“The words of a man’s mouth are like deep waters [copious and difficult to fathom]; The fountain of [mature, godly] wisdom is like a bubbling stream [sparkling, fresh, pure, and life-giving].”
Proverbs 18:4 AMP
I am reminded today of Jesus’ encounter with the woman at the well. If you remember, Jesus was making His way to Galilee and passed through Samaria. No Samaria was a place that was loathed by the Jews. While there Jesus has an encounter with a woman of less than stelar reputation. She had been previously married 5 times and was now living with a man not her betrothed! Jesus immediately recognizes that she has a deeper need then physical attachment. Jesus uses the situation to drive home an important point for every person alive, the true place that needs fulfilled is inside! After asking her to draw a drink for Himself, He makes that statement, “Jesus answered her,
“If you knew [about] God’s gift [of eternal life], and who it is who says, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him [instead], and He would have given you living water (eternal life).”
John 4:10 AMP
The point was that all the physical fulfillment in the world could never quench the thirst for God’s presence in a person’s life! Today our verse contrasts these two positions clearly.
The first thing mentioned are the “words of a man’s mouth.” Solomon describes them as “deep waters.” The issue here is that it is very difficult to truly know the intention and sincerity of a person’s words. That is why the book of James challenges the believer to bring forth evidence of the faith they proclaim. I am often confronted by the local religious crowd as to why I have not converted. The answer is always the same, “Don’t tell me about what you believe…show me.” For sure if there is a better way out there than what I have embraced I want to know. The reality is that there is only one truth to be embraced and I have found it! That is what makes the Bible such a controversial subject. If it is the truth, then one must conform their lives to the principals and patters found within! There is the rub! Man does not want to admit that he is wrong but would rather ignore the reality of the Word of God! The second part of our verse tells us about the benefits found in a man who has embraced the truth.
The man who has found truth in the wisdom of God now has something to offer others! Notice that the verse describes what this man has to offer as a bubbling fountain of fresh water! Not only is it thirst-quenching, it brings forth new life! Do you remember an earlier verse in our journey?
“Happy [blessed, considered fortunate, to be admired] is the man who finds [skillful and godly] wisdom, And the man who gains understanding and insight [learning from God’s word and life’s experiences],”
Proverbs 3:13 AMP
While we must try to decipher the word of man as to their true intentions, God promises that His Words are truth and life. Jesu told us that,
“So Jesus was saying to the Jews who had believed Him, “If you abide in My word [continually obeying My teachings and living in accordance with them, then] you are truly My disciples. 32And you will know the truth [regarding salvation], and the truth will set you free [from the penalty of sin].”
John 8:31-32 AMP
Take time today to know the truth. Reading and spending time in the Word is a life-changing experience if you will embrace the reality that God will never lie to you! Have a blessed day, Pastor Ken