Choose Joyনমুনা

DAY 40 – WISDOM, FREEDOM, JOY

Reflection: In our last look at the ‘joy of wisdom’ as seen in the book of Proverbs, we learn that the ancient yet very modern idea of ‘doing your own thing’ is a false path to freedom and also joy.

In Proverbs 29:6, we find the contrast firstly of a person who is motivated to do evil –a word in this context that can range in meaning from bad, hurtful, and painful through to unpleasant, disagreeable, and unkind. Next to them is the person motivated to do what is right – just, lawful, innocent. Both find themselves living in the outcome of their decisions and actions.

The evildoer is caught or snared in their separation from God. Whether or not they appear to finish on top in a situation, the moral and spiritual result is to be trapped in the snare of their own miserable making. It’s not a pretty picture. The 'rightdoer', on the other hand, finds the release of joy. Regardless of whether what is good and right prevails in a particular circumstance, they find the loudness of joy escaping their lips, even as gladness fills their heart. Paul and Silas singing hymns in prison is a beautiful picture of this, and freedom soon follows. (Acts 16:22-30)

Proverbs 29:18 – a famous verse in Christian circles – first tells us of those who seek to live without beholding (spiritually, mentally) a revelation (divine communication) beyond themselves. An outcome of this life is to become naked or exposed, running wild, living without purpose or order. This casting off of restraint, doing our own thing, might seem like freedom, but it’s perishable and ultimately becomes the snare of verse 6.

In contrast, there’s a way to live that is blessed – that is, happy, joyful! It chooses the guidelines of God’s way, his law, his commands, the instruction of wisdom. It’s life in the everyday, always beholding a vision of One higher and greater, helping us step around the little snares and filling our mouths with praise and laughter. It’s God’s way through Jesus for you and me.

Choose joy: Being a Christian begins and continues with an ongoing revelation of Jesus and God’s love for us, that permeates every decision we make. Take a moment to lift up your eyes today and find his wonder afresh.