The greater part of the book of Proverbs is wise “one-liners.” Well, they are actually “two-liners” that follow the format: “This does this, but that does that” — comparing two different views of life or at least with one line clarifying the other. One of the many wonderful strengths of “The Message” is how beautifully Peterson handles the parables, giving them new life for his readers. Today, I am reminded that all the good things in life can be attributed to the Lord. He is truly the “Blesser” giving us so much to enjoy. One of the lies of the Garden of Eden is that humans can pull themselves up to God’s level and thus “bless themselves” in doing things our own way. The truth is that nothing I do on my own to create a satisfied, happy life can equal what God wants to do for me. Getting my own way won’t give me a rich life. Instead, I will have spent my assets on a bag of worthless rocks. It is only when I realize that God is the only One who can make my life worth living and that he very much desires to do just that that I have a hope of living the “rich life.” Sometimes, I have to simply accept God’s blessings in a sincere spirit of thanksgiving and not try to do it my own way.
Tags: Book of Proverbs
