Joshua 21, Proverbs 5, 1 Timothy 4

The Framework. The Levites, since they were priests and not warriors or farmers, were given cities scattered throughout the Promised Land. They needed places to live among the rest of the people. An interesting note is that five of the six cities of refuge were given to the Levites. The priests were in charge of the law and a "slayer" would have to wait for the death of the current high priest before moving back home. So we can see how God designed His nation to be ruled by His laws, carried out by the priests who should be godly men. It was set up to run beautifully. Did it? not always~because people fail. But God gave them the tools and framework for optimal operation.

The Pattern. God gives us the pattern for wisdom in chapter four. But in chapter five we find that everyone doesn't follow the pattern. Because people fail. But optimal living only happpens when we stay within the framework and follow the pattern.

The Result. Proverbs five constrasts two lifestyles, and so does 1 Timothy four. Failure to live a disciplined life has disastrous consequences. But following the Lord's instructions ends in the salvation of many.

Joshua 20, Proverbs 4, 1 Timothy 3

Reading about the cities of refuge again reminds us that God planned for forgiveness. It also illustrates part of His character: a place to find hope for the future when our circumstances might do us in. Another truth shines up at me from this page. The people had to go along with God's plan and actually designate the cities as refuges. They had to agree to let those people live, no matter what emotions might overtake them. Sometimes following the will of God goes against our emotional instincts.

Living wisely requires discipline. Choose to hear instruction (i.e. read the Bible), memorize scripture, guard your heart so that you aren't carried away by your emotions, only speak what is honest and true, make sure your eyes only see what they should and be careful where you go. Then you will be tuned in to the Lord's frequency.

Pastors and deacons are to be wise, disciplined men. Their wives must be also. But really, shouldn't the descriptions found here fit us all?

The great mystery is how God became man. It is no mystery how to live in wisdom, or to know that we need to forgive. But we can only do it by the grace of God, through the Holy Spirit, imparted to us because of the mystery.

Embrace the Mystery.