Do you remember hearing about the “birds and the bees” from one of your parents? It was an awkward moment as I remember, but it was information that I needed to know. My body was changing and knowing why made a big difference. Did I like that my childhood seemed like it was ending too soon? No, but I was anxious to be an adult because it looked like such fun.
Fast forward a number of years, and in adulthood I look back and long for the simpler days of being a child. I don’t think I’m alone here. In fact, there is a new verb I’ve heard young adults using, “adulting.” They say something like this – “Boy, I didn’t know adulting was going to be so hard” or “I’m not sure I’m a fan of adulting.” Each stage of life brings a new challenge to be sure.
Solomon is telling us in today’s reading to listen and obey. If we are even asking, “Why?” he answers like this – “Take hold of my instructions; don’t let them go. Guard them, for they are the key to life.” The key to life. That sounds important. Don’t we all want to figure it out and know why we are here.
We are also cautioned to not do what the wicked do. Don’t even think about it. First of all, we need to recognize when something is evil and wrong. God’s wisdom will help us do that. Even when we make the wrong choice, we know God is standing by ready for our cry for help. The problem is some of us don’t realize he is only a call away.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer, German Lutheran pastor and theologian (1906-1945) is quoted to have said, “Being a Christian is less about cautiously avoiding sin than about courageously and actively doing God’s will.” I like that sound of that. When we are more focused on being in God’s will, it will be easier to avoid sin because God would never encourage us to sin. His will for us would be pure and holy.
Have you ever strayed down the wrong path? How did it feel? Did you know it was the wrong way yet still venture on out of curiosity? Maybe you are a little lost right now. God’s path of wisdom is clearly marked in his word. Search for it. Ask him to show you the key to life.
Let’s pray … Lord, I come to you today, again amazed at how you have planned everything so magnificently. There is no glitch in your plan. Help me to ignore the enticement of the world and search for you. Open my eyes so I can see clearly your will for me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
