2023_08_04 Insight Post- Teresa Marley
This week’s reading- Psalms 89, Psalms 110, Psalm 1, Proverbs 1-2
Growing up we can all remember our parents teaching and guiding us to keep us safe. As a child, I remember my mom teaching me to look both ways when crossing the street or to not talk to strangers. Later, in my teenage years, my dad taught me hard work, discipline, and perseverance. I knew all these teachings and lessons were good for me because my parents loved me and wanted me to have a successful life. In my late thirties, I gave my life to Christ, and I enthusiastically delved into the Bible for the first time. I quickly realized the Bible is like an owner’s manual to a successful Christian life. In this week’s reading, Proverbs 1 and 2 are a perfect example of how essential the Bible is to lead a meaningful life. In Proverbs 1 verse 3 it says, “Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, to help them do what is right, just and fair.” I also love what Proverbs 1 verse 8 says, “My child, listen when your father corrects you. Don’t neglect your mother’s instruction. What you learn from them will crown you with grace and be a chain of honor around your neck.” How lucky are we that our heavenly Father loves us so much just like a parent that He gave us the gift of the Bible. In fact, it is our owner’s manual!
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve referred to the Bible when facing a dilemma and every time I gain insight on what I should do. Whether your dilemma deals with relationships, marriage, parenting, or anything else, you will find some guidance in the Bible. What about you? Do you go to the Bible for teaching and guidance? Is it the first place you turn to? I encourage you to use the Bible as your first resource, and I promise you will gain insight and be put on the right path just like Proverbs 2 verse 20 says, “So follow the steps of the good, and stay on the paths of the righteous. For only the godly will live in the land, and those with integrity will remain in it.” Definitely words to live by in my book!
Now let’s talk about Proverbs 2 and the benefits of wisdom. Cambridge Dictionary says wisdom is the ability to make good judgments based on what you have learned from your experience, or the knowledge and understanding that gives you this ability. In other words, wisdom is having insight, good sense, judgment, and experience. Proverbs 2 verse 6 says, “For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity. He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him.” I would like to think that in my 50-plus years, I have gained some wisdom from my life experiences and from reading the Bible. I really don’t consider myself to be a wise person per se, but when faced with a dilemma, I am wise enough to turn to the Bible and pray and seek counsel from people I trust. I am fortunate to have several friends with a great deal of wisdom that I really value. Do you have a good wise friend you trust? I strongly encourage you to find one.
I am so thankful for the guidance and teaching I received growing up from my parents, and I am especially grateful that we have a heavenly Father that loves us. He shows us the best way to live our lives if we are willing to obey. He created us, and He knows what is best for us. The honest truth is my life would be very different, and I would be lost without His guidance and teachings. How are you choosing to live your life? Are you lost or on the right path? I pray you choose to listen to our Father’s word and live a disciplined and righteous life.
Teresa Marley
Senior Finance Director