Such is the fate of all gaining by violence. It takes the life of its possessor. Proverbs 1:19, TLV

Gangs in the Bible?     It’s time to roll back the Proverbs scroll for August. In between squeezing in vacations, shuttling kids to summer events, outdoor activities, and preparing for school, we can still find time to get a meaningful dose of God’s wisdom. Whether it’s new revelations, reminders of practical wisdom, or deeper insights into what we’ve known, Proverbs packs a lot of lessons into a small package.

Did you know, when authors write the first chapter of a book, they purposefully try to engage not only a specific type of reader, but the widest range of audience that they can.

It is interesting that King Solomon writes about three themes. Two of those themes seem logical: the magnificent values of wisdom and the introduction of wisdom as a “person” we should get to know and pay attention to. Nestled in these exciting themes is the plight of violent gangs. Really? (Proverbs 1:10-19)

Yes, There Were Gangs in the Bible Times

As much as we think gang violence has only been a concern of our society for the last forty to fifty years, it’s not.

Displaced youth searching for purpose and power through violence is nothing new. And, if they survive and grow more sophisticated in that violence, they can develop into syndicates and oppressive governments.

Teaching our children the importance of God’s wisdom in practical ways is just as important today as back in Solomon’s days. Perhaps even more critical.

If there are children and young people in your life, take them by the hand. Walk with them on Wisdom’s Journey. It was a priority to Solomon because it was a priority to the Creator of the Universe — our Father. And that’s a good thing.

Think More About It

Are you actively walking with a child or young person on Wisdom’s Journey? Did you walk with your child? How about you? Did someone walk with you?

Until tomorrow, may we walk hand-in-hand on Wisdom’s Journey, my friends.

Surely You desire truth in the inner being.
Make me know wisdom inwardly. Psalm 51:8, TLV

I’m still reeling from the terrorist attack on innocent children playing soccer in the Druz village in northern Israel. Like a gang of hoodlums, they are cowards and merciless. As Israeli military leaders seek their next steps—and they are angry—they need wisdom. The type of wisdom that comes not from emotion and mortification but the firm foundation of truth. As we pray for Israel, let us pray that this foundation of truth and wisdom will be revealed. Please also remember the families and friends who now mourn the unthinkable. God bless you.