HAPPY IS THE MAN!

HAPPY IS THE MAN!

          Four times in the Authorized Version we find the phrase: “Happy is the man.” In each case the Hebrew word is esher and is emphatic. Literally it means “how happy.” I think we have time this morning to look at each of these four occurrences.

Job 5:17

17 Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty:

          Eliphaz, one of Job’s friends, observes the extreme condition of Job’s case and offers a word of encouragement. The same God who allows wounds provides healing. He who allows trouble will also deliver you and give you a happy end. "We have examined this, and it is true. So hear it and apply it to yourself" (Job 5:27, NIV).

Ps 127:3-5

3 Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord : and the fruit of the womb is his reward.

4 As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.

5 Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.

         Children are a treasure. When they are well aimed they can pierce the enemy and improve the condition of the whole race of man. Every baby born shows God’s confidence in the future of mankind. Let us both treasure and train our children.

Prov 3:13

13 Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.

         If wisdom is found then it follows that it must be sought. Wisdom drawn from God’s vast store will keep a man from harming himself and others. It brings peace, prosperity and praise. Find wisdom! Value it above riches!

Prov 28:14

14 Happy is the man that feareth alway: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief.

         How happy is the man who reverently and worshipfully fears the Lord at all times. He does not run hot and then cold but is steady and constant in his devotion during the good times and the bad. He does not waver in his commitment. However, the one who becomes bitter at the Lord during hard times builds up resentment against the almighty and brings mischief upon himself because he is a wrongdoer. Steady! Steady! Steady!

Dear Lord, I am truly blessed today. Show me how happy I should be. AMEN