Proverbs_29

Scripture

Proverbs 29:18a

Where there is no revelation, people cast off restraint;

Observation - What does it say?

As Solomon continues to share the wisdom God has given him, he points out that when revelation is absent, so is restraint.

Understanding - What does it mean?

Several other versions translate “revelation” to “vision.” When you have a vision or a revelation of something you are pursuing, you limit your options. Consider fitness for example. If I want 6 pack abs, I am going to place some restraints on my diet; there are parts of the menu I’m not going to order from anymore. Sleeping in is no longer an option because I am going to go to the gym. If I begin to lose sight of that vision for that physique, I will start to get lazy and cast off the restrictions I’ve put on myself. And, in turn begin to drift farther and farther from what I once wanted. Likewise, we have vision of a better financial situation so we discipline ourselves to go to work and refrain from making certain purchases. Or we have a vision of attending a certain college so we sacrifice time with friends and other interests to study and make sure we get good grades in high school.

The same is true of following Jesus. If we have no idea of God’s vision for our lives, there is no motivation to discipline ourselves to do anything. When I read about people in the Bible who had these amazing encounters with God and who God used to do incredible things, I get a vision for what’s possible in my own life. And, the passion that is awakened to experience the same things drives me to sacrifice sleep, social media and other things to spend time with God. Coming to church is no longer an option. Sharing the love of God with others, even those I don’t particularly enjoy, is what I choose. And I do these things voluntarily because I am compelled by this vision of knowing God intimately and being used by him to bring many people to know him!

Life Application

Take some time to prayerfully consider God's vision for my life.

God, please fill us with fresh revelation and passion for the vision you have for our lives. As a church, you’ve given us a vision to create a great commission movement - a movement of people who have given themselves fully to bringing people into saving relationship with you and teaching them to follow you. May we grow in our faith and excitement around that vision and do whatever it takes to attain it! Amen.

- Levi Thompson