Defender

Solomon reminds his listeners that God is always on the side of the fatherless, the outcast and those who are vulnerable. This Proverb was a way of teaching the younger generation that the 'Defender of the weak' (Yahweh) will take up the case of the defenseless. It may seem that the poor can't afford lawyers fees, but their Advocate is none other than God himself.

 "Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless, for their Defender is strong; he will take up their case against you. Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge." - Proverbs 23:10-12

In what way can we stand with those who are 'fatherless' and vulnerable during this time of Covid-19?

“The warrior stands, ready to defend, ready to fight for those he serves. He is a warrior of virtue, A knight of conscience. He is who we all wish to be.” - Anthony T. Hincks

“Defend the weak, protect both young and old, never desert your friends. Give justice to all, be fearless in battle and always ready to defend the right." - Brian Jacques

Living in Grace

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Riches come and go

"Do not wear yourself out to get rich;
    do not trust your own cleverness.
5 Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone,
    for they will surely sprout wings
    and fly off to the sky like an eagle." - Proverbs 23:4-5

These words seem strange coming from a man who had so much wealth. Clearly Solomon must have learnt a lot about the fragility of riches and wealth. When you have lots then you have many friends, but when the tough times come, then many people move onto greener pastures. I am sure that it is not just Solomon who came to understand this truth.

Jesus said something very similar:

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." - Matthew 6:19-21

Human greatness does not lie in wealth or power, but in character and goodness. People are just people, and all people have faults and shortcomings, but all of us are born with a basic goodness. Anne Frank

The only wealth which you will keep forever is the wealth you have given away. Marcus Aurelius

Living in Grace

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Proverbs 23 - Soak yourself

Capetonians don't have the luxury of having a soaking bath anymore, but I am sure we can all remember a moment where a long bath helped alleviate much stress. So, if you can imagine yourself getting into a soaking hot bath, then add Solomon's thoughts into the mix - he suggests that we rather soak ourselves into the 'Fear of God.'


Don’t for a minute envy careless rebels;
    soak yourself in the Fear-of-God—
That’s where your future lies.
    Then you won’t be left with an armload of nothing. - Proverbs 23:17-18 (Message)

His suggestion seems very weird and awkward, but his point is this: "By submerging ourselves in AWE of God, we are ready to give our all to God and not focus on temporary things. When we are fully covered by God's presence we know that God will cleanse us and renew our hearts.

Thoughts?

Psalm 17:8 - Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings

Living in Grace
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