Do's and Don'ts of Proverbs 3
Life is a training ground from the moment we are born. Newborns are trained, well, attempted to be trained in good sleeping patterns. Depending on the culture we live in we are trained in the areas of food consumption and traditions. On and on the process goes. When an inquiry comes as to why we are instructing in some manner, sometimes the quick reply may be, "Because I said so." Other times, the response includes an explanation of why the process being trained is beneficial.
I've shared before when I was growing up my parents would say, "Be sure you have a dime in your pocket, so if your plans change you can find a phone and call us." I thought, "Why does that matter as long as I am home when I am supposed to be?" Then, while traveling in Europe in the 1970s my parents changed their hotel plans and didn't let us know. My grandfather was murdered that day and it took us until the next day when they picked back up on their itinerary to find them. How we wished they had called with their change of plans.
"Much of Proverbs 3 is written as a series of recommendations paired with results. These imperative statements follow a simple pattern: If you do (or don’t do) this, the result will be that. " First 5.org
v 1-2 My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments, for the length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you.
v 3-4 Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man.
v 5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
v 7-8 Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.
v 9-10 Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.
v 11-12 My son, do not despise the Lord's discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the Lord reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights.
v 21-23 My son, do not lose sight of these-keep wisdom and discretion, and they will be life for your soul and adornment for your neck. Then you will walk on your way securely, and your foot will not stumble.
Dig into Proverbs everyday and take out a bit of wisdom!
The Song
"I Believe It" Jon Reddick
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-z1OK54Ae0
