Proverbs 23:17-19 "Let not thine heart
envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the LORD all the day long.
(18) For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be
cut off. (19) Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart
in the way."
This entire 23rd chapter of Proverbs seems to be making a distinction between
the things we have, the things we want, the things we cannot have, and the
things we should not have. When you think about it, there is a clear difference
in all those things. There are things which satisfy and there are things which
promise satisfaction. There are things that are true and there are things which
are elusive and can never be obtained. There are things which fulfill their
promise and there are things which are deceitful. How can we know what is
to be desired and pursued? As I read verse 17, I see the strength of our daily
relationship (walk) with God. We are not to envy men whose intention changes
with the wind; rather, we are to hold our Lord in honor as we make decisions
and turns in life.
What would God have me to do? "Lord, what is your choice for me in this matter?" Why is this important? Again, it depends on our perception of God. Do we see Him as someone who is there to clean up our messes? Or, do we see Him as having complete understanding in all matters of our life? Does God have a purpose for me? How can I best fulfill that purpose? Is it not by giving honor to Him and seeking His direction for my life? I close with one of my all time favorite verses. "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end." (Jeremiah 29:11) The Lord truly knows the best way for my life. Is my relationship with Him strong enough that I trust His decision for me?