Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. Psalm 119:105
Proverbs 2
Proverbs 2:20 Thus you will walk in the ways of good men and keep to the paths of the righteous. NIV.
We live in a pragmatic culture. Often the standard for something to be correct (or right) is to see if it works. If it does, then it is the right thing to do. This may be true for many mechanical functions. The best way to construct a building produces a building which stands. The best cake is the one that tases good. Yet, this is not an infallible measure. The best way to make a pistachio flavored cake is not to use chocolate and extra eggs to insure moistness and the “best” flavor.
In the area of life and obedience to God, the standard of truth is God’s inspired Word – the Bible. Solomon advised us to submit to God’s word in two ways here. First, he instructs us to walk in the ways of good people. This is a primary rationale for our meeting with other believers. We see how godly people live. We do this not simply to admire them, we do it so we can better see how they live and to seek their loving counsel on how we may grow in grace and emulate their living. On several occasions in Proverbs, Solomon counsels us that we become like those with whom we associate. Associate with angry people and we become angry. Associate with patient people and we learn patience.
The second way is to walk in the paths of righteousness. This we learn, in part, by our associations with people, but more so in our association with God’s word. Based on my own thinking, I can avoid personal responsibility, blame others, and explain why it is logical I continue to live just the way I am. The Bible says that the way I am is the reason Jesus came to live, die, and rise again. He came to rescue me from the kingdom of darkness (my best thinking) and into the kingdom of light (newness of life in the Spirit). To guide me, God provided His written word and the counsel of godly and wise people who live what they believe. As I immerse myself in meditating on God’s word, I learn more clearly what God desires and acquire the means to live as a person devoted to my Savior.
My my thoughts and associations facilitate my growth in grace, wisdom, and obedience. Amen.
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