Proverbs 13

When I look at the life of Paul, I can’t help but notice the unshakable passion with which he wrote about God. In a time of politically spiritual darkness, he shone brightly, much as a fire staged atop a hill, giving direction to those who yearned for the Truth and courage to those whose own fire was dimming. One need look no further than Romans 11:33 to gain a understanding of Paul’s love for and wonder of His Creator. Paul’s fire was fed by a fuel whose very essence was a love for both God’s Word and the teachings of Jesus Christ.

When I take an honest look at my life, I believe I’ve looked a lot more like a matchstick than I have a “Paul-ish” fire. Maybe you’re a lot like I’ve been, ignited by the Holy Spirit to live passionately for Jesus Christ, only to watch as time beckons the flame to fade into a dull roar. Sadly enough, I’ve realized it is often the neglect of God’s word that has led me down this path I’ve traveled, one I know as Apathy Way. You see, when I’m consistently in God’s Word, I feel a lot like Paul - alive with a joy and a passion fueled by the ‘depths of His riches.’ When I’m not in His word, however, I feel like all passion in life has evaporated.

When I read Proverbs 13:13, I realize that those who revere the Word have fires fueled by the Word. You see, God’s word IS the fuel to my fire. It IS the knowledge with which I live my life in light of how He desires. When we make the connection that God’s Word leads to a passionate life of substance, then, and only then, will we begin to burn like Paul, a fire staged atop a hill, giving direction to those who yearn for the Truth and courage to those whose own fire is dimming.

--Andrew Nix