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Job 34:16
16 If now thou hast understanding [biynah], hear [shama`] this: hearken ['azan] to the voice [qowl] of my words [millah]. KJV-Interlinear
16 'But if you have understanding, hear this; Listen to the sound of my words. NASB
The word for understanding, generally implies knowledge and comprehension of that knowledge. But here it carries a little different look. Here, understanding implies 'to observe.'
So, if you are wise enough to know the difference between right and wrong, if you are wise enough to be able to discern between what is true and what is false, if you are wise enough to have an open mind and are wiling to learn, if you are wise enough to not allow arrogance or stubbornness from clouding your thinking and decisions, then listen, then hear, then give your attention to what truth is said or needs to be said.
You did not have any say or input in your own birth. Likewise, you will not have any say or input in your death. Everything in life, during your life is generally beyond your control.
You cannot control the weather, the economy, the price of tea.
And yet, with so little control over life, arrogance drives man to thinking he can do whatever he wishes in life, whenever he wishes.
There is a big difference between setting goals for oneself and pursuing those goals and generally being responsible and flexible in life so you can achieve the things you want out of life, thus increasing your options in life.
And being rigid regarding the facts and circumstances of life and refusing to hear or consider alternatives, thus limiting your options in life, and maybe never getting anywhere in life.
So it is with ones spiritual life. To pursue ones spiritual life opens up infinite doors of opportunity. To ignore your spiritual life, imposes severe limitations on your life and closes every door for anything permanent and worthwhile in life.
And who should be in control over your life? The wisdom which points you in the direction of truth and opportunity and prosperity, or the attitude which points you in the direction of failure?
