Introductory Thoughts
The context of our passage speaks of judgment against Jerusalem and Judah. In this judgment the Lord vowed to remove much of the strength of the land. He promised to remove the mighty man and the man of war, the judge and the prophet, the honourable man and the counseller. The removal of these people would certainly weaken any city, town, or nation. Yet, it is in the midst of this list that the Lord included the prudent. Apparently, the prudent are the strength of any people just as much as their great warriors and judges. When all things are considered, this makes perfect sense. Those who are prudent make decisions that stabilize any people and provide future stability as well.
Devotional Thoughts
-
(For children): Daniel was taken from his parents and carried captive into Babylon. Though he was surrounded by paganism, he still feared God. He refused unclean foods, prayed before giving answers to questions, and prayed though the government commanded him not to pray. God blessed him and kings came to him for guidance because he was wise.
-
(For everyone): How important are you to those around you? Do they come to you for counsel in times when they need wisdom and guidance? Are you a trusted source for wise and prudent advice?
-
In what ways could prudence help a nation in war, finances, and moral issues? How could the prudent man be considered as important as the aged person, the man of war, or the judge?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God to make you a pillar of strength for those around you.
- Ask the Lord to help you to be a person of prudence.
Song
Be Firm and Be Faithful
