How are your flocks doing?


Proverbs 27:23-24--From my daily readings and meditations on the book of Proverbs I've come to appreciate several "old-fashioned" words. One of those is prudence.

Today's verses are probably one of the most beautiful illustrations of a prudent person.

First, a reminder of the definition of a prudent person. A prudent person has the ability to:
  • govern and discipline themselves by the use of reason
  • be shrewd in the management of their affairs
  • employ skill and good judgment in the use of resources.

Verses 23-24 speak of the wisdom and prudence of holding wealth lightly. Wisdom cautions against the sense of entitlement, even with royalty.

If we are observant with our money, property, and job, we can spot potential problems in the future and make plans to manage the situation as best as possible.

This is not about fear, this is about wisdom. When we pay attention to our "flocks" and the trends and climate about us, we will see signs. Not only physical trends we might see in the news, but the "real" trends--the spiritual ones.

God does appoint watchers of signs and trends. The sons of Issachar were such people. In 1 Chronicles 12:33 we see a great example:

"...from the sons of Issachar—men who know how to interpret the signs of the times to determine what Israel should do—200 chiefs with all their kinsmen under their command..."

The sons of Issachar could interpret for Israel, I believe God also appoints us to interpret the signs for our families. By knowing well our families, paying attention to our homes, and holding lightly to things, but tightly to God and our loved ones, we are better able to hear from the Lord--to interpret any signs that tell us we are to shift our plans and how to prepare.

It's all pretty exciting. But, it's also hard work. Let's be prudent, my friends.

Proverbs 27:23-24--Know well the condition of your flocks, pay attention to your herds, for riches are not forever, nor a crown from generation to generation. Tree of Life Bible Society Tree of Life Version - TLV #tlvbible#tlvproverbs

[WATCH Tree of Life Bible Society's CEO, Daniah Greenberg and me, Terri Gillespie, Author dig a little deeper with this proverb. Check us out at Tree of Life Bible Society, Monday through Friday, LIVE at 8:30am EST. Watch previous episodes there as well. Stay wise, my friends!]

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