December 12
PROVERBS 22
26 Be not one of those who give pledges,
who put up security for debts.
27 If you have nothing with which to pay,
why should your bed be taken from under you?
28 Do not move the ancient landmark
that your fathers have set.
29 Do you see a man skillful in his work?
He will stand before kings;
he will not stand before obscure men.
– Proverbs 22:26-29
PROVERBS 22 ON HONING SKILLS
A poem by ILMA inspired by these verses
When we are given gifts, talents and abilities
We need to hone them so we can see all possibilities
If we continue to grow our skills and workmanship
We show our gratitude to God’s loving generosity.
In verse 29, we see the benefits of being a skilled man. When a man develops his gifts whether it is technical, creative, mechanical or literary skills, it is not only him who benefits but also the community and the environment he is in. In James 1:17, he says that every good and perfect gift comes from the Father of Lights. These good gifts could include skills that make a person useful to his family, community, church and his country.
As we practice and grow our abilities, talents and skills, we are also thanking our heavenly father for such gifts given to us. Remember our mandate as humans is to be fruitful and multiply as Genesis 1:28 says. It is not only with pro-creating human beings, but also filling the earth with the goodness of God from honing all that he has given us. What would God say if we never use any gifts that he has given us? Wouldn’t it be a waste? In 1 Corinthians 12:7-10, we also hear of the many different gifts that the Holy Spirit gives us and we are to use them to edify God and build up the body of Christ.
REFLECTION
• In Luke 12:48, how can we apply the concept of honing skills?
