"Wisdom Cries Out"
Living For The Better
“Better is a dry morsel with quiet than a house full of feasting with strife.” (Proverbs 17.1)
“Better” sets forth a contrast defining the ideal versus the alternative. The contrast seems paradoxical at first because naturally “more is better.” But that maxim proves false when applied to practical life. You’ve seen newlyweds living in small apartments, eating Ramen noodles who are happier than couples who have been married for years and are financially stable. Why? Because worldliness has not invaded their lives or tainted their priorities.
We live in a culture where enhancement is expected. Bigger houses, better investments, nicer meals, and more stuff are the natural progression. Someone with a table full of food in a nice home would be viewed as “living the best life.” Wisdom teaches this equation doesn’t equal happiness or godliness; and yet how many people are swept up in its pursuit?
You will not find peace in your relationships or your home in the pursuit of more. Better outcomes are found in the place of contentment and love for others (Proverbs 15.16).
There are greater consequences for spurning the better path than just an awkward meal. “Better” most reflects God’s nature. To accept less than the better path is to walk away from the character of God and thus spurn God himself.
We must not lose sight of what is important. Living at peace with God and seeking to live a quiet life with those you love is the better way (1 Thessalonians 4.11). Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
“Better is a little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble with it.” (Proverbs 15.16)
