21 Day jumpstart

15 My son, if your heart is wise, my heart too will be glad. 16 My inmost being will exult when your lips speak what is right. 17 Let not your heart envy sinners, but continue in the fear of the LORD all the day. - Proverbs 23:15-17

I love the verses found in this proverb. I am reminded how the Father sees us and how we should reciprocate that same attitude towards our children and those we love. These verses describe a feeling of gladness when our Father sees His children showing wisdom in their actions. It also shows the immense joy He feels when they speak of things that are right. 

This begs the question, are we doing the same for our children and those who look up to us? Are we expressing joy and gladness when our children and those we lead are acting in wisdom and speaking in the truth. I can remember countless times when both my son and daughter have spoken truth into situations around them that needed it? I can recall the times they’ve found enough encouragement to share their faith with someone they’ve just met or someone the Lord had placed in their lives. Just this week, my adult son was sharing his faith at The Texas Rangers baseball game with the guy sitting next to him. My wife and I simply listened as he articulated what Jesus meant to him. It is moments like this that make it all so real and worth the investment. 

As you continue to read this proverb, it goes on to talk about not allowing our hearts to envy sinners but to continue living daily in the fear of The Lord. This is not a “frightened” fear but more in line with a reverent or respectful fear. It is a recognition of His goodness and righteousness. Charles Spurgeon said this about the fear of the Lord:

 “The fear of the Lord is a brief description for true religion. It is an inward condition, betokening hearty submission to our heavenly Father. It consists very much in a holy reverence of God, and a sacred awe of him. This is accompanied by a child-like trust in him, which leads to loving obedience, tender submission, and lowly adoration.” 

What an awesome teaching point to challenge us as men, husbands, fathers and leaders. Raise those around us up to chase after the goodness of our loving Father. Emulate for them what it looks like to act wisely and speak truthfully. Encourage them to do the same and to walk in a way that’s worthy of the gospel.

Be that person to those around you.

Is there someone you can pray for or encourage today? Let them know you are praying for them or make a point to schedule a time to connect with them. 

All scripture references come from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

You can learn more about Known Legacy or support its ministry at www.knownlegacy.org

These Devos are created in partnership between Trent Brown of C3 Church in Rowlett Texas and Bill Yuhasz.

trent@c3rowlett.com

bill@knownlegacy.org