What to Ask
Scripture Reading — Proverbs 30:1-9
“Two things I ask of you, Lord . . . : Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread.”
Describing Proverbs 30:7-8 as her favorite proverb, a thoughtful niece wrote: “It has helped to keep me grounded as I have moved through my career: ‘Am I honest at work, or am I starting to stretch the truth? Do I need the Lord, or do I disown him with my thoughts and actions?’” It’s really all about a life of integrity! Lies and dishonesty remain a temptation in a world focused on success.
She also added wisely, “When looking for a spouse, this proverb was a guide: ‘Does this man have God in his life? Is he honest?’” It’s important to ask such questions when we look for a marriage partner. Marriage calls for mutual dependence on God.
What’s more, having too much or too little endangers our ability and desire to live God-honoring lives with integrity. Affluence may occasion pride and self-reliance, while poverty can lead to stealing out of desperation. Having taught us to pray for our “daily bread,” Jesus warned about the allure of riches while showing compassion for the poor (Matthew 6:11; 19:21-23).
My niece concluded, “[This proverb] reminds me to ask, ‘Do I still need the Lord? Do I know who he is, or am I too busy to care?’ Lastly, it reminds me to be thankful. He has supplied my daily bread.”
Do you share these thoughts?
Father, we have so much to learn from each other as we desire to honor your name. Help us to be like Jesus, we pray. In his name, Amen.
About the author — George Vink
Pastor George Vink has served as a pastor in the Christian Reformed Church for more than 30 years in British Columbia, Montana, Michigan, and California. He and his wife, Shirley, have four married sons and nine grandchildren.
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