Right Way!

Right Way!

Proverbs 22:4 AMP

[4] The reward of humility [that is, having a realistic view of one’s importance] and the [reverent, worshipful] fear of the Lord Is riches, honor, and life.

The world has its process for getting whatever it is it desires. There is way that seems right to the man who is under the control and influence of the systems of the world. It is hard to preach humility and the fear of God to someone who has not fully surrendered his heart to the Holy Spirit. The person can be the most down-to-earth or nicest person you have ever met; when it comes to the things of the Spirit, expect nothing less than the reflection of the inner condition of that man. It is even more interesting when you consider the man who is credited with the words of this verse above, who is Solomon. He was blessed with great wisdom by God, so much so that kings and queens came from all over the world to hear him speak, and they were not disappointed, as the bible makes clear. However, as we now know, the story did not end there. 

For all that God is and gives, there is a role for me to play. God does not force Himself on anyone, and He will not go against the exercise of my freewill. He is Sovereignity personified, and His kingdom brooks no opposition or resistance, yet He wants me to come to Him of my own accord and surrender my life to Him. He could compel me to, but where is the love in that? If He 'switches' me off and on as He pleases, He will not have any issue with total allegiance. However, as I have been made in His image and after His likeness, I get to consciously choose my reaction and response to His love. I love Him, not because I do not have a choice, but after reviewing all my options, I recognise His love for me, and I am willing to submit to His authority and discipline. It is by His process and preparation that I become all He wants me to be. Have you submitted your heart to the One who can make it tick the right way? 

Of course, the product of a life under God's control cannot be ignored. Riches, honour and life are promised and provided for all who walk in humility and the fear of God. The world also seeks riches and honour, but it does not want to submit to the process laid out in the verse above. Unfortunately, this is  one journey that you cannot defraud or skip, as all of us will have to give account of our journey at some point. I note that the end of the process, for those who submit to God, is life. This is key; with all that I get, it is not complete without the life that God gives. What does it profit a man, if he gains the whole world, but loses his soul? What is the use of the world's riches, if they cannot secure a spot in eternal dwellings with God? Is there anything else worth having? You give only that which you have; only in God do you get true riches, honor and life. Do you have Him? God's time of favour is here.