Lean Times

(Proverbs 3:5 KJV)  Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

We must beware of the danger brought when we "lean" (8172) on our own "understanding" (998).  This is the only place in Proverbs that "lean" (8172) is used.  It means "to lean, support oneself."  If “crutch” were a verb it could be used here. 

The problem is not the idea of a crutch.  A crutch is simply an admission of weakness.  If you are unable to function without the crutch then it is also an admission of wisdom.  My classes are full of young people who refuse to wear their glasses.  Without them they can’t see.  I even have students sitting on the front row who claim they cannot see. 

The problem is when we build our own prosthetics.  Our wisdom and understanding make a poor crutch.  God’s make the perfect support. 

So?  You will lean.  That is because you are flawed.  Okay, we are flawed.  I, for one, plan on getting the best crutch on the market and lean heavy.  The best crutch is Jesus.