THE CONCERN OF THE RIGHTEOUS Wednesday April 22, 2015
Text: Proverbs 30:7 – 9 Memory verse v 8
Here is the concern of Agur (30:1), who wants to live righteously. His prayers and purposes in life are here expressed (30:7, 8). His desire was to live outside falsehood and lies because God hates falsehood (Psalm 119:118; Jeremiah13:25). He also desired neither riches nor poverty. He wanted an average and moderate life.
Having too much money can be dangerous, but so can having too little. Being poor, in fact, can be hazardous to spiritual as well as physical health. On the other hand, being rich is not the answer. Jesus warned that rich people have trouble getting into God’s Kingdom (Matthew 19:23, 24). Therefore like Paul, we can learn how to live whether we have little or plenty (Philippians 4:12), but neither poverty nor riches is the best.
What is your concern as a Christian in respect of living a life that pleases God? The most desirable outward condition is that of a moderate competency; free from the temptations of wealth and of poverty. Daily bread keeps us properly trusting in the continuity of God’s benevolence (Exodus 16:4; Matthew 6:11). This prayer of Agur and our Lord’s Prayer has some similarities. If we are removed from vanity and lies; if we are interested in the pardoning love of Christ, and have him for our portion; if we walk with God, then we shall have all we can ask or think, as to spiritual things.
Food for Thoughts: Agur prayed for a middle state, that he might be kept at a distance from temptations. What kind of prayer do you say?
Prayer: Lord, keep me at a distance from temptations of riches and poverty in Jesus name, Amen.
