Pleasant Ways

Long life is in [wisdom’s] right hand;in her left hand are riches and honor.Her ways are pleasant ways,and all her paths are peace.She is a tree of life to those who embrace her;those who lay hold of her will be blessed.

Proverbs 3:16-18 (NIV)

The central phrase that grabs my attention is this: “Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace.”

This is a good way to live. It is pleasant—pleasant for yourself and pleasant for others who are around you. This reminds me that it is not wise to be impatient; it is not wise to be rude or harsh or critical of others. It is wise to be a peacemaker; it is wise to be kind.

Being wise is more than just being smart or skillful at life.

James gives us an excellent and clear description of godly wisdom that shows that it is both practical and wonderful. “The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy” (James 3:17, NKJV).

And so, in conclusion, dear ladies, choose wisdom—because all her ways are pleasant ways and all her paths are peace.

Make It Personal . . . Live It Out!

Some people view wisdom as a dusty old thing, antiquated, good only for old people with nothing much to do. No! Wisdom opens wonderful doors and takes you on journeys where few travel. Wisdom fills your heart with the pure, simple, exhilarating joy that comes when you just do the right thing. Wisdom from above is “full of mercy,” for instance. So, just for the joy of it, try this out: Is there someone in your world who does not deserve mercy? Someone who has been cranky or rude? Will you choose to show mercy?

Let’s Pray

Lord, please give me a tender heart to forgive. Help me say one pleasant word or do one kind deed. I know you love the difficult people in my life; help me to love them too.

One Year Bible Reading

Genesis 31:17–32:12; Matthew 10:24–11:6; Psalm 13:1-6; Proverbs 3:16-18