Wise Up!
I’ve learned a lot over the course of my life. I’ve learned that stoves are hot. I’ve learned to get in out of the rain if possible. I’ve learned to respect people older than me. I’ve learned to discern what is wise and what is foolish. I wish I could say that I always choose the way of wisdom. I’ve learned that the way of wisdom demands self-discipline. Self-discipline is not a “one and done” proposition. It is a lifestyle choice. I think self-discipline is needed every day of my life. I need self-discipline in what to eat, what to wear, where to go, who to hang out with and much more. I need self-discipline in every area of my work and every area of my personal life. I’ve also learned that you can “teach an old dog new tricks”!
1These are the proverbs of Solomon, David’s son, king of Israel.
2 Their purpose is to teach people wisdom and discipline,
to help them understand the insights of the wise.
3 Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives,
to help them do what is right, just, and fair.
4 These proverbs will give insight to the simple,
knowledge and discernment to the young.
5 Let the wise listen to these proverbs and become even wiser.
Let those with understanding receive guidance
6 by exploring the meaning in these proverbs and parables,
the words of the wise and their riddles.
7 Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge,
but fools despise wisdom and discipline.(Proverbs 1:1-7 NLT)
I believe wisdom is a journey NOT a destination. Self-discipline is a fundamental requirement to obtain wisdom. I have learned more self-discipline in my journey with the Lord than from any other source. He leads me and guides my life. He will help me IF I will listen. He is with me even when I ignore His prompting. He is so patient as I struggle with this. He is still building me. He is still expanding my wisdom quotient. He is constantly helping me wise up. His wisdom is gentle and compelling. His self-discipline is hard, but necessary and protective. Discipline is a critical in the discipleship process. If I am to be a follower/disciple of Jesus, I must learn self-discipline from him.
The laws of our land are boundaries to help us with discipline. If I practice self-discipline, then I’m less likely to face the discipline of law enforcement! I need to wise-up today and everyday and I believe the Word of God is an amazing source of content to help grow in wisdom and discernment.
Pressing On!
Dwayne