Proverbs 2:6-8 – “For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.  7 He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk in integrity, 8 Guarding the paths of justice, And He preserves the way of His godly ones.” NASB

I do not hear much preaching on the Cross, Holiness, or Separation from Sin and the World today.  Oh, I am not saying that it is not happening, but I am not hearing a lot of it.  I have been in churches where the theme seems to be entertainment and amusement and while the crowds are there and there is active involvement by those in attendance there does not seem to be a lasting effect on the lives and character of the attendees after the service is over. 

I do not mean to bring a railing indictment or render a judgment that comes across as though I view myself as ‘holier than thou.’ I do not and if what those churches that I just mentioned are doing is what the Holy Spirit is directing then that is between them and God.  I realized a long time ago that each person has a different taste in the type and style of preaching, singing, and operation of the local church.  If you look long enough you will find one that suits your particular taste and if not, maybe you should pray about the possibility of God wanting you to plant one yourself.

But back to the topic at hand – Integrity!  When I read this passage, I am immediately moved by what the writer says regarding this subject.  He identifies that the true source of Wisdom is God! He reveals that ‘knowledge’ and ‘understanding’ come from God.  He goes on to declare that God stores up ‘sound wisdom’ for the upright and is a shield for those who walk in integrity.  God guards the paths of justice and preserves the way of His godly ones.  That is powerful!

A side benefit of walking in integrity and uprightly before the Lord is Wisdom, Knowledge, and Understanding!  It is to cover us with God’s shield and to open the door to the path of justice and life.  That is a tremendous benefit.  While we do not seek to be godly for the side benefits, we should be aware of them.  We should seek to please the Lord in our lives, and we should not be afraid to ask God for Wisdom, Understanding, and Knowledge.  We should not be afraid or timid to ask God for His Divine Shield and access to the Paths of Justice and the Preservation of our Lives.

We all have promises from God that are lofty and rather than struggling to hold your head above water – Seek the Lord for His Divine Help.  We should desire to walk in Integrity and Uprightness at all times and in all things and watch God’s provision and demonstrations in our life and circumstances.

May God be with you as you go through your day!