cannot be obtained apart from the path of wisdom and discretion, because one must walk, by faith, in the Lord Jesus Christ to truly walk in wisdom and discretion. When we walk with the Lord, we are free to lie down at night and rest. If we have sought to live out our faith in humble obedience during the course of the day, we can rest easy. When we walk this way, we know that the Lord is pleased.
It is easy to lose sight of sound wisdom and discretion. Sin comes and whispers softly in our ears, "No one will ever find out," or "It feels right go ahead and do it," or "You're not hurting anyone." The lie is so simple, so sweet, so subtle. Its siren song seduces the heart into foolishness and indiscretion. All the while that sin is coaching us to believe our transgression will go unnoticed, it's coaching someone else to snoop in our business. Having set the trap, sin waits for us to take the bait.
If wisdom and discretion are forgotten, destruction is not far behind. Solomon informs the reader that wisdom and discretion sustains and adorns our lives. When people abandon wisdom and discretion their lives begin to go downhill. Often their lives spiral out of control. Sin dogs their every step awaiting to destroy them.
The wise and discrete have their lives adorned with the fruit of righteousness. They are the fragrance of life to those who are living. They have a natural charisma that draws others to them. They speak words of life and offer sound advice. They walk without stumbling. That isn't to say that they don't ever sin. It means that as long as they are walking in obedience the Lord will uphold and protect them.
The urgency in these verses should compel us to listen. They should drive us to focus on maintaining wisdom and discretion in our lives. These verses also imply that this process of setting our sights on wisdom and discretion is to be an ongoing process. We cannot let up or back down, because the instant that we do we will stumble in our way.
There are many who lie down at night and are unable to sleep, because of anxiety. I'm sure somewhere in the world tonight there is a person who is hoping his sin will not become public. He is praying for the first time in a long time, and yearning for mercy. However, ultimate peace cannot be obtained apart from the path of wisdom and discretion, because one must walk, by faith, in the Lord Jesus Christ to truly walk in wisdom and discretion. When we walk with the Lord, we are free to lie down at night and rest. If we have sought to live out our faith in humble obedience during the course of the day, we can rest easy. When we walk this way, we know that the Lord is pleased.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Do You Treasure Wisdom?
"My son, if you receive my words and treasure up my commandments with you, making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding; yes, if you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God" (Prov. 2:1-5, ESV).
This passage contains a lot of "ifs." Each "if" reminds us that the outcome is not guaranteed apart from diligent labor and careful study. If we will receive sound instruction and treasure it in our hearts, then we will get understanding. If we force our ears to hear and bend our hearts toward obedience, then we will know God.
God will not permit a half-hearted search to yield great treasure. In fact, the Lord knows we won't search for him at all. He must search for us and place in us a new heart. The new heart the Lord gives, through the gospel, causes us to yearn after him with earnestness. It makes our souls pant for him as for streams of water.
The new heart causes us to hang on his words as a child on the words of their beloved father. We want to search them out, because he reveals himself to us, through his Word. "Abba, Father," is the cry of our hearts as we yearn for his presence.
Thus, the desire he birthed in our hearts, he fulfills with his presence. He invites us to know him, and to be known by him. He invites us, as beloved children, to sit at his feet and learn from him. He says, "My child, incline your ear to your Father, and hear the wisdom he speaks. Seek me and you will find me. I Love you with all my heart, love me, too."
When it comes to knowing God and doing his will, we must approach the task as if we were on the trail of the greatest treasure ever. For that is exactly what we seek--our precious Savior. This pursuit of God is wisdom. Insight into heavenly matters compels us to pursue them no matter what it costs, because we know that a disobedient life would cost us more. Do you treasure wisdom? If so, turn your ear toward Word of your Father, and heed his instruction.
This passage contains a lot of "ifs." Each "if" reminds us that the outcome is not guaranteed apart from diligent labor and careful study. If we will receive sound instruction and treasure it in our hearts, then we will get understanding. If we force our ears to hear and bend our hearts toward obedience, then we will know God.
God will not permit a half-hearted search to yield great treasure. In fact, the Lord knows we won't search for him at all. He must search for us and place in us a new heart. The new heart the Lord gives, through the gospel, causes us to yearn after him with earnestness. It makes our souls pant for him as for streams of water.
The new heart causes us to hang on his words as a child on the words of their beloved father. We want to search them out, because he reveals himself to us, through his Word. "Abba, Father," is the cry of our hearts as we yearn for his presence.
Thus, the desire he birthed in our hearts, he fulfills with his presence. He invites us to know him, and to be known by him. He invites us, as beloved children, to sit at his feet and learn from him. He says, "My child, incline your ear to your Father, and hear the wisdom he speaks. Seek me and you will find me. I Love you with all my heart, love me, too."
