Read Proverbs 19:1-15

Proverbs 19:8, "He that getteth wisdom loveth his own soul: he that keepeth understanding shall find good."  

Have you ever heard someone say about another, "He is his own worst enemy”?  Life isn't about the world being against you as much as it is about the choices you make.  This proverb speaks to the fact that a person who gets a heart (wisdom) loves his own soul.  David Sorenson, in his commentary, Understanding the Bible states:  

"Amidst a number of proverbs illustrating the dismal character of sinful human nature shines a brilliant gem. The initial phrase literally reads, ‘He that gets (i.e., has) a heart loveth his own soul.’ The thought (in the preceding context of the darkness of human nature) is how having a heart for others, in reality, is love for one’s own soul.  Having a heart for others comes back in the same coin. Likewise, one who observes (i.e., keeps) understanding surely will find good.  An understanding heart will be compassionate. It brings good to both the one in need as well as the one who is compassionate." 

Have you built a wall around yourself in which the person inside the wall is the main character?  Or do you understand life from the perspective that life is about God and others?  If you have a heart for others, they will have a heart for you!

May God bless you as you seek to have a heart for others.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  What will keep you from being your own worst enemy?

2.  How do choices impact your journey?  

3.  Do you have a heart for others?  Explain.  Do you have a heart for God? Explain.

4.  How do wisdom and understanding influence your life?