Death for the Prideful Beasts

Scripture:

There are three stately monarchs in the earth—no, four:

The lion, king of the animals. He won’t turn aside for anyone.

The peacock.

The male goat.

A king as he leads his army.

Proverbs 30:29-31

Observation: This writer offers four wise animals - ants, badgers, locust, lizards - who are all small and seemingly modest, but he describes their wise qualities. He counters that with these four animals who are "stately monarchs". What we know of them is this.

The male lion does very little, and most are killed young or turned loose to die unless they become leader of their pack. The male peacock is absolutely grand to look at, but is farmed and killed because has little strength and almost no practical value. The male goat is solitary, mean and nearly untamable, and herders butcher most because they only need one or two to maintain their herd. A king looks most like a mighty leader when charging into battle, but is likely about to die in combat.

All four of these stately monarchs - looking proud and great - are actually likely to be of little use and will be killed shortly.

Application: This is the wise lesson of pride. Pride remains a trait a struggle with, and the writer makes it clear how better it is to be small, silent, but wise, than stately and prideful of my identity and position. In such an attitude, one dies, and often without being of any use.

How can I best serve the Lord? Likely by continuing in small roles - even those that may require skill and strength and wisdom, yet are hidden from the view of most. I feel these could be fun roles for me. I do know my work life is SO much better in such a position! I often wish it were not so, but I know the Lord has blessed me with a lesser role that has greater freedom. In the new year, I will seek similar roles again in service to my community.

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for sparing my life when I was removed from any 'stately' position. It has been a blessing! I do not want to lead from positions of visibility, and I do not want to continue in any prideful attitude. Help me to find the humble work you need done for your kingdom here on earth. Amen.