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Ben Sira’s Impetuous Advice

Life obviously has it challenges, setbacks, trials and even joys and celebrations. Regardless how long one lives, it is apparent that life is not easy or worry free. Even Jesus foretold of life’s journey on this Earth in John 16:33, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” 

As a Christian, I am beyond grateful that I have Jesus Christ as Savior and a Heavenly Father who is my strong tower…a fortress and refuge in this world (Psalm 61:2-4). I am thankful for such comforting promises such as Hebrews 13:5, “God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” 

It is comforting to know that God is always with us in the good, bad and the ugly. His indwelling Holy Spirit will never abandon us and leave us fending for ourselves. Jesus Christ, dwells with us as our Savior and Lord, has afforded us eternal life, friendship with God (John 15:14-15), and joy unspeakable. 

We are assured that, no matter what, we are never alone, abandoned and left for dead. Our Triune God is almighty, loving, merciful and gracious to lead us through this world and our live to please, honor and glorify Him and to embrace us to help lead others to know Him through His Son Jesus (salvation/discipleship). 

There is also some very wise counsel from another of the Deuterocanonical books named Ben Sira or in some translations “Sirach” or perhaps “Ecclesiasticus.” What I find intriguing is that this book was written by the son of Sirach whose name was Joshua. In Hebrew, that would translate to “Jesus.” So, the subtitle to this book is known as “The Wisdom of Jesus, Son of Sirach.” Here are some words of wisdom: 

Ben Sira (Sirach) 2:1-6

 

My child, when you come to serve the Lord, prepare yourself for trials.

Be sincere of heart and steadfast, and do not be impetuous in time of adversity. Cling to him, do not leave him, that you may prosper in your last days. Accept whatever happens to you; in periods of humiliation be patient.

For in fire gold is tested, and the chosen, in the crucible of humiliation.

Trust in God, and he will help you; 

make your ways straight and hope in him.

 

Remember, Jesus already told us that “in this world you will have trouble.” When life is hard, overwhelming and frightening, we must trust that our Heavenly Father is there with us every step of the way from start to finish. We must not only be brave to have faith to live this belief, but be mature enough to realize the wisdom of Ben Sira who said “accept whatever happens to you…trust in God, and he will help you.” That is our hope.

 

What stood out to me, in addition to all this advice, is the statement “do not be impetuous in times of adversity.” I realize that sometimes it is nearly impossible to refrain from reacting in a bad way. We are human and be do less than stellar things at times. But, what I believe Ben Sira is saying here is not about reactions, but decisions. When something stimulates us into an action, we must not become impetuous. That word means “acting or done quickly and without thought or care.”

 

Regardless of what “it” is that happen to us, we must resist the urge to make rash and quick decisions that could either make things worse or jeopardize our ability to see justice, forgiveness or reconciliation. We would say “take a deep breath…breathe.” Step back and calm down.

 

This is why we have each other and our Church family. We were never meant to do life alone. Never go into seclusion or isolate yourself. We should not distance ourselves or turn to alcohol or intoxicants. May we never dwell on ending our life by suicide. We shouldn’t lash out at those we love nor give up on God and turn our back on Him. All these things are hasty decisions that Ben Sira referred to as “impetuous” and they are never good.

 

Make the time to speak with your pastor and share your thoughts with a trusted prayer partner. Seek the face of God for direction through fasting and prayer. Stay in the Bible and keep in prayer. Stay persistent with attending worship services and other events at your local church.

 

Another way to overcome being impetuous is to never allow shame to prevent you from reaching out and asking for help and assistance. You will be surprised to learn just how many people there are willing to help. Life is worth living as suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. There is help. Simply put: you can never, ever, “out-exhaust” God’s abundant resources.   

 

Let’s do life together. Life is hard even with others helping us, so I can’t imagine how nearly impossible it would seem in isolation and with no connection to faith or with Jesus Christ as Savior. Let us stay prepared for the trials and adversities in life. Ensure that Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior. May we never give the Devil any satisfaction by making life harder by being impetuous. Trust God. Cling to Him. Do not leave Him. Bask in His love for you.

 

 

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