What’s of great importance to you? As we grow older, our priorities certainly do change. The things that used to be of high value to us, are not any longer of great magnitude in our hearts.
Material possessions are nice, but if we strive to acquire them, we can wear ourselves out.
As we look at Proverbs 23, we read this early on in the chapter: “Do not wear yourself out to get rich; have the wisdom to show restraint.” Proverbs 23: 4
Then the writer continues saying, “Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle.” Proverbs 23: 5
Where are our trust and allegiance?
Are we craving riches and a wealthy status in the world? If so, material things will not satisfy the deep longings of our hearts. Precious time with family, and rest, talks, and walks with those I love have ascended up the scale of priorities in my life as I age.
As we mature, we crave good solid relationships full of wisdom with great conversations, lots of laughter, and making new memories.
In the book of Proverbs, we are warned to do away with foolish ways and even foolish people. Here’s why: “Do not speak to a fool, for he will scorn the wisdom of your words.” Proverbs 23: 9
Foolish people despise wisdom and hate correction.
Being corrected improves our character and strengthens our walk with the Lord.
Learn to “Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.” Proverbs 23: 12
Did you know that when our heart is wise it makes our Daddy God happy just like a proud earthly father? The father in this story is expressing his emotions to his son, but as we read it, it reflects the heart of the heavenly Father to us, His children.
“My son, if your heart is wise, then my heart will be glad; my inmost being will rejoice when your lips speak what is right.” Proverbs 23: 15-16
The father continues with his conversation with his son and tells him not to have a heart that holds envy.
He says, “There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.” Proverbs 23: 18
I highlighted this because someone needs to hear this today. I hope it encourages you as it did me.
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29: 11
Embrace His plans to release hope that will lead you into your future.
“…Wisdom is like honey for you: If you find it, there is a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.” Proverbs 24: 14
This is an updated edition of a post originally published on My Beloved’s Voice
KINGDOM ASSURANCE
You can find all of the Kingdom Assurance series posts by clicking the button below.
