Proverbs 3: 11-26

Proverbs 3: 11-26
My son, do not despise the Lord's discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in. Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who embrace her; those who lay hold of her will be blessed. By wisdom the Lord laid the earth's foundations, by understanding He set the heavens in place; by his knowledge the deeps were divided, and the clouds let drop the dew. My son, preserve sound judgment and discernment, do not let them out of your sight; they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble; when you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, for the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being snared. (NIV)

Much of this passage replicates what has been stated in the previous chapters. It emphasizes the importance and benefits of God's wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. It is stated that the whole world came in to being by these things. This continues to emphasis the unfathomable power that God has provided for us to tap in to in order to live the BEST POSSIBLE LIFE. The more I read, the more convinced I become that God's motivation for giving us scripture is to EXPAND the joy and productiveness of our lives, not to be a restriction on what we can do, should do, can't do, etc. This is reinforced in the first verse of this passage. God disciplines us because he loves us like a father loves his son. Just as we would want the very best for our own children, and would provide instruction and guidance to them, God provides instruction and guidance in our lives so that we may live our lives to the fullest potential. I think that too many people (Christians and Non-Christians) believe that God is looming over them waiting to hit them with a lightning bolt if they step out of line. This belief drives many away from God and church. I believe this to be one of the very top reasons people do not commit their lives to Christ. It is our responsibility as Christians to remove this misconception from the minds of the public and replace it with the TRUTH of our God.