Scriptures:
Proverbs 19:3, 8 and 11A man’s own folly ruins his life, yet his heart rages against the LORD. He who gets wisdom loves his own soul; he who cherishes understanding prospers. A man’s wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense. (NIV)
Observation:
These passages in Proverbs shine like stars in the dark night. They speak to the responsibility for the way our lives go. Folly, not failures and attempts ruin a life. Folly is the lack of good common sense or not thinking through and weighing the cost. But the passage states the origin of the folly – it is due to a heart that is at war with God. It is a heart that is against Him.
Counter to a heart that rages against God is a heart that gets wisdom and understanding. The heart of folly is often an impatient heart and moves quickly to be hurt and offended by others. But the wise, the understanding, the one who loves his own soul well, has become a lover of God and is for Him and not against Him. This person has guarded their heart and realizes the foolishness in taking offense.
Application:
It is essential to know God and His wisdom. But in order to have this, one must be a diligent seeker of God and possess a devoted and hungry heart for Him. This person is not simply seeking His blessings – what he can get from God, but a deeper understanding of life itself on God’s terms and the knowledge that comes from knowing God Himself. This type of deep and intimate relationship with God fills our hearts with an irrefutable love and moves us from self-glory to His glory, from folly to wisdom, from being offended to being one who overlooks the offense. This right heart allows us to bring honor and glory to God no matter what it takes.
Prayer:
Dear God, Your word speaks to my heart today, concerning my need. This need is to live with a right heart, fully dependent upon you as my instructor and guide. When I believe I can make it on my own – help me to trust in you, God. When I feel I know enough to make the decision – help me to seek you, God When I am wronged or misunderstood – help me to overlook the offense I could easily take. When my heart is hurt, help me to run to you to receive what I need. Amen
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