Seeking God's Wisdom
"The LORD detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with him. When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity. Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death. The righteousness of the blameless makes their paths straight, but the wicked are brought down by their own wickedness."1
Proverbs is a mine of wisdom and contains a wide range of life advice. But be warned, it won't always give you the advice you expect.
We are bombarded with supposed "keys" to success: "Seven Ways to Get Rich in the Twinkling of an Eye" or "Ten Methods to Succeed at Work." There are too many suggestions that propel us to the glory of the world. While some are helpful, they do not come close to the depth contained in the book of Proverbs.
God's wisdom is not limited to helping us gain something or make us rich. God's wisdom transforms us. The Holy Spirit-filled words contained in Proverbs produce life and fulfillment in a way that human wisdom could never reach. Why? Because only the Scriptures lead us to God Himself.
Instead of material prosperity, God's Word brings prosperity to our entire being, as it is a transformation at the soul level. God's Word is the best source of life advice. It heals the soul by drawing us to God.
Today's passage provides keys for the workplace. However, it doesn't matter if you're working or not, these three timeless principles can influence any aspect of your life:
Integrity. The Lord approves of exact weights (verse 1). For example, a produce seller who weighs merchandise fairly for his customers. The point is clear: he acts with integrity. Integrity is who you are when no one is watching. Whenever you work, remember what Proverbs says, do it God's way, that is, honestly. Scammers may be able to make quick profits, but they're never worth it. Prioritize your character over your gain and trust God for the rest. You won't regret it.
Humility. Pride is what precedes destruction. True wisdom is found in humility. When we're surrounded by proud people, it's easy to fall into the comparison game and always try to outdo others. Surely that is not God's style. Humility is the true path to success. You know what they say: "Humility is not thinking that you are less than others, but thinking less about yourself." Resist pride, serve others, and marvel at how your life in God's hands progresses.
Fidelity. This is a lost art in our society. Sometimes infidelity is even applauded. However, God's Word is clear: "Unfaithful people are destroyed by their duplicity" (verse 3). Living a faithful life – with God, with your spouse, with your friends, with your boss, co-workers and students – is something that will benefit you over time. Decide to be a faithful friend, someone others can trust. That way you will reflect Jesus, because he is the faithful friend who never fails.
Meditate for a moment on these words: integrity, humility, and faithfulness, and think about how you can use them in your day-to-day life. Ask God for His help and allow His wisdom to guide you.
Suggested prayer. Dear Lord Jesus, help me to live today with integrity, humility, and faithfulness not only in my work, but with all the people around me, even when it seems difficult. Please give me your wisdom to live according to your will and help me make choices that reflect your character. Thank you for your loving guidance in all that I do and thank you also that I know you are with me and care for me. In your precious name, Amen.
1. Proverbs 11:1-5 (NVI).
Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N.
All articles on this website are written by
Richard (Dick) Innes unless otherwise stated.