Thursday's Thought

Proverbs 6:20-21

²⁰ My son, keep thy father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother:

²¹ Bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck.

Good morning, family and friends!

Welcome to Day 6, Chapter 6, in our Perusing the Proverbs. I am enjoying this trek through this book of the Bible, finding so much helpful instruction, and I hope you are enjoying it along with me.

When we first began the study of this book for this month, I mentioned that the Book of Proverbs contained important advice regarding money matters. Chapter 6 begins with Solomon's admonition to his son regarding the danger of being surety for a friend. The father's words are strong as he pointed out the trouble one gets in by loaning money or guaranteeing a deal for someone. Don't strike hands with a stranger. If you find yourself in this kind of situation, get away from it. 

Here we see yet another word picture. If the son (or any of us) gets into trouble sealing deals and striking hands over money, the instruction is to FLEE! Humble yourself; do not go to sleep until you have made things right. Get away from it as a deer who knows the hunter is near; or like the bird who is about to be captured by the fowler. 

Then, Solomon turned his attention to sluggards or lazy people. For an object lesson, Solomon used the ant. These tiny creatures, "having no guide, overseer, or ruler" get the job done! Those who have observed these insects know that they work together to plan for the future. We stand to learn a lot from the ants!

Next, avoid the "naughty person" because he "walks with a perverse mouth". Again, we see another word picture as this bad guy is described as winking with his eyes, speaking with his feet (hmmm... talking feet!) and teaching with his fingers. He is a mischievous person who goes around sowing discord. But, his day is coming, when he will be broken without someone to put him back together again.

There are seven things that God hates. If we are Christians, we should love what God loves and hate what He hates, right? God despises liars, people who shed innocent blood, those with evil hearts and imaginations, mischievous runners, those who bear false witness, and He really hates those who sow discord. 

Once again, Solomon emphasized to his son the importance of keeping the commandments and laws of his parents. Hold what we have told you close to your heart. The commandments are given to light your path, and to keep you from "strange women." To fall into adultery is to be burned and humiliated. Those who are enticed by her seduction will not only lose their souls, but will bear reproach forever. 

I'm grateful for all this godly instruction, which is more valuable in 2015 than ever before!

May God bless your Thursday and, Lord willing, I'll see you tomorrow for yet another spoonful......

P.S. Please pray for my uncle, cousins, and their children as we lay to rest one of my dear aunts today. Thanks much!