PRIDE LEADS TO DESTRUCTION

Proverbs 16:10-33 / Keywords 16:18

Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.

 

16:10 The lips of a king speak as an oracle,

    and his mouth does not betray justice.

11 Honest scales and balances belong to the Lord;

    all the weights in the bag are of his making.

12 Kings detest wrongdoing,

    for a throne is established through righteousness.

13 Kings take pleasure in honest lips;

    they value the one who speaks what is right.

14 A king’s wrath is a messenger of death,

    but the wise will appease it.

15 When a king’s face brightens, it means life;

    his favor is like a rain cloud in spring.

16 How much better to get wisdom than gold,

    to get insight rather than silver!

17 The highway of the upright avoids evil;

    those who guard their ways preserve their lives.

18 Pride goes before destruction,

    a haughty spirit before a fall.

19 Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed

    than to share plunder with the proud.

20 Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers,[a]

    and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord.

21 The wise in heart are called discerning,

    and gracious words promote instruction.[b]

22 Prudence is a fountain of life to the prudent,

    but folly brings punishment to fools.

23 The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent,

    and their lips promote instruction.[c]

24 Gracious words are a honeycomb,

    sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

25 There is a way that appears to be right,

    but in the end it leads to death.

26 The appetite of laborers works for them;

    their hunger drives them on.

27 A scoundrel plots evil,

    and on their lips it is like a scorching fire.

28 A perverse person stirs up conflict,

    and a gossip separates close friends.

29 A violent person entices their neighbor

    and leads them down a path that is not good.

30 Whoever winks with their eye is plotting perversity;

    whoever purses their lips is bent on evil.

31 Gray hair is a crown of splendor;

    it is attained in the way of righteousness.

32 Better a patient person than a warrior,

    one with self-control than one who takes a city.

33 The lot is cast into the lap,

    but its every decision is from the Lord.

Footnotes

a. Proverbs 16:20 Or whoever speaks prudently finds what is good

b. Proverbs 16:21 Or words make a person persuasive

c. Proverbs 16:23 Or prudent / and make their lips persuasive

1. Verses 10-15 teach us about just and upright kings. Their mouths do not betray justice (10). They detest wrongdoing and take pleasure in honest lips (11,12a). The throne of a good king is established in righteousness (12b). A king may have power over life and death (14b,15). We need wisdom to deal with those in power (14a). Let us pray for kings and rulers so that we may lead peaceful lives and be able to freely share the gospel (1 Ti 2:1-4).

 

2. The next set of Proverbs contrasts the value of wisdom and the dangers of pride. Wisdom is more valuable than gold. The wise are those who heed instruction. Such people prosper and are blessed (20). Wisdom or prudence is a fountain of life (23). Wise and gracious words are sweet to the soul and promote healing (24). However, pride is the greatest barrier to growing in wisdom from God. Pride rejects instruction. The fruit of pride is seen in a scoundrel (27), the perverse (28), the violent (29), and those who use deceit to plan evil (30). Proud and even haughty people may seem to get ahead in the world. But pride ultimately leads to destruction (18), and even death (25). Watch out for pride! Ask God daily for a humble heart that responds to his word.

 

Prayer Father, please forgive my pride that insists on its own way. Thank you for your word, which grows me in wisdom. Please also help our rulers to honor you and govern with wisdom.

One Word A haughty spirit before a fall

GOD ESTABLISHES PLANS

Proverbs 16:1-9 / Keywords 16:3

Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.

 

16:1 To humans belong the plans of the heart,

    but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue.

2 All a person’s ways seem pure to them,

    but motives are weighed by the Lord.

3 Commit to the Lord whatever you do,

    and he will establish your plans.

4 The Lord works out everything to its proper end—

    even the wicked for a day of disaster.

5 The Lord detests all the proud of heart.

    Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.

6 Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for;

    through the fear of the Lord evil is avoided.

