WHAT’S AT STAKE?
READ:
Proverbs
19:15-25
Listen
to counsel and receive
instruction,
that you may be
wise
in your latter days.
-Proverbs
19:20
To stake or not to stake? That’s the question Marilyn faced when she
planted a tree sapling last summer. The
salesman said, “Stake it for one year so
it will be supported in strong winds.
Then remove them so it can grow deep roots on its own.” But a neighbor told her, “Staking may cause more harm than good. The tree needs to start building strong roots
right away, or it may never. Not staking
is best for long-term health.”
We wonder about that question in
relationships too. For instance, if
someone has gotten himself into trouble, do we “stake him down” by rescuing him, or do we let the person “grow strong roots” on his own by
allowing him to face the consequences of his choices? Obviously it depends on what seems best for
the person’ long-term spiritual health.
What does love do, and when does it do it? Proverbs 19 gives opposite thoughts: We are to have “pity” and lend our assistance (v.17), yet there are dangers in
rescuing another because you might need to do it again (v.19). Providing the right help requires wisdom
beyond our own.
God hasn’t left us on our own. He will give us the wisdom when we ask
Him. And as we lean on Him, our own
roots will grow deep in Him as well. – Anne Cetas
We
lack wisdom, Lord, in many situations.
We
know we’ll make mistakes, but teach us to
be
dependent on You. Thank You that You will
be
faithful. Grow our roots deep in You.
**************************************
Real
wisdom is looking at the world
From
God’s point of view
INSIGHT
Proverbs
has much to say about laziness (6:9-10; 12:24; 19:15, 24: 20:4, 26:13). It is the road to poverty and shame (10:4-5;
20:13; 24:33). Solomon exhorts us to be
wise and learn from the ant’s example of diligence and hard work (6:6-8). Paul also exhorted Christians to work hard to
earn a living (2 Thess. 3:10-12).
Have a blessed day.
God Our Creator’s Love Always
Unity & Peace
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