For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it (Proverbs 8:11 KJV).
Standing near the water’s edge, she stared at her reflection. A familiar excitement washed over her. Like a fever, it quickly consumed her. She scanned the shoreline, contemplating her choices. Not just, any place would do. No. Her heart burned for perfection. She reached for her pan and waded into the water until she arrived at the determined location.
She inhaled deeply, whispered a prayer, turned the pan perpendicular and plunged it to the bottom. Slowly, as not to lose anything, she lifted the pan from the watery chest and rocked it back and forth, swirling the contents. She smiled. The pan gleamed golden. She collected the precious nuggets and dropped them into a leather repository hanging about her neck.
Searching the waters, she spied a large stone. She pushed the obstruction aside and continued her search for the more easily recognizable pebbles. Yet her eyes were drawn to the discarded stone. She picked it up and rolled it between her thumb and index finger. A golden sliver winked at her. She grinned. It wouldn’t be easy, but it could be done.
On the sandy bank, she unsheathed her knife and began scraping the outer surface. The stone proved impenetrable. Undaunted, she placed it in a vice and reached for her hammer and chisel. Several days and nights passed until finally, the treasure beneath was exposed.
Reflection
The deep things of God are never easily found. Just as a miner spends hours searching for that perfect nugget of gold, it often takes years of searching the Word of God. For wisdom doesn’t depend on us, but on God. He reveals Himself to us as we faithfully pursue Him. He chooses the where, when, and how.
Daniel said, “He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him.” Daniel 2:22 KJV
If we are to reach the deeper depths and greater heights, then we must search the Word as if panning for gold. We’re not to be satisfied with shallowness. We must wade into the deeper waters and be willing to follow His lead when He places a nugget before us.
Paul said, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16
If we are to grow, we must eat a balanced diet.
Prayer
Lord, help me not to settle for the sweet, sugary offerings so easily obtained, snacking my way through the table you’ve spread for me. Help me partake of the meat of Your Word that I may understand the deeper things You long to share with me.
