Lean Times

(Pro 5:13 KJV)  And have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined mine ear to them that instructed me!

I think I heard someone say that when you stop growing you start to die.  Maybe I made it up.  Either way it comes to mind with this verse.  We need to keep growing.

This verse has some insights into growth.  The first clue is the cross over between the NASB and KJV.  One says “listen” (8085) and the other says “obey”.  Both are obviously necessary even if we ignore one or the other.  The key is in the next phrase and both use the same word, “incline” (5186).   I think it might be safe to say that this includes the idea of stretching out or reaching toward something.  

So?  God has many ways to teach us.  We need to be setting our sails toward those lessons or they are just so much wind in the trees.