Hobart Herd Devotional – Proverbs 1 – 4-1-20
The Book of Proverbs is a book that challenges us to live in God’s wisdom. Written by the wisest man in scripture apart from God Himself, it is full of truth that can lead us into a life of joy, peace and fellowship with God and man. The first 7 verses give us a theme and purpose for the book ending with the purpose statement “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge”. The challenge is to listen and take instruction from those God places over us, vs. 8-9. Oh that we would listen and wear that “graceful garland” and pendent that comes from listening to wisdom.
We are warned to not be enticed and tempted to throw our hat in with those who reject God’s wisdom and choose sinful, rebellious, and harmful ways. It is so tempting to want to be with the popular people who stand out and whose “feet run to evil”. I am reminded of my youth when all I wanted was to be accepted and was willing to do most anything to fit in with the popular kids. So many times, I thought I could be happy if I just did the rebellious acts that would get me noticed and loved. Oh I was noticed, but not for the right reasons, and usually by those who would have to punish me. Praise the Lord for faithful parents who always encouraged me in the wisdom of the Lord and His Word. Sometimes that encouragement took on the form of painful discipline, but the board of knowledge was applied to the seat of wisdom with love.
The verse that stuck out to me the most is verse 23; “If you turn at my reproof, behold, I will pour out my spirit to you; I will make my words known to you”. The following verses remind me of the destruction that is waiting for those who do not listen to the rebuke and reproof of the Lord, ending with a promise to those who listen of security, ease and lack of dread.
Father, I know that I need Your wisdom in my life. I have tried my own ways and the ways of the foolish that leads to pain and misery. Forgive me for not listening and obey You word. Thank You for Your promise that You will “pour out Your Spirit” and make Your Words known to me if I will turn quickly at the sound of Your rebuke. Help me to listen and obey quickly when I know Your Spirit’s leading in my life. I want Your blessing more then the recognition and popularity among sinful men. I love You, Lord! May You be glorified in my life. In Jesus name, Amen. Pastor Rob