Choice or Blame

(Proverbs 29:3 KJV)  Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father: but he that keepeth company with harlots spendeth his substance.

“Wisdom” (2451) is one of the hardest treasures to pass on to the next generation.  Money is easy.  Looks are automatic.  Bad habits seem to be a given.  Wisdom, on the other hand, seems to be a constant uphill battle.

Part of the fault lays on the parents’ heads.  You have to have wisdom to pass it on and too many adults are busy chasing their own “harlots” (2181) to gather any true wealth.  The harlots can be figurative or literal but they keep us from spending time in the word, prayer and mediation.  Those who have some wisdom often don’t live consistent lives before their children.  It is hard to imitate what you have never seen.

Notice, though, that the blame is not being laid on the father.  It is the son who is making the decisions and following the path of sensuality.  We are big on laying blame today.  Everyone is a victim.  Everyone needs a counselor or analyst.  Therapy is the go-to drug of choice.  While God encourages us to be supportive of one another and forgive those who sin against us, we are still responsible for our own lives.

So?  You know the old line about what to do when life gives you lemons.  Keep in mind that the grace of God is waiting to fill the gaps in your life and restore purpose and joy.  Even believers can get off track.  Reboot and reload if that is the order of the day.