December 31, 2019 – Proverbs 15:29-31.

The Lord is far from the wicked, but He hears the prayer of the righteous. The light of the eyes rejoices the heart, and good news refreshes the bones. The ear that listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise. Proverbs 15:29-31.

With the light in our eyes, we can encourage others to rejoice.  It is said that our eyes are show our soul and our hearts. Anger and hate cannot be hidden.  Good news refreshes the bones. Indeed, Good News puts energy in our steps.

Indeed, in Luke 1:19, the Angel Gabriel visited with Zechariah about his son John who would be born.  And the angel answered him, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news.“   Indeed, later in Romans 10:15, And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!”  

Listening to the Good News of Jesus will give us life and wisdom. How are the ears important?  So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ. Romans 10:17.

Those who ignore instruction from others never learn, but those who listen gain intelligence and understanding.  Listening to the Lord brings wisdom and humility.  What does God teach about the humble person? Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.  James 4:10.

How can we attain the state of humility before the Lord?  Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.  Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.  Philippians 2:3-4.  

Whoever ignores instruction despises himself, but he who listens to reproof gains intelligence. The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom,  and humility comes before honor. Proverbs 15:32-33.