When it comes to knowing God and doing his will, we must approach the task as if we were on the trail of the greatest treasure ever. For that is exactly what we seek--our precious Savior. This pursuit of God is wisdom. Insight into heavenly matters compels us to pursue them no matter what it costs, because we know that a disobedient life would cost us more. Do you treasure wisdom? If so, turn your ear toward Word of your Father, and heed his instruction.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Don't Lose the Crown
"An excellent wife is the crown of her husband, but she who brings shame is like rottenness in his bones" (Prov. 12:4, ESV).The book of Proverbs ends by answering the question, "An excellent wife who can find?" (see Prov. 31:10-31). I find this to be an interesting fact due to the rather lengthy introduction (Prov. 1-9), which informs the readers that the books goal is to allow them "to know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity; to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the youth" (Prov. 1:2-4). The book fleshes out the practical implications of walking humbly with God in everyday life, so it is no surprise that relationships in general, and marriage, specifically, are addressed.
Heterosexual marriage was designed to be the normal pattern for humanity. Although, there have always been individuals that were destined for singleness, or celibacy. As Jesus responded to the statement that it is better not to marry, "Not everyone can receive this saying, but only those to whom it is given. For there are eunuchs who have been so from birth, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Let one who is able to receive this receive it" (Matt. 19:10-12, ESV).
Paul, who was apparently a eunuch for the sake of the kingdom, said, "I wish that all were as I myself am. But each has his own gift from God, one of one kind and one of another. To the unmarried and the widows I say that it is good for them to remain single as I am. But if they cannot exercise self-control, they should marry. For it is better to marry than to be aflame with passion" (1 Cor. 7:7-9). Paul's reason for advocating celibacy is simple: a person who is married cannot, in good conscience, devote all of their energy to the Lord (see 1 Cor. 7:32-35). However, Paul readily admits that not everyone can be celibate. It is better to be married (and practicing proper conjugal rights, see 1 Cor. 7:1-5), than to commit sexual immorality.
I say all of this for a purpose. While marriage is the norm, singleness is not abnormal. It is perfectly acceptable for a person who is single, and does not struggle with sexual desire, to remain single. However, those who struggle continually with sexual temptation are most likely not called to celibacy. But, they aren't called to make haste either.
Apart from faith in Christ, the choice of one's spouse is one of the most important decisions a person can make. The choice shouldn't be made on the outward appearances, because these will eventually fade. After all, "Like a gold ring in a pig's snout is a beautiful woman without discretion" (Prov. 11:22, ESV). The choice of one's spouse, especially for believers, should be based on pleasing the Lord. It is said, "He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord" (Prov. 18:22, ESV). Concerning the excellent wife Proverbs concludes, "Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised" (Prov. 31:30, ESV).
But what happens if a person chooses foolishly? Proverbs warns, "It is better to live a corner of the housetop than in a house shared with a quarrelsome wife," (Prov. 21:9, 25:24); and "It is better to live in a desert land than with a quarrelsome and fretful woman," (Prov. 21:9); and "A continual dripping on a rainy day and a quarrelsome wife are alike," (Prov. 27:15). But even more importantly, marrying the "wrong" person is sin. Paul warns against being "unequally yoked" with non-believers, a principle that most certainly applies to marriage (2 Cor. 6:14). Of course, this principle applies to those going into a situation, not those who are already in a situation. Paul clearly teaches that a believer who is already married to an unbeliever must stay so long as the unbeliever consents (see 1 Cor. 7:10-16).
A believer who is single should never go into a situation assuming that their non-believing companion will come to Christ, because they are dating. It is more likely that the believer will be drawn away from obedience, by the non-believer. And it goes deeper than asking the questions: "Do you believe in Jesus?" and "Where do you go to church?". We have to hold up their life to the light of Scripture and say, "This is what the Bible says a Christian should look like. Is this what I see in this person's life?" If a person answers, "no," to that question, then we need he or she needs to move on.
These things are easy for me to say, because I have been crowned with an excellent wife. She is loving and supportive. She believes in me and encourages me. She is my best friend and my lover. She is a wise counselor and good listener. She is beautiful both inside and out. We share a passion for the glory of the Lord.
I understand the dilemma that many singles face. Before I came to know Christ, the world's opinions of meaning shaped my life. I felt lonely and isolated. I wanted someone who could "complete" me. Something was better than nothing. Even as a new believer, these opinions drove me. I continued to feed my flesh, and allowed it to drive me in a relentless pursuit of "fulfillment."
As I grew in Christ, by studying his Word, I began to see that only Jesus could complete me. That gnawing, nagging, gaping hole of desire, could only be truly satisfied by Christ. My life could be radically different than it is had the Lord not changed my course. I do not mean that it has come without difficulty. The flesh is still flesh, even though a man resides within it. Everyday the battle rages. Everyday I have to crucify the flesh continually, and put death its desires. But, I have help. Both the Lord and the wife he has given me help me to carry on.
