Paying GOOD Attention
August 6, 2026
“Pay attention and learn GOOD judgement, for I am giving you GOOD guidance. Don’t turn away from my instructions.” Proverbs 4:1-2 NLT
Today’s a twofer!! GOOD x2! :) GOOD judgement and GOOD guidance for the taking!! Seconds anyone?
Other Bible translations, replace the word “guidance” with “doctrine”, “teaching”, “precept”, etc.., but I am sure that we all get the point, as all these nouns are preceded by the adjective “GOOD” and as such it seems wise to heed the prescribed GOOD “guidance”, “doctrine”, “teaching”, or precept. And who does not need or want more GOOD in his or her life?
Reading on (Proverbs 4: 13, 20-27), we’re given further insight into what we’re to do with that “GOOD” advice. Here’s a taste of it:
1. We’re to pay attention to It: When we hear or see the Word of God, it behooves us to look at it a little more closely and introspectively, to see how it personally applies to us.
2. We’re to turn our ear toward It: By making a conscious choice to position ourselves to the hearing of the Word as it is still “the way” the Bible tells us that “faith comes by”.(Romans 10:17)
3.We’re to keep It in our line of vision: Not difficult at all as there are many ways to do this including keeping an open Bible in one or more rooms of our home, where we are bound to lay eyes on it. Refrigerator magnets are also a great way to keep God’s Word in sight, especially if you, like me are an avid cook. You can also write down verses on index cards and place them in books, on a coffee table, in your purse or backpack, on bathroom mirrors, on cabinets, in your car, etc.. Index cards are also great to share God’s Word in a pinch.
4. We’re to guard It as though our life depends on It...and it does!: We can do this by making sure that God’s instructions concerning any matter are always paramount to any advice anyone may offer us, no matter who that person is. God’s Word should always be top of mind and preferred.
5. We’re to keep It deep in our hearts": I had just written about the importance of having God’s Word deep in our hearts and all the more for times such as, when “the enemy comes in like a flood” (Isaiah 59:19) or when we need a “word in season for one who is weary...” (Isaiah 50:4) and lo and behold!...The whole section, everything I had just written disappeared!?? And mind you, I was not even online! Go figure! I purchased software to permit me to write offline but apparently that does not guarantee anything! The devil was probably really mad!! After all I am finally, beginning to fully walk in my anointing, no longer waiting for anyone’s approval or encouragement! Thank you Jesus!
So yes, keeping God’s Word and instructions in our hearts makes it available to us by the power of the Holy Spirit who instantly activates it when we least expect we’ll need it. God is well able to feed us a timely scripture at anytime but it is still contingent upon us to do our “due memorizing diligence”. Writing out scriptures in a notebook or on index cards goes a long way in getting those nuggets of wisdom to go deep down in our hearts. Listening to the Word while doing chores or running errands, in addition to what we’re fed in weekly church services, will also help us memorize the Word.
So what’s in it for those willing to put in the time and effort to heeding God’s Word? Well, for starters, besides growing us in faith and godly
wisdom, God tells us that His advice is life giving and “healing to the body.” (v.22) This very thought from Proverbs 4 is echoed in Proverbs 3:8 which states that “This will bring healing to your body, and refreshment to your bones.” What an amazing and inviting bonus!
Survey also says that people who follow God’s advice are generally healthier than those who don’t. Wow! So, who, again claims they don’t have time for daily time in the Word? Make time for God and His Word, we must, if we are to enjoy the blessings “God has prepared for those who love Him.” both now and later (1 Corinthians 2:9), and live rich, purposeful and fulfilling lives.
I wonder how many people would be so much healthier (physically, mentally and emotionally), were they to spend more time in the Word and apply God’s wise advice to their lives, especially when considering the following:
“The entirety of Your word is truth, And every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever..” Psalm 119:160
Happy Bible reading and faith walking!