As we move into chapter 7, which concludes the first section in the book of Proverbs which has been the letter of Solomon addressed to his sons; we see Solomon now try to illustrate the importance of wisdom by telling a story. He uses this story to conclude his letter; and, much like a parable bring the truth of what he had been writing into a format to “drive home the point.” Throughout the first 7 chapters he had referred to wisdom as “she” as though wisdom was like a pure, righteous woman like as ones mother or older sister who guide the hands, train the hearts, and leads one closer to God.
Drawing used with written permission of Ronald Barba. © 2012 Ronald Barba and is protected under copyright laws.
That wisdom is a gift from God which must be sought after, clung to, written on ones heart, and wrapped tightly about ones neck like a collar to lead you in the right direction. Without wisdom and understanding, the heart is easily swayed to follow after folly.
How easy for lusts and desires to draw one away and toward a path of destruction? To ascertain that his sons understand this, he tells them the story of a foolish young man wandering the streets at night and is
seduced by a married woman—dressed like a harlot (Proverbs 7). Perhaps, he felt that this story would help them realize the truth concerning their need for wisdom; although, he wanted them to see more than merely avoid adultery. He wanted them to realize that all sin begins when one lays aside God’s wisdom to folly after any fleshly desire. After all, this was a fleshly desired he hoped they could grasp and understand. He had described many others in the previous chapters of the letter such as pride, gossiping, cantankerous behaviors, money matters, and seeking after anything aside from God. He wanted them to understand that the result of sin was death—spiritual and one day eternal, if they did not grasp these truths.
As, the inspired word of God; this entire letter that Solomon wrote was written as a letter of God to mankind. He wants everyone to understand that if we seek Him, we shall find Him. Deuteronomy 4(NIV) “29 But if from there you seek the Lord your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul. 30 When you are in distress and all these things have happened to you, then in later days you will return to the Lord your God and obey him.” God is the only wisdom, joy, hope or comfort that you need. Proverbs 3: (NIV)5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;6 in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight.”
The first step is to acknowledge in the depth of your heart that you are a sinner and that you need a Savior. Then accept the gift that Christ bought for you on the Cross through his sacrificial death. He conquered death and is reigns victorious over sin’s curse. He bids you to come and to follow Him. Ask Him into your heart and ask Him for the wisdom you need each and every day of your life. He is the greatest treasure you could ever seek. He is your joy, your peace, your love, and your hope. All other desires only lead to counterfeit joys which draw you into eternal death and destruction. So, my question is: “Do You Known Him?”
Sing along with me, I Have Decided to Follow Jesus
I Have Decided to Follow Jesus with lyrics
Preview by Yahoo
New International Version (NIV)
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
© 2014 Effie Darlene Barba
Drawing used with written permission of Ronald Barba. © 2012 Ronald Barba and is protected under copyright laws. If you desire copies please go to:
http://fineartamerica.com/featured/ultimate-inspiration-gods-plan-of-love-ronald-barba.html
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to any brands, products or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides regarding the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”