Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds
Proverbs 27:23 (NIV)
Careful Attention
The Canadian Safety Council advises this: “never leave food unattended on the stove. It doesn’t matter if it’s just for a minute, or for a quick phone call, or for a knock on the door, or even being caught up with children. Cooking requires your full attention because a fire can be sparked very quickly and spread even quicker. Be proactive and watch your food so in the event of an unexpected fire, you’re able to act quickly and decisively before it escalates.”
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While the Bible at its foundation is a library of books that will lead us to Jesus and the experience of eternal life, it is in many ways very practical. It teaches the followers of Jesus how to live in such a way that they enjoy the blessings of life here on earth, as we prepare for an eternity with Jesus Christ. King Solomon had the gift of wisdom and so noticed practical everyday things as he examined the world around him. For example, in Proverbs 27:23 he wrote: “Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds.” In the next few verses, he goes on to say that none of us are promised tomorrow, so we should take care of what we have now because it might help us in the future if challenging times come. He uses the picture of the sheep providing us with clothing and goats the price of a field. God cares deeply about the practical things in our lives. He gives us the wisdom and knowledge that will help us in the future if we are wise with what He has provided for us now.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley