Knowing, Honoring, Dishonoring, and Acknowledging God

(Encouraged reading: Proverbs 30)

v. 1-4 Knowing God

   “Surely I am more stupid than any man, and do not have the understanding of a man. I neither learned wisdom nor have knowledge of the Holy One.” Proverbs 30:2-3

     This chapter’s opening contrasts Proverbs 1:7. Agur recognizes his lack of understanding is a result of not knowing God, thus not having the fear of the Lord. He inquires who controls the world, and he questions further not only for His name but the name of His Son.

v. 5-10, 32-33 Honoring God

     In Agur’s quest for the truth, he recognizes the purity of God’s Words and that nothing should be added or taken from them. He wants to live honestly. He requests to have neither riches nor poverty but desires to live dependent on the Lord. Agur also encourages the reader to live in meekness and with self-control.

v. 11-14 Dishonoring God

    Every generation has evil doers; Agur does not shy from calling out the wicked generation. Sadly, our generation fits all these descriptions: detests advice from elders, thinks evil is good and good is evil, is marked by pride, speak words that wound and kill.

v. 15-31 Acknowledging God

     Agur lists some of the wonderful, incomprehensible, exceedingly wise, and majestic aspects of creations, as well as some things that are perturbing. From the ant and the locust to the eagle and the lion, Agur can see the hand of the Creator upon all.   

Application:

    One way to know God better is by exploring creation. The knowledge gained through observing this world should lead us to stand in awe of the Creator. Do you see His fingerprints in creation? Do you have a fear of the Lord which leads to knowledge and wisdom?  

Prayer:

     Lord, may we learn to fear You and acknowledge that You alone are worthy of such reverence. Thank You for the ability to learn more about You and Your power through watching Your Creation.