Scripture reading – Proverbs 24; 1 Kings 5
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While our Scripture reading continues in the Book of Proverbs (Proverbs 24), our chronological study of God’s Word returns to 1 Kings 5. Today’s devotional will be taken from Proverbs 24:3-4.
Solomon was a master builder, and the LORD entrusted the young king the responsibility of building His house (Temple) in Jerusalem (1 Kings 6-9). Perhaps having the construction of the Temple on his heart, Solomon employed an analogy of building a house to emphasize the need for godly wisdom when planning one’s life and raising a family (Proverbs 24:3-4). The king wrote:
Proverbs 24:3–4 – 3Through wisdom is an house builded; And by understanding it is established: 4And by knowledge shall the chambers be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.
I have had the opportunity to tear down a few buildings in my lifetime. I have fond childhood memories of assisting my Dad when he tore down a couple of old, weathered, clapboard-sided farmhouses and barns, which he then recycled to build barns on our property in the country. Unlike a contractor who follows meticulously drawn blueprints, my Dad’s de-construction projects required little more than hammers, crowbars, ladders, and physical effort!
Unfortunately, many believers fail to follow God’s blueprint when building their lives and families. I fear the manner of some is as destructive as a man who tears down rather than builds his home. Consider Solomon’s counsel to his son in building a family and home. [Again, I have amplified word meanings in italics and brackets.]
Proverbs 24:3 – 3Through [By] wisdom [godly wisdom and insight] is an house [life; family] builded[established]; and by understanding [insight; discernment] it is established [founded; fixed; made ready]:
Though most men can father a child, only men of godly wisdom know that building a family requires commitment, discernment, and understanding. Sadly, our society’s state shows that few have any concept of the personal discipline and sacrifice required for men and women to make a house a home! It seems few are willing to turn to the LORD, seek wisdom, and ask Him for discernment in the most crucial undertaking…establishing marriage and building a home (James 1:5).
Proverbs 24:4 – “And by knowledge [i.e., wisdom, understanding, and knowledge derived from life experiences] shall the chambers [rooms] be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.”
In this verse, the house and chambers Solomon portrayed represent a life or family built by godly wisdom. Notice that spiritual understanding was the home’s foundation (Proverbs 24:3), and the knowledge that comes from walking in the light of God’s Law was its furnishings (Proverbs 24:4).
Closing thoughts –
Where can a man or woman obtain knowledge to furnish a home? The Word of God!
Paul urged Timothy, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).
Why should a father be a disciplined student of God’s Word?
Because the Scriptures are God’s inspired Word and His manual for life and living. The apostle Paul encouraged a young pastor named Timothy, writing, “All Scripture is given by the inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
A disciplined study and application of spiritual wisdom and the “uncommon common sense” in Proverbs is a great beginning! Remember:
Any man can start a family, but a wise man follows God’s blueprint [the Scriptures] and builds a home.
Questions to consider –
1) How do believers build their families? (24:3a)
2) What is the foundation of a godly home? (24:3b)
3) What should fill a believer’s life [i.e., rooms; chambers]? (24:4)
* Remember, spiritual knowledge and discernment are acquired through the disciplined study of God’s Word, His Law, and Commandments.
Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith
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