The Beginning of Wisdom

In the midst of tough economic times, the best is usually not brought out in us. We fear what may befall the financial institutions, what actions Congress will take, how long this will last, how much more value our homes & IRA's will lose, and a host of other things. The glimmering hope in this darkness, however, is that it brings us to a place of need and that gives God something to work with. It gives place in our lives for the realization that we're insufficient without Him.


Beyond financial hardship, so many people I know are dealing with pain & heartache in their lives. Again, something God can work with, but it's very easy for us to rely on worldly tactics for coping. We distract ourselves with parties, gatherings, and whatever fun activities takes our minds off our situation in stead of seeking the One who can heal us.


God's word today, whether or not you're going through hard times, is to follow after Him, not the world.

^"11 The LORD spoke to me with his strong hand upon me, warning me not to follow the way of this people. He said:

¹² "Do not call conspiracy
everything that these people call conspiracy;
do not fear what they fear,
and do not dread it.

¹³ The LORD Almighty is the one you are to regard as holy,
he is the one you are to fear,
he is the one you are to dread,

¹⁴ and he will be a sanctuary;
but for both houses of Israel he will be
a stone that causes men to stumble
and a rock that makes them fall.
And for the people of Jerusalem he will be
a trap and a snare."

Let us fear God and no longer follow after the ways of this people. Study the Word to understand healthy fear of the Lord and to gain a desire to seek after Him. Don't be deceived, that desire doesn't come from will power alone. Don't be like some from the houses of Israel for whom God was a stumbling block. Rather let Him be the Rock on which you stand. Peace & Love