What I believe impacts my life outcomes. In fact, my beliefs can be deadly or enlightening. This blog post discusses the importance of our life philosophies.
The Importance of Beliefs
So, what’s more important in life than my beliefs?
Well, not very much given the profound impact beliefs have on other areas of life.
For example, what I believe about my health touches lifestyle choices such as my eating, sleeping, exercise routine, and use (or non-use) of tobacco and alcohol.
As such, beliefs are discussed in Proverbs 13.9. They are expressed in a contrast between “light of the righteous” and “lamp of the wicked.” The opposing outcomes are predictable: joy or darkness.
My beliefs, my life philosophies, the precepts I live by, are impactful. Why? Because they deeply impact my life outcomes. So, choose that lamp of life carefully! proverbsforprofessionals.net
The Precept
In Proverbs, the best place to understand “lamp” and “light” is Proverbs 6.20-23.
There, in Proverbs 6.20, we read about commandments (Hebrew mitsvah) and the law (Hebrew torah). Hence, the Know-Do balance.
Those teachings are the foundation of our character transformation, Proverbs 6.21 (“…bind…on your heart…”).
Then, in Proverbs 6.23 we read that the commandments, the precepts, are a lamp. In parallel, the law is the light. Finally, my willingness to learn is “the way of life.”
In short, if I have a teachable spirit, the eternal precepts enable me to practically apply – thus carry around, God’s light!
Will I listen? Who will I listen to? More importantly, will I change? proverbsforprofessionals.net
My Beliefs in Action
Now, let’s take that word picture back into Proverbs 13.9 so we understand what’s being said.
The verse teaches that my integrity is a source of light for my life that brings me joy. Conversely, the life philosophy of the ungodly brings darkness.
The concept of flawed beliefs matches well with the observation in Proverbs 14.12 that sometimes we convince ourselves we’re right when, actually, we’re dead wrong!
Note that Proverbs 13.9, 20.20, and 24.20 all use the phrase “put out” (Hebrew daak) to describe what can happen to our light. The word means to be extinguished.
Integrity brings light into my life, whereas ungodly beliefs bring darkness. Proverbs 13.9 paraphrase. proverbsforprofessionals.net
Apply This Today!
What I believe, thus what I value, is critical because of the impact beliefs have on my life outcomes.
I literally choose to live in the light, or in darkness, by the beliefs I adopt!
Where do I find light for my life? From the light of creation! See John 8.12 and John 9.5.
Truly, my beliefs can be deadly or enlightening! Therefore, choose life!