Proverbs 14 

Verse 8 " The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way."  

Verse 15b " But the prudent man considers his steps." 

Verse 18 b "But the prudent are crowned with knowledge." 

The dictionary defines prudent as  - capable of exercising sound judgement in practical matters; cautious  or discreet in conduct; circumspect, not rash; managing carefully and with economy.  The Hebrew word [aruwm] means cunning.  It comes from the root word [ aram] which means to make bare, beware, take crafty counsel.  To be cunning is to be skillful or cleaver;  it is usually used in a negative sense of being skillfully deceptive, sly, or crafty. But it can also mean to know, to do something with skill and proficiency; ( World Dictionary). 

The Word of God makes it clear to us that we are to live and walk according to our Lord's commands, by the Spirit, with faith in Jesus Christ.  This is not something that we can do without His power and grace.  We need to be prudent:

- to understand the way we must live 

- the steps we must walk

- the choices we must make, 

- the goals we set, 

- the purpose for our lives. 

The proverbs help us to be prudent, to exercise sound judgement, to carefully manage our lives skillfully and wisely, in the fear of the Lord. 

To build up our homes and families with wisdom, instead of tearing them down with foolishness. v1

To walk in righteousness in the fear of the Lord, instead of being crooked and despising the Lord. v2

To speak words of wisdom which preserve us, instead of foolishness which brings punishment. v3

To be a faithful witness, speaking truth, instead of a lying v5

To be kind and gracious to those in need, instead of being bitter and scornful v9/10

When we are committed and careful to walk according to God's will, in love and grace and goodness, He promises again and again that He will bless us!

Our homes will flourish v11

We will find satisfaction in our lives v14

We will find happiness in helping others v21

We will profit from our labors v23

We will have confidence in the Lord, our children will find refuge in Him v26

We will find peace in our hearts and health in our bodies v30

We know that we have a refuge for eternity when we die v32

Our nation will even profit!  v34

It is everything that we could ever want or need, right? Do we want it enough to work at it?  To be prudent, to be careful, to take the time and energy to develop these virtues in our own lives and in our children's lives? Again and again, the Lord reminds us to be intentional in the things we say and the things we do!  It is so easy to just go along with the flow of work and chores and recreation - living without really thinking about it. We are busy people! ( Even in retirement!)  But, this is so important ! And so I pray:

Father in heaven, my Refuge and Fortress, always faithful and patient, help me to live prudently, intentionally, skillfully and even cunningly.. according to Your Word.  Make me righteous and wise.  Make me gracious and kind, truthful and generous, obedient and humble.  I need You, O Lord, I need You.  Every hour I need You! Thank You for loving me, saving me, and sanctifying me by Your grace and power.  Christ in me, the hope of glory!  It is in Your name I pray, Amen.