Proverbs 4:10-27
Yesterday, the benefits of having wisdom and insight caught my attention. But today, my thoughts were drawn to using the wisdom we have and then maintaining it through right living.
So how do we maintain wisdom and righteous living according to Proverbs 4? How can we accomplish and put into practice the instructions found in verses 23-27? Tami W.
Tami,
I think the key to being able to do what we're told to do in vs 23-27 is found in verse 20: "My son, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings." In our flesh we really can't do any of the things that we're asked to do in vs 23-27. We are powerless to do those actions on our own. However, with God's word constantly and consistently in our hearts and minds we can do those things. I know saying "Read the Bible" sounds so simple, but it is very powerful. Unfortunately, another testimony to how powerful simply reading the word is, is that so few people do it! Satan works diligently at attempting to keep God's people and others from reading His word. The research done by Back to the Bible demonstrates the power of simply reading God's word.
I think the focus is two pronged. First, KNOWING the right thing. Adhering to God's teaching, which can only be done by taking the time to know Him and what He desires for us. But the second is important as well. Being constantly aware that there are TWO paths...one that leads to right living and one that leads away. The writer cautions multiple times: "Do not enter the path of the wicked. Do not walk on it. Avoid it. Turn away from it. Walk on." I get this picture in my head of all these signs posted--DANGER! WARNING! STOP! DO NOT PROCEED!
The other thing that I find interesting is that even though the right path is clearly marked, lit up like a freeway in front of us, light, straight, and smooth, we, too often, choose the path that is dark and dangerous.
The writer says, 'Ponder the path'. I like that phrase. When I am driving or even walking, it is rare for me to 'ponder the path', to examine it for its worthiness, to think beyond just 'getting there'. God wants us to reflect on the path on which we step. Where are we going? Is it good? Is it safe? Am I walking with Him or am I on a path that is taking me in the opposite direction?