Clean Where No Oxen Are Proverbs 14:4

In the book of Proverbs Solomon said, “in the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them”, and in chapter fourteen and verse four of Proverbs Solomon said, “where no oxen are, the crib is clean” where we read,

Where no oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox.

The verse begins, “Where no oxen are, the crib is clean:” Solomon began with the words, “where no oxen are” or “in the place and location that there exists not any cattle of oxen”, “the crib is clean” which means “the manger, feeding trough or stall exists as pure, clear and empty”. Solomon shared how the stalls in which cattle reside is pure and clear whenever there are not any oxen in them.

The verse goes on to say, “but much increase is by the strength of the ox.” Solomon continued with the words, “but much increase” or “however, nonetheless, notwithstanding and moreover abundant, numerous and great product, revenue, income and yield of grain” “is by the strength” which means “is produced through the power, might and ability” “of the ox” or “belonging to the cattle or bull known as oxen”. Solomon said there is an abundant yield of grain produced through the strength and ability of the “oxen”.

When we meditate upon the words in this verse, we learn through Solomon how there is great benefit to having “oxen” even though they make a mess within their stalls. Many people liken this proverb to children who often “make a mess” but are of great value to those who have them. God knows we tend to “make a mess” as well, and even though we have violated His law and sinned against Him, He sent His Son Jesus into the world to die on the cross for our sins. When we humble ourselves, repent of our sins and believe and trust in Him as our personal “Savior and Lord”, He will forgive our sins, grant us everlasting life and employ us in His Kingdom to produce spiritual grain even while He cleans up after us.

Next time Solomon says, “a faithful witness will not lie”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

See more devotionals on the website "thewordfortodaywithray.com" or look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” and the new poetry book "Random Mushrooms Volumes I and II" and the new novel "Elizabeth County" in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore. All references are from "Strongs Concordance".