Proverbs 30:5-6 (ESV)

Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, lest he rebuke you and you be found a liar.

God’s way works every time it’s tried. Maybe not right away in some cases…but sooner or later. Do you believe that? God’s Word contains the truth about space, time, matter, humanity, marriage, family, government, conflict, greed, betrayal, money, sex, power, achievement, fame, poverty, wisdom, foolishness, and many other subjects. Do you believe that? God’s Word says what it means and means what it says. It is not subject to your emotional reaction or opinion. Yes, there are a few mysteries, but the vast majority of it is understandable and applicable today. Do you believe that?

It has been said that new news is old news happening to new people. Solomon captured that thought well when he said, “What has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun” (Ecc. 1:9). This is not to say there will be no advances in technology and all that goes with it, but the reality is that the underlying facts of humanity and existence are fixed, and when properly understood and applied, “Every word of God proves true.” This is why the biblically literate Christian should not be caught off guard by the news of the day or the condition of man. Additionally, understanding the basis of Truth – God’s Word – provides a roadmap by which you can “have your paths made straight” (Pr. 3:5-6). Life will usually make sense. Godly wisdom will protect you. Obedience will bless you.

The second half of today’s proverbs is a warning that more people need to hear and obey. The president of a large and established seminary once told me, “If you think you have discovered some new truth in the Bible…some new understanding…you are wrong.” The overwhelming majority of scriptural meaning has been studied and understood for two thousand years. Of course, there are some disagreements/mysteries here and there with issues such as freewill, election, and end times theology, but those are not hills to die on to contend for the faith. People who try to add on to, take away from, or distort the Word of God will be judged. Islam, Mormonism, and Jehovah’s Witnesses are perfect examples. Don’t add yourself to that list.