Wednesday, April 12, 2017
It is widely accepted that Proverbs, Chapter 3, is the specific advice that David wrote for his son, Solomon. Most bible readers are familiar with the advice in this chapter to trust in the Lord with all our heart, and not lean on our own understanding (vs. 5) but the entire chapter is a storehouse of advice for living a meaningful and blessed life. Here are two examples: (verse 3) Advice: “Never let loyalty and kindness leave you.” Result: You will find favor both with God and people and earn a good reputation. Do you have any relationship issues in your life? Perhaps you should consider if you have been a loyal friend yourself and treated others with kindness. (verse 7) Advice: “Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil.” Result: You will have healing for your body and strength for your bones.
The one thing that most caught my attention while reading this chapter earlier today, however, was verse 21 which reads: “My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion.” Wisdom begins with fearing and honoring God and staying as close to Him as possible. Among the many benefits for doing just that is a sound and restful sleep. Verse 24 says: “When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.”
The manufacturers of drugs and over the counter medications formulated especially for helping people sleep are probably making billions of dollars on a yearly basis. Most of us have turned to these meds at one time or another. In fact, there are many folks who take them on a daily basis. I was reminded today, by the truth of God’s Word, that the surest way of enjoying a sound sleep is by staying in close communion with our God. We all know that God is love but we should also know that He is wisdom. Therefore, verse 21 could also be read this way: “My son, do not let the Lord out of your sight.” If you are they type that has trouble sleeping at night, perhaps you have been focusing more on your situation than on God. If that’s the case, keep your eyes on Him and sleep well.
God’s word for today: (Psalm 127:2) “It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones.”
