Speaking of Knowledge

“The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouths of fools pour out folly.” -Proverbs 15:2

We live in an age saturated with information. Facts, figures, personalities, and conflict abound. But how do we decipher what is knowledge and what is just base folly? For that, we have to look to wisdom himself, to Jesus.

What is the knowledge that Jesus commends? Knowledge of himself, of the Spirit. Knowledge of truth — the setting-free kind of truth that is Jesus' Gospel. The opportunities to love one another as he loved. Knowing that love ourselves.

There are many things, but they all point ultimately to Jesus; more often than not, what this proverbial wisdom requires is for to use our tongues to talk of him. To encourage each other. To speak well and with knowing. And to let that knowledge fuel all of the other knowledge we obtain.

This is also a lesson for those who preach before listening ears. Don't promote folly, the useless and meaningless things that crowd for attention in our day. Rather, commend knowledge of Jesus. Of his finished work. Of his declaration of love over us. Then go and pursue that knowledge with those who hear you.

Today who can you encourage toward the knowledge of Jesus? Who can you tell and walk with as you go after the truth? Go tell them.

Life Laid Down

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” -John 10:11

We take it for granted, don't we? That Jesus actually laid down his life for us. The greatest of heroes, the Savior of the world, gives up his blood and breath for you.

Wolves and thieves will come and attempt to take the sheep away. But this good shepherd will protect the sheep. He knows them personally, and he lays down his life for them. This laying down was no cakewalk. He took on the burden of sin. He experienced separation from God the Father, and he was shamed by those who gathered around. Under darkness, he gave up his spirit. His life, for you.

For Jesus, it was worth it. To claim you, to cover you by his death. With joy, he welcomes you as brother or sister in the wake of his death and resurrection. You are never outside of his care.

The good shepherd knows you. He loves you. Listen to his voice and follow him. Hear him tell you how you are approved in him. And live.