The Most Important Principle of Life

Solomon, likely the wisest man to have ever lived, other than Jesus Christ, shares the most important principle of life with his son Reheboam, and with all who have ever read and studied the book of Proverbs. The entire book of Proverbs deals extensively with the wisdom of God versus the "wisdom" of the world. And Proverbs 4 addresses this subject in great detail. In Proverbs 4:20-23 Solomon says to his son, and to all of us, "My son, pay attention to what I say. Listen closely to my words. Do not let them out of your sight. Keep them within your heart for they are life to those who find them, and health to a man's whole body. Above all else, guard your heart for it is the wellspring of life." He goes on to say what it means to guard your heart in Proverbs 4:24-27. He counsels his audience to:

• Watch your thinking and your speech.
• Keep your focus on what is most important - guarding your heart.
• Stay balanced in life.
• Watch where you are going in life. Hold on to your core values no matter what.
• Remember the key core value: Guard Your Heart!

When we read about Reheboam, Solomon's son, we find that he paid little attention to his father's words, or to any counsel from those who had served his father well. In fact, 2 Chronicles 12:14 says, "Reheboam did evil because he had not set his heart on seeking the Lord." He failed to heed his father's counsel to "Guard Your Heart!" And the kingdom was taken from him due to that fact.

This week and every week, let's remember the most important principle of life. Let's guard our hearts for they are the wellspring of life.

Encounter The Word

• Proverbs 4:1-27
• Luke 6:45