Putting the I into WISDOM
The Christians who have most influenced me for good have had a fully functional familiarity with the book of Proverbs. They were (and are) able to take their considerable knowledge and apply it to their lives, providing both godly examples and godly advice. Join with me as each one of us endeavors to put the I into WISDOM. Let us seek to exemplify God’s wisdom in our daily lives. (I will be using this opening paragraph for each of the brief messages in this series. The following material will change daily.)
Once we have made the wise choice to place ourselves under God’s kind and kingly authority, we can receive His wise counsel. Often these commands are strongly stated, but we should not be offended. Because they are good and necessary for us, we should be glad that they are not haltingly whispered but rather urgently and clearly spoken. Proverbs 1:10-15 is one such passage. Solomon tells his “son” (and us) that the allurements of evil are real. First, evil can appear exciting (verses 11-12), with plenty of action and entertainment. Second, evil can offer an easy way out (verse 13), appealing to even the smallest streak of laziness in us. Third, evil tempts us with a sense of belonging (verse 14); this need to be included is the primary reason that gangs can successfully recruit new members into their evil ranks. The powerful honesty of God’s Word confronts us with the problem and provides a direct remedy. Verse 10 reminds us that we do not have to “consent” to evil enticements. Verse 15 is even stronger, essentially telling us to get away from people and places that are dangerous. The direct words of Scripture contrast completely with the subtle blandishments and ultimately empty urgings of the unwise.