The two hands of success
11 You have made known to me the path of life; You will fill me with joy in Your presence, with eternal pleasures at Your right hand.
Psalm 16:11Bible Reading
Proverbs 3:16-18
16 Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. 17 All her ways are pleasant, and all her paths are peaceful. 18 She is a tree of life to those who embrace her, and those who lay hold of her are blessed.
Picture a graduation ceremony. You walk across the stage. Lady Wisdom is the dean handing out the diplomas. But she does not just give you a piece of paper. In her right hand, she offers long life—a life protected from the destruction of foolish choices, a life marked by clarity and strength. In her left hand, she offers riches and honor—the resources you need and the respect of your community. Many students reach only for the left hand. They want money. They want the title. But if you take the left hand without the right, success can become heavy. You can get the high-paying job and lose your health. You can get the attention and lose your peace. Wisdom offers both. She gives the success and the capacity to enjoy it. She gives the grade and the peace. So today, do not just ask for the answer to the test. Ask for the wisdom to manage the life that follows the test. Reach for both hands.
Action Point
Take a 10-minute walk today to clear your mind. Focus on the pleasantness of God’s creation. Let your mind decompress. This is one way to hold fast to the tree of life.
Prayer Point
Lord, I want the full package. I want long life and honor. I want peace and provision. I embrace Wisdom today. I hold her fast. Let my life be a testimony of Your pleasant paths. Amen.
Reflection Point
Is my current pace of life sustainable for the next 40 years? If not, what does Wisdom say I should change?