Proverbs 1:20-33
When you drive down the road, there are signs in place that direct traffic which must be obeyed in order for traffic to flow smoothly. The big red sign, with eight sides, says, “STOP”… So what do you think that means? … STOP! The black sign with a white arrow says “one way” which keeps us from turning into the wrong direction of traffic. All of these signs are there for our safety. There meanings are clear and concise, keeping everything running smoothly. Then there is the traffic director, who sees on coming traffic and knows different road conditions and situations that we cannot see from where we are on the road, but we trust him to guide us safely to where we need to be. But what would happen if we, for whatever reason, decided that our way of driving was better, and that we wanted to do it our own way without seeking counsel from the signs and ignoring the traffic director. It would most likely end up in mass chaos… a train wreck.
In life, we also have the Traffic Director and signs in place for our safety. He knows the road conditions ahead, and is directing us as well as protecting us from harm. However, we often ignore those “street signs” of wisdom from the Lord because we think that our way is better. All the while, the signs are practically screaming: “No! Slow down! Don’t turn there!” with our best interest in mind. The signs – being insight from the Lord and conviction of the Holy Spirit, are there for a reason.
The “wisdom” spoken of in Proverbs 1:20-33 is like the street signs. When we choose to do our own thing we are considered simpleminded and foolish. We listen to actual street signs because we fear getting into a car accident. In the same way, we should adhere to the wisdom of God because we fear Him. Proverbs 1:23 says, “Come and listen to my counsel. I’ll share my heart with you and make you wise.”
The traffic director does not stand in the street and make us guess where we are supposed to go. We receive his direction simply by coming to him. Obeying the Father is so much better than making our own rules and plans.
“… all who listen to me will live in peace, untroubled by fear of harms.”
-Proverbs 1:33
Will you obey the street signs?
Photography: @arikiam