Two things I asked of You,
Do not refuse me before I die:
Keep deception and lies far from me,
Give me neither poverty nor riches;
Feed me with the food that is my portion,
That I not be full and deny You and say, “Who is the Lord?”
Or that I not be in want and steal,
And profane the name of my God. Proverbs 30:7-9
Simple pleasures, I think, are often the best. Sitting on the couch reading a book with a grand child, camping, having dinner with family and friends, or watching a football game on TV together are all wonderful simple pleasures. Do you have some that come to mind?
Agur makes observations that are astute and profound. He describes two common phenomena, then three, then four that have caught his attention and caused him to consider the world around him. He says he wants to be a man that lives in truth and not deception. Oh how refreshing that is. And then, he sees great value in living without too much wealth or in poverty. Wow, what a lesson- to live within our means and still find the simple pleasures that lead us to give thanks to the God who made us. Of course, He is the key in it all. We should recognize His hand of provision and protection.
How about me? Am I wishing for pleasures beyond my means? Am I appreciating what is within my grasp and thanking God for it all?
Lord, as this day begins- I am preparing for tomorrow’s preaching at the church in Bakersfield. Help me represent You and Your Word in an attractive and compelling manner. May I be an encouragement to the congregation. As this Thanksgiving week continues, would you show me again the value of simple pleasures that You provide so often.
