Day 138, Year 1
The Spirit of Nobility and Willingness
“But the noble, openhearted, and liberal man devises noble things; and he stands for what is noble, openhearted, and generous.” (Isaiah 32:8 AMPC)
The phrase “noble, openhearted, and liberal” in today’s verse is derived from nadib in Hebrew, which means “noble in mind and character, willing (to give), generous, or princely in rank.” The upright, understanding, and wise mentioned previously all belong to this “noble” category, for they are honorable in God’s kingdom. These types of people have several characteristics.First, nobility in mind and character. People’s character often stems from their habits of everyday thoughts. Rejecting falsehood and pretense, persistently seeking divine uprightness, as well as the beliefs and convictions that lead to eternity, could all make our minds upright and wise. Regardless of our genetic inheritance or family background, we can change the entire orbits of our lives through the ever-renewal of thoughts in Christ.
Second, willingness to give. The word nadib was first used in Exodus 35:5, describing the Israelites’ eagerness to offer various gifts to God for the construction of the tabernacle and sacrifices. This word describes those who obey God’s commands and are willing to give. Thus, the second half of today’s verse states that those people will “stand for what is noble, openhearted, and generous.” Hence, these noble people are willing to seek things of eternal value and will reap eternal blessings.
Third is generosity to help others (1 Chronicles 28:21; Proverbs 19:6). Nadib also means to be generous and helpful to others. Indeed, people with wisdom and understanding are usually willing to help those in need, sometimes even materially. Therefore, the “noble things” in today’s verse might not be with grand vision, but simply generous acts of help for those in need.
Fourth is the spirit of willingness (Psalm 51:12). One particular usage of this word refers to the spirit that is both noble and willing. In the psalm David wrote after his transgressions, he asked God to help him by granting him the “willing” spirit. This “willing” could also be translated as “noble.” Indeed, committing adultery with another man’s wife and later killing that man is certainly not noble. If we walk in nobility, we would be freed from all foolishness and wickedness. Hence, believers with understanding and wisdom would seek things of effective and eternal value. We also need to seek God’s noble spirit to guide and help us to see through life and death, thus pursue things of eternity.
Reflection questions:
1) Are you a person who is willing to give and help others? Why?
2) Do you need to pray for the Lord to grant you the spirit of nobility and willingness that guides your every decision in life?