Learn from the Best (Proverbs 22:29)

Proverbs 22:29 says, "Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean (men)".

This study emphasizes two words in this text. 

STAND - This word is a single word in the Hebrew, but in the Greek text [LXX], the two words "stand before" are frequently used in the scriptures as one term. 

This is a technical term established in the OT, and brought over into the NT, to convey the Oriental custom of those privileged individuals who not only stood before royalty, but had the favored position of influencing the throne in decisions of the kingdom. These were generally "servants" to the king, but more specifically, were those ministers of the king that carried out his wishes in various areas of service. This was a position of honor, where their words and actions were synonymous with the words and actions of the king.

SEEST THOU - This word, or phrase, is not the normal terminology "to see" something or someone, as in "I see the chair sitting there", or "I see that individual over there...", but rather, this is the term used for "seeing" prophetic vision or revelation.

At the very least, this word means to "have the spiritual perception" to realize, that this is the way that advancement works. [i.e., by sharpening your sword, (see the study on the same text, Sharpen Your Sword), continuing  to develop you abilities, you will surpass others in your field of endeavor].

However, what is implied, in the Hebrew text, though not specifically stated in translation, is to spiritually perceive, and learn from those who do "sharpen their swords". In other words, find those who are more skilled in an area of study, that you are pursuing, and learn from their expertise.

Whatever it takes, if God has put certain desires and passions within you, then pursue those by finding the best in that field, and then study and learn from them. Drive the miles it takes to get to the people that you need to access, to take you to the level that you need to be at to fulfill the calling on your life.

Notice carefully, in the text, that those that commit to "sharpening their sword" in this manner, don't just stand before a king, they will find themselves in positions of favor and in demand by kings (plural). Many of those in highest authority will want what you have, when you do what it takes to develop that God given ability and talent. 

You are God's Best and God's Best is Yours.