7 When the Lord takes pleasure in anyone’s way,

    he causes their enemies to make peace with them.

8 Better a little with righteousness

    than much gain with injustice.

9 In their hearts humans plan their course,

    but the Lord establishes their steps.

1. Planning out a course to achieve a goal or to get somewhere in life can be good and necessary. We frequently make plans, whether big or small. Our hearts form our plans. We may believe that our motives and ways are pure (2a). But we must also know and accept that God is sovereign over all our human plans. He knows our hearts and motivations better than ourselves. We must guard our hearts against pride (5). In the end, the outcome of our plans belongs to God.

 

2. Therefore, whatever we plan to do, we are encouraged to commit it to the LORD. The LORD is the one who establishes our plans and steps (3,9). This does not mean that the result will always be what we had originally planned or hoped. It means that we conform our plans and thoughts to God’s plans and God’s will. Our faith is in God, not our plans. Our faith is that the LORD works out everything to its proper end (4a). We trust that God works for the good of those who love him (Ro 8:28).

 

3. Will you invite God into your plans and seek his will? Will you, as a first priority, delight in the LORD and commit your plans to him? Then God will establish your plans and give you the desires of your heart (3, Ps 37:4-6).

 

Prayer Father, thank you for establishing our plans and steps. Help me to commit my plans to you.

One Word Commit to the LORD whatever you do

SHOUT FOR JOY

Psalm 100:1-5 / Keywords 100:3

Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

 

A psalm. For giving grateful praise.

100:1 Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.

2     Worship the Lord with gladness;

    come before him with joyful songs.

3 Know that the Lord is God.

    It is he who made us, and we are his[a];

    we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving

    and his courts with praise;

    give thanks to him and praise his name.

5 For the Lord is good and his love endures forever;

    his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Footnotes

a. Psalm 100:3 Or and not we ourselves

1. I believe that God created us because he imagined that we would like it. However, not every day is a joyous occasion. While some look forward to spending sweet time with family, others may be lonely or be grieving a loss. While it may not always feel like it, all life is a gift from God. Every day we inhabit this life, we can experience all its wonders and emotions. In our joy, it is OK and good to shout, sing, and dance. If we are sad, it is OK to cry out. One woman I know shouted “Praise the Lord!” both at her son’s wedding and at her husband’s funeral. It was a beautiful testimony to God’s love and mercy in all things.

 

2. God is our creator, and he is good. In love, he created us and gave us life. In love, he sustains us. In love, he provides when we humbly ask him. When we live in humility and gratitude, each day may be filled with joy, grace, and hope.

 

Prayer Lord, thank you for your love and life-giving spirit poured out on us.

One Word His love endures forever

FEAR THE LORD

Proverbs 15:18-33 / Keywords 15:33

The fear of the LORD teaches a man wisdom, and humility comes before honor.

 

15:18 A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict,

    but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.

19 The way of the sluggard is blocked with thorns,

    but the path of the upright is a highway.

20 A wise son brings joy to his father,

    but a foolish man despises his mother.

21 Folly brings joy to one who has no sense,

    but whoever has understanding keeps a straight course.

22 Plans fail for lack of counsel,

    but with many advisers they succeed.

23 A person finds joy in giving an apt reply—

    and how good is a timely word!

24 The path of life leads upward for the prudent

    to keep them from going down to the realm of the dead.

25 The Lord tears down the house of the proud,

    but he sets the widow’s boundary stones in place.

26 The Lord detests the thoughts of the wicked,

    but gracious words are pure in his sight.

27 The greedy bring ruin to their households,

    but the one who hates bribes will live.

28 The heart of the righteous weighs its answers,

    but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.

29 The Lord is far from the wicked,

    but he hears the prayer of the righteous.

30 Light in a messenger’s eyes brings joy to the heart,

    and good news gives health to the bones.

31 Whoever heeds life-giving correction

    will be at home among the wise.

