Read
13If you have good sense,
it will show when you speak.
But if you are stupid,
you will be beaten
with a stick.
14If you have good sense,
you will learn all you can,
but foolish talk
will soon destroy you.
15Great wealth can be a fortress,
but poverty
is no protection at all.
16If you live right,
the reward is a good life;
if you are evil,
all you have is sin.
17Accept correction,
and you will find life;
reject correction,
and you will miss the road.
Reflect
Continuing on the same theme the writer assumes the reader understands the definition of “good sense.” Good sense is based on the supporting pillars of wisdom’s house (chapter 9:1), or, as has already been defined, as a God centred worldview.
A person who knows the heart of God chooses words carefully after listening to various perspectives. Good sense often resides in others and is worth listening to. Good sense automatically filters everything through a “God lens” that puts everything into proper perspective – especially how things relate to God’s creation, including you and me.
We see this in the stories Jesus told where people listened intently and were offered hope. Those with common sense speak the same “language” as Jesus and bring wealth to the world around them. Foolishness only brings poverty and cannot bring protection when the world gets tough.
Listening to correction is part of wisdom’s role in your life. Accept it and life will be rewarding despite any circumstances. The journey becomes rich.
Respond
God of all creation, Speak to me through your Word and though others. Make my heart tender to receive your correction, instruction and counsel. Grant me the ability to develop common sense so I may make a positive difference in the world around me. I want the wealth that comes from you today. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Ted Seres
Ted Seres received his B.A. in Political Science at McMaster University in Hamilton. He earned an M. Div at the Lutheran Theological Seminary, Saskatoon. He is married to Susan and has two sons: Trenton and Brett. Ted is an ordained minister with the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada. He has been involved in pastoral ministry including church planting.