This passage
in Psalm 112 is a wonderful description of a righteous man...or woman. He is
blessed because he has respect (fear of) for the Lord. Maybe it is because he
is blessed that he can help others—graciously lending them something from his
resources…his money, belongings, knowledge or time. Being gracious about
lending someone something is good for both the lender and the borrower. If the
lender makes a big deal about lending something, then it will make the borrower
uncomfortable. When the lender is gracious, the borrower can feel respected and
valued. Jesus gave us principles for lending…but love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in
return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High;
for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men. Luke 6:35. Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn
away from him who wants to borrow from you. Matthew 5:42. Are you a
gracious lender discreetly allowing someone to borrow something from you? The
point here is not really about lending or borrowing, but about being graciously
discreet. Not calling attention to other’s needs, but meeting them in a
respectful way.
Training Tip – I don’t know of any instance that someone borrowed
something from Jesus, but He certainly generously and graciously gave of His
time, knowledge and energy. Children need to be told not to repeat private
matters and to listen to their parents. My
son, give attention to my wisdom, incline your ear to my understanding; that
you may observe discretion and your lips may reserve knowledge. Proverbs
5:1-2. Proverbs teaches a lot about wisdom. Read some verses to your family
everyday from Proverbs. If you read an entire chapter a day, you’ll read through
the book in one month. I know of a couple who for years read through the
Proverbs day by day. They were a very wise, wonderful Christian couple. I think
I’ll start reading through Proverbs again on August 1st—how about
you? Will you join me in a challenge to Read Proverbs Through in August?
Lord God, I am giving You my attention. Please give
me wisdom and understanding that I would be discreet and gracious to those
around me in need—especially in spiritual need.
All
scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise
noted.
© 2013 by Mickey
M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
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