32 Those who disregard discipline despise themselves,

    but the one who heeds correction gains understanding.

33 Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the Lord,

    and humility comes before honor.

1. The book of Proverbs contains much wisdom meant to be applied to our everyday life. Whether the wisdom is about controlling our temper (18), not being lazy (19a), honoring our parents (20), or finding many advisers (22), these principles - when lived out - can have a positive impact on our life. However, Proverbs are intended for more than only bringing success in our earthly life. Putting into practice the wisdom of Proverbs can set our path of life on an upward trajectory, towards the LORD, instead of one that leads downwards, towards death (24).

 

2. True wisdom leads us to fear the LORD. This theme is repeated several times in Proverbs (1:7, 9:10, 15:33). To fear the LORD is to be humble before God (33). The LORD opposes the proud (25a) but honors the humble (33b). Those who are humble accept life-giving correction (31,32). The LORD knows our thoughts and detests the thoughts of the wicked (26a). He is far from the wicked (29a). The LORD protects widows from the schemes of the proud (25b). He is pleased when we speak gracious words. The LORD also hears the prayers of the righteous (29b).

 

Prayer Father, thank you for the book of Proverbs. May your word direct my path toward you. Help me to know and fear you more.

One Word Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the LORD

SPEAK WITH WISDOM

Proverbs 15:1-17 / Keywords 15:2

The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.

 

15:1 A gentle answer turns away wrath,

    but a harsh word stirs up anger.

2 The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge,

    but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.

3 The eyes of the Lord are everywhere,

    keeping watch on the wicked and the good.

4 The soothing tongue is a tree of life,

    but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.

5 A fool spurns a parent’s discipline,

    but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.

6 The house of the righteous contains great treasure,

    but the income of the wicked brings ruin.

7 The lips of the wise spread knowledge,

    but the hearts of fools are not upright.

8 The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked,

    but the prayer of the upright pleases him.

9 The Lord detests the way of the wicked,

    but he loves those who pursue righteousness.

10 Stern discipline awaits anyone who leaves the path;

    the one who hates correction will die.

11 Death and Destruction[a] lie open before the Lord—

    how much more do human hearts!

12 Mockers resent correction,

    so they avoid the wise.

13 A happy heart makes the face cheerful,

    but heartache crushes the spirit.

14 The discerning heart seeks knowledge,

    but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly.

15 All the days of the oppressed are wretched,

    but the cheerful heart has a continual feast.

16 Better a little with the fear of the Lord

    than great wealth with turmoil.

17 Better a small serving of vegetables with love

    than a fattened calf with hatred.

Footnotes

a. Proverbs 15:11 Hebrew Abaddon

1. Our words can have a powerful effect on others, for better or for worse.Words spoken gently can turn away wrath, but one harsh word can stir up anger (1). Therefore, the author of Proverbs encourages us to shape our words with wisdom. A wise person’s speech makes seeking knowledge and wisdom attractive to others (2a). Wisdom directs a person to speak soothing words which can be a tree of life to a suffering person (4a).

 

2. In contrast, fools pour out folly with their words (2b) and even feed on that folly (14b). Their perverse words can crush a person (4b). In fact, the New Testament compares the tongue to a destructive fire to emphasize its potential for evil (Ja 3:6). Are your words full of wisdom that bring life to others - or do your words tear others down?

 

3. What we say comes from our hearts (Mt 15:18). The heart of a fool is not pright. But the heart of the wise is discerning (14a). A heart that is wise is a heart that fears the LORD and knows that love is better than wealth (16,17). Let us pray for a heart that is wise so that the words we speak may be full of Godly wisdom and life.

 

Prayer Father, please forgive my sins of speaking foolishness and hurting others with my words. Change my heart so that I may speak wisdom.

One Word A wise tongue

THE LORD IS A SECURE FORTRESS

Proverbs 14:18-35 / Keywords 14:26

He who fears the LORD has a secure fortress, and for his children it will be a refuge.

