WHAT’S AT STAKE?
READ:
Proverbs 19:15-25
Listen to counsel and
receive
instruction, that you
may be
wise in your latter
days.
-Proverbs 19:20
To stake or not to stake?
That’s the question Marilyn faced when she planted a tree sapling last
summer. The salesman said, “Stake it for one year so it will be
supported in strong winds. Then remove
them so it can grow deep roots on its own.”
But a neighbor told her, “Staking
may cause more harm than good. The tree
needs to start building strong roots right away, or it may never. Not staking is best for long-term health.”
We wonder about that question in relationships too. For instance, if someone has gotten himself
into trouble, do we “stake him down” by
rescuing him, or do we let the person “grow
strong roots” on his own by allowing him to face the consequences of his
choices? Obviously it depends on what
seems best for the person’ long-term spiritual health. What does love do, and when does it do
it? Proverbs 19 gives opposite thoughts: We are to have “pity” and lend our assistance (v.17), yet there are dangers in
rescuing another because you might need to do it again (v.19). Providing the right help requires wisdom
beyond our own.
God hasn’t left us on our own. He will give us the wisdom when we ask
Him. And as we lean on Him, our own
roots will grow deep in Him as well. – Anne Cetas
We lack wisdom, Lord,
in many situations.
We know we’ll make mistakes,
but teach us to
be dependent on
You. Thank You that You will
be faithful. Grow our roots deep in You.
**************************************
Real wisdom is looking
at the world
From God’s point of
view
INSIGHT
Proverbs has much to
say about laziness (6:9-10; 12:24; 19:15, 24: 20:4, 26:13). It is the road to poverty and shame (10:4-5;
20:13; 24:33). Solomon exhorts us to be
wise and learn from the ant’s example of diligence and hard work (6:6-8). Paul also exhorted Christians to work hard to
earn a living (2 Thess. 3:10-12).
Have a blessed day.
God Our Creator’s Love Always
Unity & Peace
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