S) "18 Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained,
But happy is he who keeps the law."
Proberbs 29:18 (NASB)
O) The first translation of this verse I learned, was the King James Version. That translates the second part, "the people perish," which has a much more foreboding sound to it. It's not really translating that word, though, so much as it is interpreting implications. The Old Testament had many instances of unrestrained people, and one of the clearest examples of the verse above, is when Moses was on Mount Sinai, in Exodus 32. Where it says the people were out of control, that word is literally like getting loose of control, or becoming unrestrained. The people had quickly and easily lost sight of what they were doing, who they were following, and why they were there (apparently because they literally couldn't see Moses when he was upon the mountain). I do appreciate the more literal translation of this verse, though, because a lack of vision isn't always a death-sentence, per se. All sin leads to death, but that law of death is broken in Christ. Even so, a clear vision of God's ways, of His purpose, of His love, instills a desire for obedience that often starts with self-restraint, or self-control. That leads to the happiness that this verse describes in the second line.
A) When I was searching Old Testament passages about lack of vision, I came across Amos 8:11, and I was reminded how blessed I am to have the Bible. I can read the very words of God anytime I want (which also reminds me how blessed I am to live in this country, when I do). I can't neglect that, or take it for granted. As much as I read my Bible, I must still keep my eyes fixed on God, on His words, on His glory and purpose. This takes determination, it takes self-restraint, but it's all worth it. I don't fear death. In Christ, the curse of sin is broken. My mistakes don't have to kill me. Even so, my heart's desire is to honor my Lord. It's just an added blessing that His ways lead to life. The only pursuit of happiness that ever succeeds, is obedience because of the love of Christ.
A) When I was searching Old Testament passages about lack of vision, I came across Amos 8:11, and I was reminded how blessed I am to have the Bible. I can read the very words of God anytime I want (which also reminds me how blessed I am to live in this country, when I do). I can't neglect that, or take it for granted. As much as I read my Bible, I must still keep my eyes fixed on God, on His words, on His glory and purpose. This takes determination, it takes self-restraint, but it's all worth it. I don't fear death. In Christ, the curse of sin is broken. My mistakes don't have to kill me. Even so, my heart's desire is to honor my Lord. It's just an added blessing that His ways lead to life. The only pursuit of happiness that ever succeeds, is obedience because of the love of Christ.
P) Father, open my eyes, that I would keep a clear vision of who You are, and who I am in Christ. I don't ever want to lose sight of who You are, or Who I am following as a disciple of Christ, or why I am here. I am here for Your glory. I am here to point others to the Way, that they might find happiness in relationship with You, Lord. Thank You for the grace and mercy of the gospel. Help me to dwell on that constantly. Restrain me from my own sinful flesh, and help me to deny myself, submitting to Your authority, trusting in Your love. Let your will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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