2 Chronicles 22-24; Proverbs 2:1-11

Thursday's Bible Reading: 2 Chronicles 22-24; Proverbs 2:1-11

On this day in church history [1768] John Wesley wrote, "We are reasonable creatures, and undoubtedly reason is the candle of the Lord. By enlightening our reason to see the meaning of the Scriptures, the Holy Spirit makes our way plain before us" (William D. Blake, An Almanac of the Christian Church).

This quote, separated from its context, seems to be a statement about divine direction and knowing God's will. However, the letter is not giving advice about taking the next step in this life; it's about preparing to enter eternity:

The last scene of life in dying believers is of great use to those who are about them. Here we see the reality of religion and of things eternal; and nothing has a greater tendency to solemnize the soul and make and keep it dead to all below. We are reasonable creatures, and undoubtedly reason is the candle of the Lord. By enlightening our reason to see the meaning of the Scriptures, the Holy Spirit makes our way plain before us.

Today's reading in Proverbs tells us where understanding comes from:

[I]f you call out for insight
and cry aloud for understanding,

4 and if you look for it as for silver
and search for it as for hidden treasure,

5 then you will understand the fear of the LORD
and find the knowledge of God.

6 For the LORD gives wisdom,
and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. —Proverbs 2:3-6

In the letter mentioned above Wesley also wrote: "As you have not the same outward trials which many have, it is highly needful you should have some inward ones; although they need not be either many or long. If you walk closely with God, He is able to give any degree of holiness, either by pleasure or pain. " Click here to read the entire letter.