Proverbs 22 - Mad Skillz

Verse 29 states, “Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings; he will not serve before obscure men.” Albeit, on the surface, this does not appear to be as wise and instructing as the other verses, easily passed over; however, it spoke to me. Essentially, it is saying, if you see someone who is very good at what they do, they will “rise to the top” and be sought after by the best of the best (kings), not “obscure men”. This speaks three things to me.

First, find what you like and/or are good at, your gift from God, and hone and use it to the best of your ability. Utilize that skill to glorify God, for when you are skilled, many will seek you. This gives you the opportunity to further glorify God, the provider of your skill.

Next, if you believe that you have no skill or are not satisfied with your current mastery of a skill, then find a mentor who is what you want to be. Find that person doing what you want to do and learn from them. Use their knowledge and wisdom to help hone your own skill. Don’t forget to thank them for their help!

Finally, and this ties to the first, don’t forget where your skill comes from, God. As the verse states, when you are very skilled, you will serve before the best. All of the accolades and praises may go to your head. Don’t fall prey to pride. Don’t forget to give the glory to God.

Lord, please help me to identify my skill, hone it to the best of my ability (using other’s examples as necessary), and to glorify you, Lord God Almighty, in all that I do.