“Leave your simple ways and you will live; walk in the way of insight.”
The simple life is espoused as a good way to live throughout Scripture. Years ago, one of my best friends told me that he thought Scripture recommended having a little land, a garden, and a family. He said this was the definition of being blessed. I certainly like the sound of that. It took a while, but I’m now certain I’m there—except my garden is in the produce department at Publix. In this verse, we are commanded to leave the “simple ways.” At its root, the meaning of the word here is better understood as ‘foolish’, or even worse, as one of the weak. In other words, God wants His people to “be strong.” I love this challenge. Who wouldn’t? Being wise and strong sums up a large part of of God’s heart for His children. Strength is not just about our physical condition; in fact, that is the least important aspect. Insight into God’s ways will make us bold and steady as we move forward in life. It frees us to cast off the things that the average person gets caught up in—things that interfere with their ability to follow God in power. The foolish ways lead to confusion, ineffectiveness, wasted potential, and eventually death. Today, be bold and powerful in pursuing God’s plan. #BeTheEdge
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,” Hebrews 12:1 NIV
