A Bad Way to Start the New Year

(Proverbs 1:28 KJV)  Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me:

There can come a time when it is too late to “seek early (diligently NASB)” (7836).  Sincerity is not the final decider.  This would seem to be a statement contradicted later in Proverbs,

(Proverbs 8:17 KJV)  I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.

The difference is in the context and the hint is that they love Him.  In Chapter 1 the context is people who are living in rebellion and ignoring the reminders God has given.  In chapter 8 they are faithful and striving to do it God’s way. 

God can call us out of sin.  We can repent and see radical changes.  We can’t deliberately live like sons of hell until the last minute hoping to sneak in during the grace period.

So?  Remember that God does not play games.  Grace is not an over the counter remedy that you buy in case you feel sick some day.  Live in righteousness and know the joy of the Righteous One.