Read Proverbs 29:14-27

This morning our focus is upon Proverbs 29:18, "Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he." 

The verse before us is interesting in that the primary manner in which I have heard it explained or presented is incorrect.  It is usually presented with a focus on evangelism and the fact that without soul-winning people die and go to Hell.  Now, let me make it clear, I am all for evangelism and doing our best to keep people out of Hell, but this verse is about a lack of revelation (vision), and people who lack the preached Word will perish, which, in this context, is not speaking of perishing in Hell but rather living life without restraint, which brings ruin to one's life.  The word translated as “perish” has the sense of ‘unrestrained’ or ‘let loose.’  Therefore, the context implies a vision for the Word of God is missing.  

With that being understood, the latter portion of the verse makes perfect sense.  "...but he that keepeth the law, happy is he."  He who obeys the Word of God finds true happiness. To ignore the Word leads to confusion and trouble. To obey God’s Word brings blessings. The word translated as happy is most frequently rendered as ‘blessed.’ The overarching principle is that obedience of the Word of God brings blessing and happiness. To wander therefrom produces the opposite. Notice the emphasis upon keeping the Law which is obedience thereto. It is one thing to agree with God’s Word. It is another thing to obey it. The focal point of blessing throughout the Bible is obedience to God, especially as recorded in His Word.

May your life be blessed, as you keep the law of God.  And don't ever forget, "Where there is no vision, the people perish..."

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  How does today’s society demonstrate a lack of vision from the Word of God?

2.  How do you feed your soul upon the Word of God?  Are you fasting or feasting when it comes to spending time in the Word?

3.  How does obeying the Word of God and happiness go together?

4.  Does it matter how much of the Bible you know, if it isn’t being lived?  What are some areas of life you could work on to become more obedient to the Word?