Friday, February 21, 2025  

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Today's Scripture
Proverbs 3:11–20

My child, do not despise the Lord’s discipline
or be weary of his reproof,
for the Lord reproves the one he loves,
as a father the son in whom he delights. Happy are those who find wisdom,
and those who get understanding,
for her income is better than silver,
and her revenue better than gold.
She is more precious than jewels,
and nothing you desire can compare with her.
Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor.
Her ways are ways of pleasantness,
and all her paths are peace.
She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her;
those who hold her fast are called happy. The Lord by wisdom founded the earth;
by understanding he established the heavens;
by his knowledge the deeps broke open,
and the clouds drop down the dew. (NRSV)

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Reflection

“Ignorance is bliss.” Is it really? Would you really rather be in the dark or be in the know?

People often say “Ignorance is bliss” when they are frustrated or awestruck by someone else’s “ignorant” action. It can also imply some level of condescension — that you, the observer, perhaps know better than the one who is in ignorant bliss.

Now, the question of “Would you rather be in ignorant bliss or be in the know” takes on another dimension of importance when examined in light of this passage.

Proverbs highlights the beauty and worth of the Lord’s ways — the path of wisdom.

Wisdom is more profitable and more precious. Wisdom brings the true riches and honor.

Because of love, the Lord will not let us dwell in ignorant bliss, which is short-lived and has no depth. Because of love, the Lord will insist that we seek wisdom, that which far exceeds material wealth and affords us the pathway to eternal life.

Let us relinquish our tendency towards the easier, seemingly shortcut to fleeting happiness and follow the path to wisdom and true love of the Lord.

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Prayer
Gracious and loving God, thank you for insisting on the path of wisdom. Be patient with me when I resist your directions and try to be lazy. Be ever loving with me, and forgive my childish way. Walk with me and guide me on the path of your wisdom. I pray trusting and believing in you. Amen.

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Written by Toni Yang, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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