Scripture-
Proverbs 23:12, 17 – 12 Apply your heart to instruction and your ear to words of knowledge.
17 Let not your heart envy sinners, but continue in the fear of the Lord all day.
Observation-
We are to be open to instruction and apply it from the heart. Listen to words of knowledge to gain wisdom not words from a fool. Fear the Lord always so we won’t desire what is a temporary gain acquired through sin.
Application –
I must continue to listen not to things of this world but to words of knowledge. I have to remain in the word daily and be open to teaching and instruction from fellow believers. This will keep me accountable and not rely on my own ways. Listening and receiving knowledge can lead to heart change and put forth into acts of service. Fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge and wisdom that allows for instruction. Verse 17 tells us to fear the Lord all day. Therefore if I fear the Lord at all times and am listening to knowledge for instruction I am less likely to be envious of someone else’s temporal gain. Whatever someone acquired deceitfully will fall through their hands and I need not be concerned with that but be focused on the Lord, His glory and expanding the Kingdom.
Prayer –
Father,
Thank you for your love, grace and mercy. Let me listen to words of knowledge and be open to instruction. May I fear you always and have my heart focused on your Kingdom and glory.