Proverbs 30 walks us through a series of riddles, some telling us about the things we should seek to avoid, others about relationships, but all tying us back into the common thread and theme of the book of Proverbs:
Wisdom.
Ultimately, we are being asked to not only consider our actions, but perhaps even more importantly, to consider the outcome(s) of these actions. Wisdom invites us to think a few steps ahead, to not only think about the thoughts we will think, the words we will say, and the things we will do, but also about the consequences that our thoughts, words, and actions will bring.
Wise living always thinks a few steps ahead.
As we read through Proverbs 30 today, let’s posture ourselves once again as students of the Word of God, positioning ourselves as teachable, desiring to learn from these words of wisdom. This humble posture will always invite wisdom into our lives.
“Every word of God is flawless;
he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.” Proverbs 30:5
If we could learn to live in this place of faith and belief in the Word of God, I wonder how much more hope would be flooding the hearts of God’s people. We would know Him to be our refuge and our protective shield. We would live in the nearness of His covering over our lives.
“Two things I ask of you, Lord;
do not refuse me before I die:
Keep falsehood and lies far from me;
give me neither poverty nor riches,
but give me only my daily bread.” Proverbs 30:7-8
Do we also prioritize such things: to be honest and upright and to recognize that our greatest need is Jesus Christ? I’ve heard it said before that character takes a lifetime to build but only a moment to destroy. I want to be known for Christlike character and integrity. This comes by keeping first things first.
“If you play the fool and exalt yourself,
or if you plan evil,
clap your hand over your mouth!” Proverbs 30:32
I love this verse. Simply put, if you find yourself guilty in any of this, just stop! Stop thinking those things. Stop saying those things. Stop doing those things. Just put your hand over your mouth and restrain yourself. Profound, yet ever so simple. It just requires a bit of self-control.
“For as churning cream produces butter,
and as twisting the nose produces blood,
so stirring up anger produces strife.” Proverbs 30:33
The natural byproduct of certain actions is listed in this verse. Do this, and this will happen. Sometimes, all it takes is a quick look at a simple thing to open up our eyes. If you press milk, it will produce curds. If you press the nose, it will produce blood. If you press anger, it will produce strife. So, what if you press obedience instead? Perhaps, it will produce wisdom in you.
Wisdom for my soul and hand over my mouth. :)))