Daily Readings and Thought for April 10th. “EVEN A CHILD MAKES HIMSELF KNOWN BY HIS ACTS”

The above is quoted from Proverbs 20 v.11. It then adds, “whether his conduct is pure and upright.”  It is saying that what we actually do – proves what we are really like – far more than by what we say.  It is known that we “teach” by example, which is why visual aids have become so much part of teaching.  Verse 7 tells us, “The righteous walks in his integrity – blessed are his children after him”.   They have been taught by example as well as words.

Another interesting proverb is “The purpose in a man’s heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out” [v.5].  It causes us to ask – did we really think through our purpose in what we have done or are doing?  If we really are a person who considers our ways, a person who thinks carefully about all our intentions, then we will “draw it out” – like one who draws water from a well – but this takes time and effort.

Now ponder what verse 6 means.  “Many a man (person) proclaims his (or her) own steadfast love, but a faithful man (person) who can find?”  It is telling us that what we say, what we declare to be our motives, is sometimes not entirely correct; although it is not a real lie, because there is an element of truth in it.  How often do we say things “with reservation?”   

Sometimes statements are made, and agreement requested on some matter “without reservation.”    This reflects a sad state of affairs; it means we are acknowledging that so often we state our understanding or attitude about a matter, not fully meaning what we say.  This should not be so among those who believe they are or aim to be children of God, as Paul wrote, “we are children of God … then heirs – heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ provided … “ [Romans 8 v.16,17]  Look up the full quotation.  

Do fully faithful, truthful people exist?  “Even a child makes himself known by his acts ” – If we start when we are children aiming to do this, there is a good chance of us being that kind of person when we become adults.