Jun 3 (Daily reading: Proverbs 1-3) Solomon began his proverbs by giving advice to those who want wisdom, knowledge, and understanding: “Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance” (1:5, NIV). The path of wisdom is not a solitary one; we apply what we learn together through life experiences. When we are able to both receive and give guidance, we share in the accomplishment of God’s purposes for all of us.
Solomon warned against the schemes of men to make money. They say, “Throw in your lot with us; we will all have one money bag” (1:14). I have made some bad financial decisions in my 55 years of adult life because I did not seek God’s will before I acted. Solomon’s viewpoint is revealing: “Ill-gotten gain … takes away the life of those who get it” (1:19, NIV).
Solomon was wise in his priorities. Because he asked for wisdom and not for riches, God gave him wisdom, but also “riches and honor” (1 Kgs. 3:13). Solomon knew the heart of man would always seek after silver and hidden treasures, so he advised us to seek just as diligently after wisdom and understanding. This is the way we will “discover the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding” (2:5-6).
When you compare what Solomon wrote in Proverbs 3:5-6 to what David wrote in Psalm 37:3-5, you see that the apple did not fall far from the tree! Both began with “Trust in the LORD.” The father advised, “Commit your way to the LORD,” and the son wrote, “In all your ways acknowledge Him.” Spiritual victory results from trusting God, and not from human effort!
– Al Gary
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