If you have a spouse who loves the Lord and loves you, be grateful. If you have a spouse that loves you, but doesn't love the Lord, be prayerful. If you don't have spouse, and you love the Lord, be careful. The decision you make will have a greater impact on you than you can imagine. With 700 wives and 300 concubines, Solomon knew a thing or two about marriage (although he didn't apparently know how to say, "no," to his desires). He offers Spirit-inspired warnings against foolish relationships. Life is too important, and too short, to spend it with the wrong person.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Pursuing Wisdom
"Incline your ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply your heart to my knowledge, for it will be pleasant if you keep them within you, if all of them are ready on your lips" (Prov. 22:17-18).Solomon is urging he readers to pay attention to the wise sayings within the book. One of the purposes of the book of Proverbs is to teach the unlearned in skilled living. How does one come to walk in wisdom? One learns by listening to and imitating the wise. If we are to become wise, we must be guided by the wise.
Solomon informs that reader that they need to incline their ear. It is a picture of one honing in on what is being said. They are leaning in the direction of the speaker, straining to hear what is said. It is an image of attentiveness. They incline their ears so that they may hear the words of the wise. To "hear" the words of the wise, means more than allowing the words to move the eardrums. It means they are to pay attention to those words. Solomon drives the point home by telling them to "apply your heart" to his knowledge. They are give themselves over to the pursuit of understanding all the teacher has spoken, for his words are life.
Diligent study comes with the promise: "it will be pleasant if you keep them within you, if all of them are ready on your lips" (Prov. 22:18). Things are pleasant in the sense that the wise avoid many foolish situations that would otherwise lead them to hardship. The promise of pleasantness is not a promise of unending wealth and health. The promise means that by choosing wisdom, they will have confidence in their decisions no matter what the outcome, because they have placed themselves into the care of their Lord, who is a strong tower.
As we come to faith in Christ, we are called to walk in wisdom. That is, we are called to lived as disciples skilled at pleasing our Lord. If we have inclined our ear to hear his words and have applied our hearts to his knowledge, then it will be pleasant as we keep them and have them ready on our lips. As we fill our hearts with the Word of Christ, that Word transforms our heart. It teaches us how to walk in the way that pleases him. As we grow in knowledge of our Lord and Savior, we grow in wisdom. As we walk in obedience, we walk in wisdom. It is a pleasant journey, not because their is no difficulty, but because we know that as we apply his teaching to our lives, Christ is pleased with us, and enables us to continue on the journey.
Monday, June 15, 2009
A Soft Answer
"A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger" (Prov. 15:1).
The fastest way to turn a disagreement into an argument is by saying something rash and hurtful. Solomon states here that it is better to greet an angry response with "soft" words. This may sound easy, but it really takes a lot of discipline. When someone is standing in your face, telling you how worthless you are, saying things about your family, or threatening to beat you to a pulp, it isn't always easy to smile and say something nice.
Our natural tendency is to defend ourselves and the reputations of our loved ones. We want to fight fire with fire. Solomon warns that when we fight fire with fire, we get burned. We have to be ready for confrontation and choose our words wisely. Sometimes, it is best to say nothing at all. Other times, we might say something simple like, "I'm sorry you feel that way." Reflecting God's character goes against the old nature. When we meet anger with love, Christ's life is demonstrated through us.
We need to remember, however, that our answers won't always turn away wrath, no matter how gentle they are. Some anger is so deeply rooted in a person's heart, that they are unmoved by the kindness of others. Also, there will be times when people's anger toward us reflects their underlying hatred for God. Thus, the more we reflect him, the angrier they will get. No matter the response, wisdom dictates that we prepare our hearts to respond in Christ centered gentleness.
The fastest way to turn a disagreement into an argument is by saying something rash and hurtful. Solomon states here that it is better to greet an angry response with "soft" words. This may sound easy, but it really takes a lot of discipline. When someone is standing in your face, telling you how worthless you are, saying things about your family, or threatening to beat you to a pulp, it isn't always easy to smile and say something nice.
Our natural tendency is to defend ourselves and the reputations of our loved ones. We want to fight fire with fire. Solomon warns that when we fight fire with fire, we get burned. We have to be ready for confrontation and choose our words wisely. Sometimes, it is best to say nothing at all. Other times, we might say something simple like, "I'm sorry you feel that way." Reflecting God's character goes against the old nature. When we meet anger with love, Christ's life is demonstrated through us.
We need to remember, however, that our answers won't always turn away wrath, no matter how gentle they are. Some anger is so deeply rooted in a person's heart, that they are unmoved by the kindness of others. Also, there will be times when people's anger toward us reflects their underlying hatred for God. Thus, the more we reflect him, the angrier they will get. No matter the response, wisdom dictates that we prepare our hearts to respond in Christ centered gentleness.
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