Proverbs Chapter 30
Scott Bruegman
Today, we are focusing on Proverbs 30 in this Riddles of the Wise Journey. I’m Brian, and I get to share with you today.
Regardless of your background, abilities, or socio-economic status, we all are invited to grow in our relationship with God. If and when we accept that invitation is up to us. For some of us, we are quick learners and don’t need to be convinced that God loves us and His direction is always best. For others, like myself, we need some convincing, and enjoy learning the hard way.
Growing up, I was taught well by loving parents, but when I heard the stove was hot I always had to painfully verify the truth. Far from God, I went to college with a “question everything” type of attitude, which morphed into zealously finding fault with Christians. I loved point out how judgmental and hypocritical they seemed to be, while arrogantly believing that I was somehow different. Thanks to God, I eventually humbled myself, and came to Christ. As I have matured, I look back on those days with a different perspective. I now have compassion for those I wrongly judged and criticized for making mistakes. I see God’s grace and love where before I only cared about myself.
In today’s chapter of Proverbs, which is an appendix to Solomon’s proverbs (written by a different author), we are not told much about the author. However, we do know is that he is very aware of his need for God’s wisdom. He says, “I am weary, God, but I can prevail. Surely I am only a brute, not a man; I do not have human understanding.”
The writer goes on explain how we all miss the mark and fall short of the ways of God. He goes on to say, “Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar.”
Can you relate to that today? Be encouraged. Recognizing that you fall short in life should actually be freeing. It points you toward God, who loves you and understands. It shows maturity to see your brokenness, honor God’s perfection, and take refuge in His word.
The more you live life, the more opportunity you have to learn from your mistakes. There is no better story of this phenomenon than the story in John 8. The Pharisees set a trap to see how Jesus would react to a woman caught in adultery. They dragged her in front of Jesus and stated that such a woman should be stoned to death for her actions. Then, they questioned Jesus on his theology and approach. Jesus said “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” At this, those that heard began to leave, the older ones first.” It is not a coincidence that the older ones dropped their stones first and walked away knowing full well the mistakes they have made in their own lives.
Everyday that passes is an opportunity for you to grow in compassion, wisdom, and learning to trust God’s word. We all make mistakes, and God’s grace is so sweet to forgive. Therefore, who are we to judge? Think about your life today, where do you need to trust God? His word is flawless and He wants to be your shield today. Don’t trust in your own strength, but take refuge in God today. You will look back and be grateful you did!
BZ