Derek Smith, Lead Pastor LHBC
Proverbs 2:1-5
My son, if you receive my words
and treasure up my commandments with you,
2 making your ear attentive to wisdom
and inclining your heart to understanding;
3 yes, if you call out for insight
and raise your voice for understanding,
4 if you seek it like silver
and search for it as for hidden treasures,
5 then you will understand the fear of the Lord
and find the knowledge of God.
One of our favorite movies in the Smith house is National Treasure starring Nicolas Cage. We love all the history and the plot twists in the movie. They find the treasure map on the back on the Declaration of Independence, then follows one clue after another, one adventure after another, and one close call after another until they uncover the greatest treasure in the history of mankind. Just the thought that there might actually be a hidden treasure of that magnitude out there somewhere is super intriguing!
Solomon tells us here there is another treasure, and this is one is more valuable than anything money can buy. It’s the Word of God. Deep within the pages of Scripture we see the treasures of God’s wisdom, and only those who search diligently find them. Solomon compares them here to hidden treasure. Deep within the recesses of God’s Word are found golden nuggets of truth that transform the soul when applied to life. As Paul said in Romans 12:2 we are transformed by the renewing of our minds to the truth of God’s Word. So, in order to grow in Christ we must go on our own treasure hunt every day.
First, he says here we must view God’s commands as true treasure, so before we gain heavenly wisdom we must love and desire it above all else. Treasure means to see the Word of God as priceless and indispensable. He goes on to tell us how to dig for the hidden treasure. He says we must listen for it (ear attentive), turn our heart toward it (submission of the will), ask for it (prayer), and seek it (prioritizing growth in Christ above all). Wisdom comes not to the unintentional life. Walking in God’s ways of wisdom comes only to the person who diligently and intentionally seeks after it. Godly counsel from others is essential. Reading the Bible and meditating on it is essential. Scheduling meetings with mentors who can help us is also important.
So, let’s get the shovel out! Get out the map and follow it! There’s buried treasure to be found, and God promises to give it to those who go Nicolas Cage on it! I can promise you this: you’ll never find unsought treasure. So, don’t complain today about missing out on a deep walk with the Lord. See God’s commands as true eternal treasure and start digging! Deep within the sacred pages you will find the very treasure your soul is longing for!
PRAYER FOR TODAY:
Father God, forgive me for my complacent attitude at times toward your Word. I believe the treasures of Your wisdom are found within the pages of Scripture. Lord, show me your ways and teach how to live in a way that glorifies You as I read and meditate on Your truth. In Jesus name I pray, amen.
MEMORY VERSE OF THE WEEK:
Psalm 119:18
Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.