So, we are beginning to understand the importance of gaining God’s wisdom and that it needs to be written upon our hearts that we might grow in peace and the joy of God. So, we want to say “ok” just pour the wisdom into my brain, let’s go. Yet, it doesn’t work that way. Just like children learning to walk, to run, or to ride a bike; we need to study, to practice, and to fall down sometimes. Athletes would say, “there is no gain without pain.” Then why do we Christians think that we can grow to be strong spiritually without studying and without going through trials, suffering, and pain at times. Solomon wanted his children to understand this, for that reason with the next exhortation; he stops and explains once more the value of the lessons to be learned.
Drawing used with written permission of Ronald Barba. © 2011 Ronald Barba and is protected under copyright laws.
Learning the wisdom of God at times requires that we go through trials; there is no other way to transform a self-exalting heart into one that can be filled with the love of the Holy Spirit. Yet, when we are going through chastening or training; we must not lose sight of the prize. When we recognize that God has ordained the trial because He loves us; then, we can accept the trial as good.
Instead of pleading only that the storm stop, we can begin to ask God, “What do I need to learn from this?” We are then able to change our focus and our
passion from our momentary comfort to that of eternity. I fully recognize that is not easy at first and at the moment we are going through the pain; but, it is worth the pain—that I know all too well. So, did Solomon know this very well; that is why immediately after exhorting his son to not despise the chastening of the Lord and not to grow weary through the teaching trials; he once more proceeds to speak again of the wonderful blessings of obtaining wisdom. As though he is saying, “One more step, you can do it. Look at the prize, come on; you can do it. It is worth every step of this journey, every rough and rugged road. God who created this universe is the one who has ordained this—keep your eyes on Him. Don’t forget—keep your eyes focused on Him-He is the prize. Don’t lose sight and don’t be afraid; He will be your confidence and He will keep your foot from slipping. One day, you will see it was all worth it—God is your wisdom. He alone can fill you with joy. He is your greatest treasure. Don’t forget, one more step; keep on” So, now read:
Proverbs 3: 11 My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction:12 For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.13 Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.14 For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold.15 She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.16 Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour.17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.18 She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her.19 The Lord by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens.20 By his knowledge the depths are broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew.21 My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion:22 So shall they be life unto thy soul, and grace to thy neck.23 Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble.24 When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.25 Be not afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh.26 For the Lord shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken.”
Listen to Blessings by Laura Story
© 2014 Effie Darlene Barba
Drawing used with written permission of Ronald Barba. © 2011 Ronald Barba and is protected under copyright laws. If you desire copies please go to:
http://fineartamerica.com/featured/mountaintop-experiences-in-the-valley-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.”