The Better Ways of God- Part 1
We tend to think that certain things are good for us, but God knows what is better. Through a simple look at the word better in Scripture, we can see how God’s ways are better than ours.
Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Psalm 63:3 (KJV)
God’s lovingkindness is better than life itself. The the human kind of love cannot compare with the compassion and mercy of God Man’s love is selfish and based on emotion and often on physical desire. God’s love is better by far than man’s lust. God’s love satisfies, but that which man calls love never will.
The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver. Psalm 119:72 (KJV)
Why is God’s law, or His Word, better than riches? God’s Word always has an answer, even when money can’t buy you one. Riches will fail, but the Word never does.
Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her. Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her. The Lord by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens. By his knowledge the depths are broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew. Proverbs 3:13-20 (KJV)
God tells us wisdom is also better than silver and gold. There’s nothing wrong with silver and gold, but in comparison, wisdom is much more valuable. Wisdom, for example can lengthen our days, give us pleasant peace, and give us wealth. Wealth by itself cannot do this. Proverbs 8 tells us more.
For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it. I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions. The fear of the Lord is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate. Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength. By me kings reign, and princes decree justice. By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the earth. I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me. Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness. My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver. Proverbs 8:11-19 (KJV)
Wisdom is better because it can produce wealth, but wealth cannot produce wisdom. Wisdom enables rulers to rule and judges to judge. It gives understanding and strength. Mere money cannot do that.
Tomorrow we’ll continue to look at how God’s ways are better.
