Skip to main content

Featured

Posted by

What I Learned in my First Year: Prioritize Bible over Talking Points

“Because they hated knowledge and did not choose the fear of the Lord,  would have none of my counsel and despised all my reproof, therefore they shall eat the fruit of their way, and have their fill of their own devices” (Proverbs 1:29–31). “If your people won’t listen to the Bible,  they won’t listen to you.” —Anonymous  I’ve served in varying ministry capacities for a while now. It’s never been in the leading seat though. I’ve seen this play out from afar, watching my leaders navigate through peril and difficulty. Some were like seasoned sailors navigating stormy waters. Some capsized. Still others chugged along trying to get to greater health, greater strength, a more committed holiness, yet still a ways off. Of the healthier “captains” that I’ve served under at the healthier churches, they prioritized Scripture as their charted course and Jesus’ fame as their great North Star. I’ve sought to do that in my first year. Not perfectly executed, of course. First years are...
Post a Comment
Read more
Labels
Posted by

Proverb of the Day: 8/3/2024

HEAR Journal


Highlight: Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace (Proverbs 3:17).


Explain: Solomon waxes eloquently about the promised serenity found in her throughout chapter 3 (see Kidner’s Proverbs); he expands upon the many gifts belonging to Wisdom’s way just after 3:15. What are they though?


Remember again that proverbs are not promises, but principles. The way to kindness (דַרְכֵי־נֹ֑עַם) and ways of prosperity (וְֽכָל־נְתִ֖יבוֹתֶ֣יהָ שָׁלֽוֹם) belong entirely to Her. That means peace and kindness will only be found as we yield to, seek, implement, be corrected by, and walk in wisdom. Presumably because of Wisdom’s work in the life of a person! People are not kind to those who are tyrants. Fearful of, yes. Kind though, not so much. Presumably peace won’t come for the criminal, for the lazy, the selfish. Easy may come for a short time, sure. Not shalom. 


Apply: This is a challenge to not take any substitutes. Shortcuts through ease and fear do not bring about peace and kindness to one’s heart and life. This is a call to follow Wisdom’s path. Specifically, not being wise in our own eyes (3:7). Seeking Wisdom from the Spirit, other trusted counselors, while being willing to receive is the way forward.


Respond: Father, I long for the goods of wisdom. Make me crave wisdom more though.

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular Posts