Today’s Blog: Security or Flexibility?
TODAY’S PROVERB: The house of the wicked will be demolished, but the tent of the upright will flourish. Proverbs 14:11, TLV
It might seem obvious, but what is the difference between a house and a tent? We’d probably all agree with some version of permanence, right? Normally, that’s a good thing, right? Permanence denotes stability, safety, security. So, what can we learn from today’s proverb? A lot.
But, I’m going to pick this one thought: what if the solidity represents something different? Immovability: as in, stubbornness, isolation, independence. Compared to the tent, which represents mobility, temporariness, flexibility, and vulnerability. So, how is this relevant to us?
Sometimes, I want to “build a home” in a place where God merely wants me to rest — or stay temporarily. This place could be a healing place. Or a learning place. It’s not meant to be a permanent place. Once I’ve rested or been taught a lesson or truth, there will come a time when I need to move on renewed and ready to put the lesson to use. If I stay, I will miss out on all that is before me.
Another type of unhealthy permanence is to hold on to an idea, people, places, or things. A friend of mine periodically reminds me that I need to “hold lightly and not tightly.” When God has gifted us in a certain area, we can hold so tight to the gift that we don’t see that the Giver has changed directions. The last thing we want to do is think we can hold back change when God ordains it.
When I feel that “tug of war” with circumstances, challenges, or people, I need more practice in how to better loosen my grip. Only then can I hear from the Holy Spirit. I need to stay in my tent, ready to move when He says it’s time — even if I must abandon my security.
Sigh. It’s not easy, is it? That’s okay. Our Father knows and He’ll walk us through the changes.
May we hold lightly and be ready to move, my friends.
Proverbs 14:11 Tree of Life Version – TLV, #tlvbible, #tlvproverbs
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