Day Sixty-Seven
God's Mysteries Revealed (Read Proverbs 25:2-15)
25 These are more proverbs of Solomon, collected by the advisers of King Hezekiah of Judah.
2 It is God's privilege to conceal things
and the king's privilege to discover them.
3 No one can comprehend the height of heaven, the depth of the earth,
or all that goes on in the king's mind!
4 Remove the impurities from silver,
and the sterling will be ready for the silversmith.
5 Remove the wicked from the king's court,
and his reign will be made secure by justice.
6 Don't demand an audience with the king
or push for a place among the great.
7 It's better to wait for an invitation to the head table
than to be sent away in public disgrace.
Just because you've seen something,
8 don't be in a hurry to go to court.
For what will you do in the end
if your neighbor deals you a shameful defeat?
9 When arguing with your neighbor,
don't betray another person's secret.
10 Others may accuse you of gossip,
and you will never regain your good reputation.
11 Timely advice is lovely,
like golden apples in a silver basket.
12 To one who listens, valid criticism
is like a gold earring or other gold jewelry.
13 Trustworthy messengers refresh like snow in summer.
They revive the spirit of their employer.
14 A person who promises a gift but doesn't give it
is like clouds and wind that bring no rain.
15 Patience can persuade a prince,
and soft speech can break bones.
"If God were small enough to be understood, He would not be big enough to be worshipped." ~ Evelyn Underhill
Reflection:
Proverbs 25:2 reveals a profound truth about God's nature and our role in His creation. God, in His infinite wisdom, chooses to conceal certain things, not to keep them hidden forever but to invite us into a journey of discovery. This divine mystery doesn't intend to frustrate us; instead, it invites us into a deeper relationship with Him. God delights in seeing His children seek, question, and explore the truths He has set before us. It's like a spiritual game of hide and seek. Have you ever played hide and seek with little kids? One hides in the closet, whispers, "Whatever you do, don't look in the closet," and then giggles.
Why does God conceal things? One reason is that the search itself draws us closer to Him. When we actively seek God's wisdom and understanding, we engage in a relationship-building process. We develop patience, perseverance, and trust as we navigate the path He sets before us. Through this process, we learn to depend on God, acknowledging that true wisdom and insight come from Him alone. Our ego does everything to prevent us from discovering God's truth.
The role of a king, or anyone in a position of authority or responsibility, is to search out these concealed matters. This principle suggests that wisdom and knowledge are not simply given but earned through effort, curiosity, and dedication. God honors the seeker, who is not content with superficial understanding but digs deeper to uncover the hidden gems of divine truth. In this pursuit, we find answers, a more profound sense of purpose, and alignment with God's will. Wouldn't it be refreshing to hear our country's leaders state they are discerning God's will for a spiritual solution to our country's needs?
Consider God's hidden things as treasures waiting for you to discover. Just as an explorer seeks uncharted lands, God invites us to explore the depths of His Word, creation, and heart. Every revelation we gain is a glimpse into the mind of our Creator, a piece of the puzzle that makes up the more incredible picture of His love and purpose for us.
God reveals His mysteries to those who earnestly seek Him. Jesus Himself said, 7 "Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. (Matthew 7:7, NLT). This promise assures us that our efforts to understand and know God more will not be in vain. As we pursue His wisdom, we become more like Him, reflecting His image more clearly in our daily lives.
Let this verse inspire you to approach your relationship with God with awe and wonder. Be encouraged to ask questions, seek understanding, and dig deeper into His Word. It's okay to ask questions. Embrace the journey of discovery, knowing that with each step, you are drawing closer to the One who holds all mysteries and wisdom.
Reflection Questions:
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the privilege of seeking and discovering Your mysteries. Help us to approach Your Word and our relationship with You with a spirit of curiosity and a desire to know You more deeply. Give us the wisdom and discernment to uncover the truths You have set before us. May our pursuit of Your hidden treasures draw us closer to You and transform us into Your likeness. In Jesus' name, Amen.
May God bless your hearing, understanding, and application of today's wisdom.