JUNE 21, 2012
Tempting Outside; Toxic Inside
Read: Proverbs 2:6-20
Then you will understand righteousness and justice, equity and
every good path. —Proverbs 2:9
An Australian study concluded that plainer cigarette packages
would make smoking less appealing to teens. In response,
the Australian government introduced legislation that would
require tobacco companies to replace color, logos, and
promotional text on cigarette packages with health warnings
and images of diseased lungs. In effect, the Marlboro Man
would give way to the Grim Reaper in an effort to reduce the
number of deaths caused by smoking. But cigarette packaging
isn’t the only thing that may be tempting on the outside with
a toxic product inside.
The Old Testament book of Proverbs urges us to carefully
consider the long-term results of all our choices. The recurring
phrase “in the end” (Prov. 5:4; 25:8; 29:21) is a warning to
look down the road and ask if what we’re attracted to will
ultimately lead to joy or sorrow, honor or disgrace, life or
death. “For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come
knowledge and understanding; He stores up sound wisdom
for the upright” (2:6-7).
The key to avoiding the tragic results of foolish choices is
embracing God’s wisdom as our guide through life. “Then
[we] will understand righteousness and justice, equity
and every good path” (v.9).
There’s so much wisdom to be learned,
So many ways for me to grow,
Lord, I would listen like a child,
And learn what You would have me know. —K. De Haan
Wisdom is understanding what’s really important.
Source: Our Daily Bread 2012
