Our scripture this morning is Proverbs 4:23-27.
Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Avoid all perverse talk; stay away from corrupt speech. Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil.
Many of the wise sayings in Proverbs are attributed to King Solomon, who on becoming the ruler of Israel, asked God for wisdom in order to rule well (2 Chronicles 1:10). While we may not have a country and subjects to deal with, there are issues to handle and people depending us. We have responsibilities to God and each other.
He warns us to “guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life”. In this case our hearts represent the core values in our lives, our character and behavior. Solomon advises us to “keep your feet from following evil”, to know that God has better things planned for us.
God wants us to use all our gifts wisely, but we can only do that by being connected to Him and learning from His word. Jesus came to show us how wonderful our relationship with our Heavenly Father and each other can be. The promise of salvation is given to us, but we must live wisely in faith and obedience to God’s law.
Gracious God, we are sorry for the times we act foolishly, ignoring Your love and guidance. Help us to be the people we were created to be, in service to others and in union with You. Amen.
