Ancient Israel was largely an agrarian society so it’s no surprise that King Solomon wrote often about agriculture.
A passage from today’s devotional reading was directed at managing livestock but the principle applies in all areas of our lives.
“Know the state of your flocks, and put your heart into caring for your herds, for riches don’t last forever, and the crown might not be passed to the next generation.” (Proverbs 27:23-24)
If a shepherd has no idea what is happening with his or her flock, then financial problems are just one wolfpack or one landslide away.
If a rancher puts no effort into providing safe pastures for grazing or adequate water for drinking or protection from predatory animals, then economic collapse is the likely result of such a non-caring attitude.
Sheep aren’t going to protect themselves from the wolves.
And cattle aren’t going to race through the countryside like wild horses to find adequate food, water and safety.
If we’re going to have personal financial health and have some estate to pass onto family members after we’re gone, we need to take this passage to heart.
There is a spiritual application as well. What is the spiritual condition of your children or nieces/nephews? Don’t know? I strongly encourage you to find out and, if needed, to start planting seeds.
Remember, you’re Christian example — if they do recognize it — won’t be around forever.
If the crown of life is to be passed to the next generation, it’s vital that it be worn unmistakably and fruitfully by you in this life.
Please, pour your heart into caring — tangibly and spiritually — for your loved ones and friends.
You won’t live forever.
But you can live for Jesus now.
That’s what will help you to pass the crown of life onto the next generation.
And that legacy of faith can live on after you’re gone.
As always, I love you
Martin
