“There is no room for fear, but there is space for an abundance of caution.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – December 21, 2024
One who is wise is cautious and turns away from evil, but a fool is reckless and careless. Proverbs 14:16, ESV
I need your prayers. Recently, one of my children has been deemed worthy by the state authorities to legally operate an automobile, so long as I’m in the car with them. It is this necessity of my presence which necessitates your intercessions, for I have rarely faced a more terrifying situation. This seems to be one of those situations that no one can truly prepare you for, and all that a parent can do is say their prayers and buckle up!
All kidding aside, my child is proving to be a very responsible and attentive young driver, and it has been a joy to offer guidance and instruction as best I am able. As was drilled into me by my father, I’ve sought to offer one bit of advice every chance that I get. “I’m not worried about you. It’s the other drivers that make me nervous.” It is my goal to instill a defensive mindset, cautiously navigating the roads with great care, looking out for the foolish and reckless driver. And in truth, the key, it seems to me, is not only to keep an eye out for them, but to expect and anticipate their presence. Assume you are surrounded by fools on every side, and you won’t be surprised!
These are wise words when learning to drive a car, yet they are equally wise words by which we can all live our lives. Throughout the book of Proverbs, such as in today’s verse from Proverbs 14:16, caution and the avoidance of evil is praised as the way of wisdom, whereas reckless and careless living is revealed for what it truly is: a foolish path that leads to ruin.
No matter where you find yourself today or what season you are in, there is great wisdom in living a cautious life. Now, this is key, a cautious life is different than a fearful life. In the Christian life, there is no room for fear, but there is space for an abundance of caution. Though Christ has conquered sin and death, evil still lurks in our midst, and we are wise to proceed with caution, keeping an eye out for the countless temptations and distractions that hastily and recklessly draw us away from the straight and narrow.
While we may often regret decisions made in haste, rarely do we lament a cautious and discerning life. So, choose today to take your time and intentionally and carefully learn to walk in the way of the Lord and in his abundant wisdom.
Prayer
Father, though we may be surrounded on all sides, we are never afraid, for you are with us. Help us to discern your nearness today, and to proceed with cautious discernment and carefully placed steps, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Application
What does it look like for you to proceed with caution today?
Related Reading
Proverbs 19:2; Matthew 10:16; James 1:19
Worship Resource
Matt Boswell, Matt Papa, Cochren & Co.: His Mercy is More
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