Posted: 8/16/2005 4:45:56 AM EDT
With these thoughts as a foundatioin, it is helpful to read these passages not just as pithy sayings that lead you to live in a certain way, but as revealing the character of God Himself. With a little reflection, you can see the following aspects of God's character in this passage: (20) God often uses people around you to provide guidance in dealing with daily decisions; (21) God's sovereign rule often runs counter to the hidden plans we make in our hearts; (22) God is kind and truthful, and expects the same in us; (23) God protects those who fear him from many evils in the world; (24) God dislikes laziness; (25) God regards growing in the fear of Him as a good thing in all people; (26) God will punish those who treat their parents with neglect and abuse by bringing public ridicule against them; (27) God's Word and providencial discipline of his children have a preservative effect on on our lives; (28) God is not indifferent to the conduct of liars in society at large, and He punishes a society that tolerates liars by allowing it to reap the ugly problems that result from sin; (29) God will, in one way or another, bring misery to those who disregard His eye upon them. Have a great day. |
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Upon a little more reflection, it may be that the word "counsel" in v. 21 is intended to mean "guidance given from the Lord to us," rather than His secret plans. With this reading, the verse encourages us to make our plans as close to conformity with God's wisdom as possible, if we wish the results of our plans to be something that achieves our intended objective in a lasting way. Either reading is worthwhile to meditate upon, and worthy of further study... Comments? |
Good to see you back, I wasnt so good at the daily Scriptures. I agree that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Like you mentioned, not a servcile fear or one of dread, but of love. I fear to disappoint my loving father because of the shame I will endure. I fear to let Him down after all He has dne on my behalf. If it were not all of God, I would not be saved, even my ability to thank Him is a gift from Him. |