Proverbs 13:13–22 gives us clear instructions on how to “see dreams come true.” As you drive down the highway of life, God has placed road signs all along the way. His Word contains them all! Some are bright and cheerful, like “Scenic Overlook Ahead,” and others are flashing warnings that read, “Bridge Out—Turn Back Now!” Modern translations of these signs tell it like it is: “Ignore the Word and suffer,” says The Message. “Honor God’s commands and grow rich.” The New Living Translation adds that wisdom is “like a life-giving fountain.” In other words, drink up! No more sipping from “death-tainted wells.” Refuse discipline and you’ll end up spiritually homeless. Embrace correction, though, and you’ll find yourself living an honored life—complete with curb appeal.
Of course, there’s always the temptation to take the Down & Dirty Detour. The Good News Translation warns that on this road “troubles follow you everywhere.” It is littered with refuse—both the smelly kind and the spiritual kind. The Message puts it bluntly: “Fools litter the country with silliness. Irresponsible talk makes a real mess of things.” You can almost see the fast-food wrappers and broken dreams scattered along the shoulder. It is the kind of road where your GPS keeps saying, “Recalculating…” but you stubbornly keep going. Yet, even here, God’s road signs never stop flashing reminders to turn around. The wise traveler recognizes the potholes of pride and the ditches of foolishness and makes a U-turn toward higher ground.
On the other hand, Wisdom Way is a beautifully paved boulevard with clean air and good company. “Keep company with the wise and you will become wise,” says the Good News Translation. “Hang out with fools and watch your life fall to pieces,” adds The Message. It is like the difference between dining with chefs or eating with clowns. The company you keep determines the direction you travel. The Message concludes, “God-loyal people get a good life.” And the road sign ahead confirms it: “Pleasant to see dreams come true.” The only problem is that “fools will not turn from evil to attain them.” They miss their exit completely. Meanwhile, the wise keep cruising—windows down, radio up, and hearts full—enjoying the beautiful view along Wisdom Way.