June 13, 2023 - Proverbs 21-23

Some thoughts from Proverbs this morning. Solomon tells us, “The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will” (21:1). We should not take from this statement that we ought to be indifferent to matters of governance or about those who govern, whether in the political or denominational realms. We do, however, come away with this great encouragement, i.e., that our God will always have his way in the things of this world.

The tongue, again!!! “Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble” (21:23). And, then, there is this word concerning humility: “The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life” (22:4). The tongue and humility, two topics that really go hand in hand, don’t they? With uttermost confidence in our positions we unleash our tongues against others, knowing, just knowing, that all truth lies with us. With dripping sarcasm, Job answered Zophar, “No doubt you are the people, and wisdom will die with you” (Job 12:2). We must never take the position that truth is relative; that which is true is simply true. The problem with Job’s “friends” is that they were convinced that all truth resided with them. No humility there at all, huh? (Sarcasm in case anyone missed it. 😊) Only God knows all things. Only God has perfect wisdom. Only God always makes the right decision. It’s good that we remember this even as we pursue righteousness and right understanding.

A good financial word from Solomon: “Be not one of those who give pledges, who put up security for debts. If you have nothing with which to pay, why should your bed be taken from you?” (22:26,27). In other words, if you don’t have the money, and have no prospects of paying off your debt, don’t spend the money!

Humility, how pure thy place!

Thou seat of holiness!

Thou door of entrance into grace

And everlasting bliss!

Oh, make thy blest abode with me,

Thou angel of the sky;

If I may ever dwell with thee,

My soul shall never die. -- William G. Schell (1897)