Prov 6:32 He who commits adultery lacks sense; he who does it destroys himself.
We had not eaten for two days, and were dragging ourselves through the mud, one step at a time. There was no energy to even think. Boots covered in clay like mud sucking at our energy with every step. The humidity and heat off the chart, and the dense green rain forest holding us in a twighlight that gave no room for sunbeams.
There was lack here for sure, lack of energy, food, clean drinking water, and light. Yet there was purpose, we were pushing through the lack, crossing the border between Honduras and Nicaragua just inland from the Mosquito Coast. There were villages here that no missionary had visited, and that were often under control of a local “witch-doctor”.
Over the next few weeks we would be permitted to take part in some amazing moment, see some heart wrenching situations, and connect with people that we had never met before in a deep way.
If the “lack” had stopped us I am so sad to think of what we would have missed those days over thirty years ago now.
KNOWLEDGE
We know intuitively I think when we are lacking something essential. Maybe a friend is going through something and for some reason we don’t sense the compassion we would normally, and in those moments we question ourself – something is not right, we should be moved by this information.
At time we have a practical lack, perhaps we have been retrenched in our role and have a sense of lack in our identity, our purpose, our future.
It’s not a good place to be in “lack” either spiritually, emotionally, financially, or any other area. But it is an early warning system for our soul. What emotions are rising from this lack, and why? If we focus on the inner journey and not the outer circumstances there is usually the opportunity for significant growth through any season of lack.
UNDERSTANDING
Let’s pick one word from this verse to look closer at and see if that can help us gain a deeper insight into how God would love us to live?
The word used for “lacks” in Hebrew is pronounced as “haser” and carries the meaning “lacking, wanting”.
In the LXX the word used is ένδειαν [endeian] meaning “lack”. In the New Testament, the Greek word ένδειαν (pronounced “endeian”) translates to “lack” or “need”. It refers to a state of destitution, poverty, or want, either material or spiritual. This word appears in various contexts to describe the state of those who are lacking something essential.
Material Need:
In 2 Corinthians 8:14, Paul uses the word to describe the “lack” of material resources among the Macedonian Christians who were in a state of poverty and required assistance from others.
Spiritual Need:
The concept of “lack” or “need” can also extend to the spiritual realm. It can refer to a lack of understanding, faith, or spiritual maturity.
The term “ένδειαν” is a reminder of the importance of recognizing and addressing both material and spiritual needs within the Christian community and beyond. It highlights the call to compassion, generosity, and mutual support.
WISDOM
What decisions can I make today that will move me towards remaining faithful?
STRENGTHS THOUGHT: Connectedness as a Gallup Strength sees the big picture, and the purpose that engenders. It’s never and excuse for inertia however.
Allan’s Unauthorised Version –He who is unfaithful is wanting in his inner person, he who takes this action corrupt and ruins his soul.
He who commits adultery – he who is unfaithful
lacks sense – is wanting in his inner person
he who does it – he who takes this action
destroys – corrupts and ruins
himself – his soul
PRAYER: Father, thank you for today. Help me to do all I can to remain faithful to you and to my wife and family.
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