 

 14:18 The simple inherit folly,

   but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

19 Evildoers will bow down in the presence of the good,

    and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

20 The poor are shunned even by their neighbors,

    but the rich have many friends.

21 It is a sin to despise one’s neighbor,

    but blessed is the one who is kind to the needy.

22 Do not those who plot evil go astray?

    But those who plan what is good find[a] love and faithfulness.

23 All hard work brings a profit,

    but mere talk leads only to poverty.

24 The wealth of the wise is their crown,

    but the folly of fools yields folly.

25 A truthful witness saves lives,

    but a false witness is deceitful.

26 Whoever fears the Lord has a secure fortress,

    and for their children it will be a refuge.

27 The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life,

    turning a person from the snares of death.

28 A large population is a king’s glory,

    but without subjects a prince is ruined.

29 Whoever is patient has great understanding,

    but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.

30 A heart at peace gives life to the body,

    but envy rots the bones.

31 Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker,

    but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.

32 When calamity comes, the wicked are brought down,

    but even in death the righteous seek refuge in God.

33 Wisdom reposes in the heart of the discerning

    and even among fools she lets herself be known.[b]

34 Righteousness exalts a nation,

    but sin condemns any people.

35 A king delights in a wise servant,

    but a shameful servant arouses his fury.

Footnotes

a. Proverbs 14:22 Or show

b. Proverbs 14:33 Hebrew; Septuagint and Syriac discerning / but in the heart of fools she is not known

1. Whatever we have is a blessing from God. The author of Proverbs observes that the poor are shunned, even by those close to them, whereas the rich have friends (20). God’s children do not reject and despise the poor. Doing so is a sin. Rather, we must be kind to the needy (21b). With wisdom, God’s children work hard which leads to profit and wealth. Profit and wealth are kindnesses from God which we can use to show kindness to the poor and needy. This honors God and practically demonstrates how to love our neighbor as ourselves (31). God has blessed us with wealth – material, spiritual, love, time, opportunities, etc. Let us honor God with our wealth!

 

2. Yet, wealth cannot provide lasting refuge and security. Only the LORD is an eternally secure fortress for us and for our children (26). No amount of material wealth can save a person from death. But fearing the LORD is a fountain of life and can turn a person from the snares of death (27). The wicked are brought down when calamity strikes. But the LORD our God, even in death, is a refuge and strength for the righteous (32, Ps 46:1). Will you fully trust God to be your fortress and refuge?

 

Prayer Father, thank you for being my true security and for being a refuge in times of trouble. Help me use what you’ve given to me to bless those who are in need.

One Word God is my refuge and fortress

GIVE THOUGHT TO YOUR STEPS

Proverbs 14:1-17 / Keywords 14:15

A simple man believes anything, but a prudent man gives thought to his steps.

 

14:1 The wise woman builds her house,

    but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.

2 Whoever fears the Lord walks uprightly,

    but those who despise him are devious in their ways.

3 A fool’s mouth lashes out with pride,

    but the lips of the wise protect them.

4 Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty,

    but from the strength of an ox come abundant harvests.

5 An honest witness does not deceive,

    but a false witness pours out lies.

6 The mocker seeks wisdom and finds none,

    but knowledge comes easily to the discerning.

7 Stay away from a fool,

    for you will not find knowledge on their lips.

8 The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways,

    but the folly of fools is deception.

9 Fools mock at making amends for sin,

    but goodwill is found among the upright.

10 Each heart knows its own bitterness,

    and no one else can share its joy.

11 The house of the wicked will be destroyed,

    but the tent of the upright will flourish.

12 There is a way that appears to be right,

    but in the end it leads to death.

13 Even in laughter the heart may ache,

    and rejoicing may end in grief.

14 The faithless will be fully repaid for their ways,

    and the good rewarded for theirs.

