Time to Volley

(Proverbs 4:15 KJV)  Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away.

In the English language we have a way of speaking that is called the imperative.  In the imperative the subject is often understood, not stated in words.  That is the case in this verse.  We have four direct commands beginning with “avoid” (6544a).  We never have a noun because it is understood to be “you.”  Thus the verse becomes “You avoid,...”

As I read through this chapter this month I saw this repeatedly.  God is speaking in the imperative.  He is giving commands.  He is saying “You....”  He is laying the groundwork for getting to wisdom. 

The ball is tossed into our court.  It is now depending on us to return the serve.

So?  You will never return the serve unless you take a swing.  Obedience and the path to righteous living is based on a learning curve of experience.  Here comes the next one....