Today’s scripture: Proverbs 29:19-27 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Ben Lamb):
When writing one of these devotionals, I often will read the assigned scripture in several translations (including the three translations listed at the beginning of today’s reading). Doing this seems to give me a more rounded understanding of the scripture. Usually, there is very little difference content-wise.
But verse 21 perplexed me as I tried to put it into my own understanding:
- NRSV: A slave pampered from childhood will come to a bad end. My understanding: A spoiled brat will become a big mess.
- The Message: If you let people treat you like a doormat, you’ll be quite forgotten in the end. My understanding: Stand up for your beliefs, or you’ll be swept aside.
- KJV: He that delicately bringeth up his servant from a child shall have him become his son at the length. My understanding: Treat people kindly and they’ll want to become close to you.
My initial thought was, “Why in the world can’t those people in charge of doing Biblical translations ever get everything straight as to exactly how the original language should be put into any other language? Why has there ever been a need for more than one translation per language?”
Of course, there’s an argument to be made along the lines of, “Since when did Ben become such an expert on Biblical translations and their intricacies?!” Honestly, I’m far from being fluent in ancient languages. I’z dewin’ good jest two git thru English! 😉
But, here’s my point. Surely I’m not the only person on planet Earth who’s ever had a difference of opinion on a Bible matter. (Verse 21 is Exhibit A in this case.) However, each translation still seems to impart an equally valid truism.
For this reason, I’m grateful that we also have the Holy Spirit who intercedes for us in order that we may gain greater understanding in these situations. (Romans 8:26) In this case, I verbally stumbled in prayer, asking how to reconcile the fact that three translations seemed to tell me three different things. Later, it became clear: these verses don’t contradict each other; they complement each other!
Thought for the day: The Bible is a beautiful bouquet of good things which sometimes can be presented in a multitude of ways.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.