[07/24/2023 “teEn-MAIL”]
[This focus was originally sent 07/07/2009 (Edited some.)]
When I was in the seventh or eighth grade, I remember a guidance counselor telling me, “You appear to be very soft spoken, and you probably don’t speak up when you have questions or need help.” Though it may be a surprise to those who know me now, I was very soft spoken. I was hesitant to raise my hand, let alone my voice. A member of our congregation who is a retired schoolteacher used to tell his students, “The only dumb question is one not asked.”
When we don’t know something, we need to ask. The quest for knowledge and understanding is a lifelong pursuit. However, it is sad there are some who are ever learning, but still not able to come to a knowledge of the truth. (2 Timothy 3:7) Therefore we must put forth the needed effort, but with the right attitude.
What marks our pursuit of wisdom and understanding? Seeking to understand the things of God and wisely applying them to our life is an ongoing task. Note the verbs used by Solomon in relation to this quest.
Solomon urged. . .
“(1) My son, if you receive my words and treasure up my commandments with you, (2) making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding; (3) yes, if you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, (4) if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, (5) then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.” (Proverbs 2:1-5 ESV)
These eight expressions reflect the effort the pursuit of godly wisdom and understanding merits. First of all, there must be openness (a willingness to “receive” and accept) the truths God has revealed. Then there is the need to value God’s commands enough to retain (treasure) them. We are to give them sincere attention (be attentive) so as to not miss the significance of God’s wisdom for everyday living. Our heart needs to be continually drawn (inclined) toward God’s Will so as not to lean on our own direction or that of the world. We need to ask (call out and raise our voice) when we have questions so that we may receive more clarity from others who have gained more godly knowledge and wisdom than we at this point in our life. And the pursuit is to be as if compelled to dig deeply and far and wide (seeking and searching) for the greatest and most valuable possession we could ever gain. The promise is that through such effort we will come to understand the proper perspective we are to have of God and that we will find the knowledge of Him. May each day be marked by this most noble quest.
Have a great day GROWING IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
