Hold On and Don’t Let Go

Think back to your teenage years for a minute. Most of us spent those years struggling to fit in somewhere, learning how to manage hormones, or maybe going through an awkward growth spurt. Oh, yeah… and we thought we knew everything! Do you remember those days? Perhaps you’re like me and raising a teenager (or two) who think they know everything. I’m having all kinds of flashbacks to how I was at that age. I knew the whole reaping what you sow thing would catch up with me, but I didn’t realize it would be this real! Personal experience has taught me I should’ve listened more when I was younger. Mark Twain said, “When I was a boy of fourteen, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand the old man around. But when I got to be 21, I was astonished at how much he had learned in seven years.” Can you relate?

A natural part of growing up is realizing you have a lot to learn. King Solomon knew this and was intentional about passing on wise instruction. In Proverbs 4, the reader is strongly encouraged to seek after wisdom and hold tightly to instruction. The benefits are worth whatever struggle you may experience in gaining wisdom. This proverb lists the benefits of holding tightly to wisdom. These benefits include stability, protection, healing, direction, a guarded heart, and much more. I’ll get in line for that. How about you? The believer who seeks wisdom will avoid the pitfalls and obstacles that others encounter when they detour away from the truth of God’s Word.

Reflective Questions:

1.  Can you think of a time when you received some great advice, but didn’t listen to it? What was that advice? What lesson did you learn by not listening? 

2.  What are some common areas where you struggle to seek godly wisdom?

3.  How has godly wisdom influenced the direction of your life?

Memory verse:

Take firm hold of instruction, do not let go; keep her, for she is your life. Proverbs 4:13

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for the benefits of godly wisdom such as stability, protection, healing, and direction. Help me to always seek you and your kingdom first.