2 Wisdoms: God’s — Man’s

5/27/24

The journey continues; the quest to get a greater grip on the wisdom of the Lord as set in contrast to the wisdom of the world in which we live. If I can. It’s easy for the two “wisdoms” to run together in such a manner as to give credit incorrectly. Take the perspective that follows, of instance.

When realizing how I wished or prayed for certain things in years past and then saw some semblance of that thing show up in my life I can now see why people write things concerning the principle, “you are what you think you are.” Thus, I partly agree with the call placed upon those desiring to better themselves; be it in business, in a sport, a relationship or whatever, it can be a valuable tool for gain by always thinking in terms of what’s necessary in one’s life to become better. Though in the process of one beginning to “think and grow rich,” as the book title says, seldom is this a straight line upward and onward. It doesn’t mean the principle is wrong, it means we live in the weakness of the flesh and form great desires to rise above a present situation. (aside: I always though the book “Great Expectations” should have been titled, “Too Great an Expectation!”)

The borrowed phrase from Prov.23:7 is, in its full context, not at all about practicing the principle for gain, as in the above paragraph. It is instead, taught for being aware of the evil that can surround one. In other words, “you are what you think you are” is not always positive. In which case, better to think on the things we’re taught which are right, good, and just. We find those things listed in Paul’s letter to us: in Phi.4:4-9—the greater good thoughts! Coming back to these verses later.

Seeing how Scripture defines the principle mentioned in the first paragraph doesn’t mean that the modern application of it is 100% incorrect. It does show how mankind makes grave errors in the handling of God’s wisdom, though. Why wouldn’t the schoolmasters of all things progressive, when pulling out the simple “think and grow rich” posing for people seeking success, keep in mind other words of the Lord’s wisdom and use even more obvious positive thinking principles and purposeful living verses from Scripture and say all these things correctly?( again, see Phi.4:4-9)…..Oh, if they did that they would have to give The Lord God Almighty the credit for it! But, if that was done in honesty, how could they sell their books for a profit, sell as many million copies, receive the great adulation of the world, and retire young and rich?! 

So, they do it the way they do it, and the overwhelming percentage of those who buy the books and watch the movies (The Secret) never give the glory to the ONE to which the glory belongs.

Let’s examine some Scripture on the subject: The Lord approached this very issue with some men whom He instructed to sell out (found in Matthew thru Acts 7), and have all things common and trust in Him. Yet, he taught the same principles found on the bookshelves about being successful. Look at these words: Luke 21:12-15. You say, “yeah, but that was the 12 Apostles!” Yes, it was. but if one will make a simple spiritual application using the words of Christ as you looked at them, can you not see why Paul would write to you saying Phi.4:19. Go back now and start at 4:12 and read straight through to v.19—can’t you see these premises and provisions in the same light as nearly all positive thinking rallies? 

Let’s try another: James 1:5,6, 8, 17. Yes, when you read them, you’ll say, “James was talking to the 12 tribes and they were going to go through the great tribulation!” You, would surely be correct. But, take each verse by the words, word by word, and tell me point blank, is God kidding? or are these truly the attributes of God toward His creation. Of course, they are His attributes and He never kids around!

You see our problem is this: we, you and me, we make a plan and then with our plan securely in tow, we say.”Oh, Lord! bring down thy blessings upon us as you promised!” Instead of this way, what better way comes to mind so that you can make a purer application of these things you have found the Scripture to declare, being the spiritual man of 1 Cor.2:9-16?

Let’s start with this: Study to Show Thyself Approved Unto God, A Workman That Needeth Not To Be Ashamed, rightly dividing The Word Of Truth. In case you didn’t know, that verse is 2 Tim.2:15, and it is exactly written to you and me in todays world, and bear in mind all the bible is written for us, but is not all written to us!

Here’s another consequential verse for you and me: For We Walk By Faith, Not By Sight, 2 Cor.5:7, also written directly to us today. This might  make us examine what we must have (see), rather than just walk on.

Oh, here’s another even better one: And God Is Able To Make All Grace Abound Toward You; That Ye, Always Having All Sufficiency in All Things, May Abound To Every Good Work, found in 2 Cor.9:8. Now this one is actually a straightforward promise of God based on the previous 2 verses, verse 6 & 7 are clearly the Lord bestowing a promise to us whom He knows—2 tim.2:19 (never forget this verse!)

May I suggest we all learn the best verses to apply for our every day lives and live according to God’s Holy word? May the Lord bless your study for Him to bless your lives. …And be as reasonably positive in your thinking as is possible.

Thanks for reading, the Elder