Proverbs
What the book of Psalms is to prayer and
devotional life, the book of Proverbs is to everyday life. Proverbs gives
practical suggestions for effective living. This book is not just a collection
of homey sayings; it contains deep spiritual insights drawn from experience. A
proverb is a short, wise, easy-to-learn saying that calls a person to actions.
It doesn't argue about basic spiritual and moral beliefs; it assumes we already
hold them. The book of Proverbs fouses on God -- his character, works, and
blessings -- and it tells how we can live in close relationship to
him.
Trust in the Lord with all your
heart
and lean not on your own
understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge
him,
and he will make your paths
straight.
Proverb 3:5, 6
Footnote:
Leaning has the sense of putting your whole
weight on something, resting on and trusting in that person or thing. When we
have an important decision to make, we sometimes feel that we can't trust anyone
-- not even God. But God knows what is best for us. He is a better judge of
what we want than even we are! We must trust him completely in every choice we
make. We should not omit careful thinking or belittle our God-given ability to
reason; but we should not trust our own ideas to the exclusion of all others. We
must not be wise in our own eyes. We should always be willing to listen to and
be corrected by God's Word and wise counselors. Bring your decisions to God in
prayer; use the Bible as your guide; and then follow God's leading. He will
make your paths straight by both guiding and protecting you.
To receive God's guidance, said Solomon, we
must acknowledge God in all our ways. This means turning every area of life
over to him. About a thousand years later, Jesus emphasized this same truth
(Matthew 6:33). Look at your values and priorities. What is important to you?
In what areas have you not acknowledged him? What is his advice? In many areas
of your life you may already acknowledge God, but it is in the areas where you
attempt to restrict or ignore his influence that will cause you grief. Make him
a vital part of everything you do; then he will guide you because you will be
working to accomplish his purposes.
Keep reading -- 213 days left!
All footnotes taken from the Life Application Study Bible, NIV
No comments:
Post a Comment