To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, judgment, and equity; Proverbs 1:3 (NKJV)
The main verb in Proverbs 1:3 is RECEIVE.
Receive: seize, take
What is to be seized?
- Instruction: discipline, chastening, correction
- Wisdom: have insight, comprehension
- Justice: righteousness, as ethically right
- Judgment: matters of justice, standard
- Equity: evenness, uprightness; in ethical sense, uprightness, equity, as taught in the school of wisdom
When I think of the word seize, I think of grab onto with strength, not wanting to let go. As I read the list of what I am to seize, I had to stop at the first one, "Instruction". The order of these words is important as they build upon each other.
The meaning of instruction isn't just hearing or reading and manual. No, this word has the meaning of being disciplined and corrected. I am to seize being disciplined? Yes, when I am confronted with my sin, then I can confess my sins and then have a closer relationship with God Almighty.
Once I am willing to accept and seize Instruction (discipline), then my heart can be ready to seize Wisdom. Comprehension of Truth.
As I comprehend the Truth, I'll righteousness—ethically right actions will begin to follow. Then I'll have a clear understanding and be ready to seize judgment—God's standard. Then the uprightness in the ethical sense will be grasped.
It all begins with a heart permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG). For once I have a reverence for God, I'll be willing to accept His discipline and make headway on seizing the full Truth!
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