Living the Book of Proverbs – Lesson Two

Brenda Cannon HenleyBy Brenda Cannon Henley
Often having heard descriptions of the Book of Proverbs as a “road map of daily living,” “our GPS for life” and “practical wisdom for daily choices,” I have come to respect, revere, and rely on the words found in the 31 chapters. In fact, there is a chapter (some longer – some shorter) for every day of the month. I have further been surprised to find in my own study to discover an answer for questions not yet asked in my daily living just waiting for me to need it.

We are told the key words are “wisdom” and “instruction” in this important book of the Bible, and who among us would be so dumb as to think we do not need additional help in this day and age? I have also come to realize that the word, “practical” must be added to any good description of this teaching if it is truthful and helpful. In other words, it works for today.

For the past five weeks, I have needed any extra help I can get personally. One of my truest best friends of more than 72 years of life, hit a snag in the road of life and needed a little help from her friends. The principle of giving help when needed is found in Proverbs.

My friend is a widow living in Georgia in her own home. Her two adult children live in Texas and have busy, full lives. Truthfully, nearly reaching into our 80s, we both, along with our classmates, have simply outlived most of our relatives and friends.

My strong suit is not medical or anything to do with this domain. I call my cousin, Ann, often because she has a 50 year professional career under her belt and never hesitates to walk me through uncharted waters. Besides, she owes me because I did not hurt her when I babysat her those many years ago.

Never suffering many illnesses, I am just not attuned to the lingo, diagnosis, needed medication, or even directions any longer to physicians, labs, and hospitals. The Atlanta area has changed and grown so much in the years I’ve been gone, it is somewhat frightening.

But, hey, I can read, clean, shop, and cook with the best of them. My friend needed help and I could help meet that need.

And, I know the Book of Proverbs.

So, I got in my little Orange Sonic, which I love to the complete dismay of my children, and drove to Atlanta from Pinellas Park, Fl. because “A man (or woman) that hath friends must show himself friendly.”

Proverbs 17:17 teaches that “A friend loveth at ALL times, and a brother (or sister) is born for adversity.” I think this truth may fall under practical Christian living.

After weeks of testing, referrals, visits, and conversations, we have been told that several things have likely conspired together as the culprits for dangerous falls, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, hypertension, and some other health issues.

We are following doctor’s orders, reporting to family and friends, and taking care of business, but having a little fun along the way. We are also eating some good, healthy food and laughing often. That is also found in the jam packed Book of Proverbs.

Oh, the stories that have been unearthed as we time travel back through our lives. One of my friends that was visiting and I had an interesting discussion which I think is worthy of mentioning. An old preacher many years ago taught me a valuable truth. “You can only help someone when they need your help.”

Who can we help today based on instruction found in Proverbs?

Brenda Cannon Henley can be reached at 409 781 8788, or
[email protected]

[July-27-2021]

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