How to rate how wise your friends are

 

“Wise friends will rescue you from the Temptress – that smooth-talking Seductress

Who’s faithless to the husband she married years ago, never gave a second thought to her promises before God.

Her whole way of life is doomed; every step she takes brings her closer to hell.

No one who joins her company ever comes back, ever sets foot on the path to real living.

So – join the company of good men and women, keep your feet on the tried and true paths.

It’s the men who walk straight who will settle this land, the women with integrity who will last here.

The corrupt will lose their lives; the dishonest will be gone for good.”

 

Proverbs 2:16-22 The Message

 

These closing thoughts of wisdom from Solomon provide practical insight into daily living.

 

One take on the “Temptress” is the thoughts and imaginations that rocket into your mind while you endeavor to walk with God.

 

These thoughts covertly seek to entice you to abandon your discipline on your journey to a close personal relationship with the Godhead. They tempt you with good thoughts or ideas while appealing to your weakness.

 

The illusion of sweet treats quickly turns into the horror of dead-end streets and muddy, pot-holed paths that take you in the wrong direction.

 

 

You must realize the reality of an adversary whose sole desire is revenge against God. Since he cannot touch God directly, he goes after God’s prize creation—humanity.

 

Do not be deceived into believing that your earthly journey is without satanic interference.

 

Rest assured that your desire to draw close to God will catch his attention, and his efforts to stop you will be targeted and intentional.

 

They will come on you during moments of weakness—hence the temptation.

 

 

The beauty of friends

 

 

Solomon counsels that “wise” friends will rescue you. They can see behind the facade, pointing out the lurking adversary.

 

They will provide strength in your time of weakness.

 

Do not hesitate to accept their help.

 

Do not allow the lie that “I can get through this” to keep you from reaching out to them.

 

Do not give the adversary that kind of advantage over you.

 

Friends like that are vital in your journey.

 

They are part of the process and are instruments of grace on your journey.

 

 

Solomon offers the invitation

 

Solomon concludes his thoughts by extending an invitation.

“So – join the company of good men and women.”

You join this company by seeking their (wise friends) help. They will keep your feet on the “tried and true paths.”

They will come alongside you in your journey and be a source of strength and support.

They will help you reach your destination.

These guys are worthwhile company, wouldn’t you agree?

 

A close personal relationship with the Godhead is needed now more than ever.

 

A close personal relationship with the Godhead is a journey. I invite you to follow along. As I learn, I will pass it along so you, too, can learn. I hope that as you learn, you can pass it along so that I (and others) might learn.