1 The proverbs of Solomon:A wise son brings joy to his father,     but a foolish son brings grief to his mother.2 Ill-gotten treasures have no lasting value,     but righteousness delivers from death.3 The Lord does not let the righteous go hungry,     but he thwarts the craving of the wicked.4 Lazy hands make for poverty,     but diligent hands bring wealth.5 He who gathers crops in summer is a prudent son,     but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son.6 Blessings crown the head of the righteous,     but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.REFLECTIONSWritten by David Ponnuswamy When I first read this passage many years ago it came across as common-sense and good instructions to live a godly life. Looking back, little did I realise that I too would struggle to comply with some of the above at times in the past.Solomon is known as the wisest man of all time. When he became king, he asked God for wisdom not wealth. Yet God gave him both. I love how he writes the positive and negative outcomes for each point he brings up. As Christians none of us want to produce the negative outcome, so let’s not dwell there.However, God in his grace always provides us with positive outcomes, so we should live and respond to his master plan for us here and now and for all generations. Wise children are a great blessing to parents. I know I am greatly blessed in this. (v1) We are made righteous through faith in Christ. I am very grateful for Jesus. (v2) God will always provide for our needs not our wants. His word – the Bible – feeds my spirit. (v3)We are always meant to work not only for ourselves but also for God’s kingdom.  We are reminded that wealth on earth cannot be taken with us, so we should store up treasure in heaven where thieves cannot steal and moths cannot destroy. Are we mission minded with the gifts God has given us? (v4)There is a season for everything. A time to sow and a time to reap. What are you sowing or reaping for God’s kingdom right now? (v5)What a blessing it is to be right with God. The love, peace and joy that is brings is so overwhelming. It gives you the energy to go that extra mile. To make that visit or call to someone in need. (v6)Thank you Father for giving us the wisdom to know what is right and wrong. Thank you for your words of blessing, hope and encouragement is this passage. We pray that we will always look to you in all aspects of our lives and be the person you created us to be in your masterplan for humanity. Amen.ABOUT THE AUTHORDavid is a member of the 10.30am service at Bossley Park. Works full time. Studying part time at Vocational Bible College. Is a member of the Ambassadors Christian Motorcycle Club. A work in progress to humbly serve the LORD. (Micah 6:8)