Among the many inventions Waze is amazing. It helps us navigate the roads in real-time based on live traffic updates. Then it provides us options to choose from. Wouldn’t life be simpler if we had a similar App for crucial life decisions that we have to make and our options are laid out for us?
Actually yes, we do have a resource only different. Indeed, it allows us the freedom to choose (unfortunately, not the freedom from the consequences of our choice). If we are willing to do a diligent search, it promises the following: To know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity; to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the youth—Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance, to understand a proverb and a saying, the words of the wise and their riddles.1
It is unsettling though for everything that is written in it is true2 and may be a direct affront to what we otherwise believe. There is no partiality nor favoritism.3 It also has the temerity to boldly say that we are not to trust ourselves—Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.4 And in a fatherly manner it counsels, My son, do not lose sight of these—keep sound wisdom and discretion, and they will be life for your soul . . . Then you will walk on your way securely, and your foot will not stumble. If you lie down, you will not be afraid; . . .5
Then it contrasts between a blessed man and a man that perishes. It cautions us against keeping the wrong company. And teaches that those that delight in his words and meditates on them day and night would be like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. It differentiates the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked.6
Unlike Waze, the results may not be instant nor real-time. There may be a season of preparation, testing, and waiting. And the promises may be partial, progressive, and conditional. Best if you treat it like hidden treasure. If you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. Then you will understand righteousness and justice and equity, every good path; for wisdom will come into your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul; discretion will watch over you, understanding will guard you, delivering you from evil, . . .7
But surely, All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.8
Don’t just take my word for it, discover the Bible for yourself. Be like the Bereans who received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.9
Notes:
1. Proverbs 1:2-6
2. Psalm 119:160
3. Acts 10:34
4. Proverbs 3:5-8
5. Proverbs 3:21-23
6. Psalm 1:1-6
7. Proverbs 2:4-5, 9-12
8. 2 Timothy 3:16-17
9. Acts 17:10-11