Proverbs 4:1-2

Scripture: 

Proverbs 4:1-2 - Hear, O sons, the instruction of a father, And give attention that you may gain understanding, For I give you sound teaching; Do not abandon my instruction (NASB). 

Observation:

"You paid for the whole hammer didn't you?" Words that my father-in-law, a master carpenter, said to me while we were working on a deck together. I wasn't sure what he meant by that. So, I had to ask. He repeated what he said. "You paid for the whole hammer didn't you?" I replied, "Yes." He then went on to say, "Well, why not use the whole hammer? Tom, you're using only part of the handle. Slide your hand down to the end of the handle and try hitting the nails now!" As I tried it, I learned that it took less strength to drive the nails in and was less stress on my elbow and forearm. It was a valuable lesson learned. We must be willing to learn from those who have gone before us, to learn not only the secrets to driving nails, but also about the lessons of life. Today's scripture shares a good point that seems to be lost in today's day and age. We should give attention so that we may gain understanding! Why not listen to those who have gone before us? They want to share it with us. The question remains, are we listening?  

Application:

• Personal Application: Continue spending time with the Lord daily. Sow righteousness and reap the fruit of God's unfailing love.
• Family Devotional: Read this chapter to your family. Ask them if anything spoke to them as you read. Talk about their answers and show them that one important aspect of this chapter is that we continue to spend time with the Lord and keep our hearts focused on His plans and purposes. Pray for them.

TOM SEMBER has been involved in ministering to men for over 20 years. He is an ordained minister with the AG in the NY Ministry Network.