The Noontimes

Proverbs 30: Who Needs God?

Saturday, August 3, 2024

We never seem to learn that God is infinite and loving, and so the writers of Proverbs want to assure us of God’s compassion before they end their lesson plan of practical advice.

No God!—I can do anything I want! (MSG)

Knowing that, like small children, we want to believe we are gods, and also knowing that God offers us divinity itself, the writers of Proverbs remind us that God’s wisdom brings us peace.

I have not learned wisdom,
    nor have I knowledge of the holy ones. (NRSV)

Understanding that we often are too frightened or too stressed to feel God’s presence, the writers of Proverbs provide us with lists of mysteries, wonders, and symbols to guide us on our way.

I have not learned enough wisdom
    to know the Holy One. (CJB)

Believing that God has nothing but goodness in store for us, the writers of Proverbs remind us that despite any darkness that threatens our security, the light of God’s promise lies in each of us.

I am more like an animal than a human being;
    I do not have the sense we humans should have. (GNT)

Assuring us that God’s promise is true, the writers of Proverbs tell us that we only need run to God with open and honest hearts when we have lost our way.

Tomorrow, applying all we have learned.

When we compare varying translations of these verses, we come to more fully know that each of us holds an essential portion of God’s promise to humanity, and that each of us mist come to truly know our God.

Image from: https://dcist.com/story/23/06/22/dc-guaranteed-basic-income-mother-child-welfare/