WISDOM AND GOOD SENSE
30th Mar 2022
Over the past couple of weeks I have been reading the book of Proverbs, and once again been amazed at the practical wisdom that is on every page.
Billy Graham used to read the book of Proverbs and all the Psalms every month. He read it from the Living Bible and published it in a beautiful leather bound edition which he gave to many who were involved in his Crusades; a copy was given to my father in 1989.
The book is so full of understanding of human nature, the wisdom of the wise and the folly of the foolish. I recommend that if you have not read it recently you do so soon. If you use my “Bible in One Year” reading plan you will have already been reading it like I have.
Here are some gems from Proverbs - 1:7 “He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless.” Most of us are familiar with 3:5-6, “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Chapter 4 extols the value of reading the Word, verses 20-22 include, “Listen closely to my words….for they are life to those who find them and health to a man’s whole body.” That was the verse which brought healing to Derek Prince as a young believer.
Chapters 5-7 warn of the folly and dangers of an immoral life in a practical and down to earth terms, 7:25-26 says, “Do not let your heart turn to her ways….many are the victims she has brought down; her slain are a mighty throng.”
Chapter 11 promises that, “A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.”
My mother loved quoting Proverbs 15:1 to her quarrelling children! “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.” I have to quote it in the King James version, as those were the words she used, and they worked!
A couple of verses jumped out to me from the Message translation. Chapter 14:26 & 27, “The Fear-of-God builds up confidence, and makes a world safe for your children. The Fear-of-God is a spring of living water, so you won’t go off drinking from poisoned wells.”
I love 17:22, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”
So let Proverbs, give your life a lift, sound some warnings and give you a few smiles!
by Charles Sibthorpe