15 The simple believe anything,

    but the prudent give thought to their steps.

16 The wise fear the Lord and shun evil,

    but a fool is hotheaded and yet feels secure.

17 A quick-tempered person does foolish things,

    and the one who devises evil schemes is hated.

1. Knowledge and supposed wisdom are more abundant and accessible in the modern world than ever before. The latest technologies have made finding advice on almost any matter at any time and at anywhere possible. The amount of information is overwhelming in our world - but how can we know what is correct? How can we find true wisdom?

 

2. We start with humbly fearing the LORD (2,16,1:7, 3:5) and observing the fruit of wise people (1,3b,7). A mocker cannot find wisdom because of pride (6a). We also need discernment (6b) so that we do not live as the simpletons (15a) and those who follow worldly consensus do. For example, seeking riches and comfort seems to be common wisdom as we live our lives in the world, but in the end, it will lead to death (12, Lk 9:24-25).

 

3. Instead of living by worldly consensus or reacting to every advice or information that we receive, Proverbs encourages us to give thought to our ways (8a). We ought to carefully, and deliberately, give thought to the steps we are taking (15). When we give thought to our ways based on God’s word and pray to God, he will give us the wisdom we need (Ja 1:5). Are the steps you are taking in life leading you toward a deeper relationship with God and others in love?

 

Prayer Father, please give us discernment as we give thought to our steps and live with your wisdom.

One Word Be thoughtful and pray

WISDOM: A FOUNTAIN OF LIFE

Proverbs 13:1-25 / Keywords 13:14

The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death.

 

13:1 A wise son heeds his father’s instruction,

    but a mocker does not respond to rebukes.

2 From the fruit of their lips people enjoy good things,

    but the unfaithful have an appetite for violence.

3 Those who guard their lips preserve their lives,

    but those who speak rashly will come to ruin.

4 A sluggard’s appetite is never filled,

    but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.

5 The righteous hate what is false,

    but the wicked make themselves a stench

    and bring shame on themselves.

6 Righteousness guards the person of integrity,

    but wickedness overthrows the sinner.

7 One person pretends to be rich, yet has nothing;

    another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth.

8 A person’s riches may ransom their life,

    but the poor cannot respond to threatening rebukes.

9 The light of the righteous shines brightly,

    but the lamp of the wicked is snuffed out.

10 Where there is strife, there is pride,

    but wisdom is found in those who take advice.

11 Dishonest money dwindles away,

    but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.

12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick,

    but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.

13 Whoever scorns instruction will pay for it,

    but whoever respects a command is rewarded.

14 The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life,

    turning a person from the snares of death.

15 Good judgment wins favor,

    but the way of the unfaithful leads to their destruction.[a]

16 All who are prudent act with[b] knowledge,

    but fools expose their folly.

17 A wicked messenger falls into trouble,

    but a trustworthy envoy brings healing.

18 Whoever disregards discipline comes to poverty and shame,

    but whoever heeds correction is honored.

19 A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul,

    but fools detest turning from evil.

20 Walk with the wise and become wise,

    for a companion of fools suffers harm.

21 Trouble pursues the sinner,

    but the righteous are rewarded with good things.

22 A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children,

    but a sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous.

23 An unplowed field produces food for the poor,

    but injustice sweeps it away.

24 Whoever spares the rod hates their children,

    but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.

25 The righteous eat to their hearts’ content,

    but the stomach of the wicked goes hungry.

Footnotes

a. Proverbs 13:15 Septuagint and Syriac; the meaning of the Hebrew for this phrase is uncertain.

b. Proverbs 13:16 Or prudent protect themselves through

1. The impact of a person’s speech (2,3), the fruit of hard work and diligence (4,11), and how the righteous live (5-6,9,21,25) are all discussed in this chapter. Underlying all these teachings is a person’s attitude toward instruction and correction. Though we desire the positive results from the teachings of Proverbs, we are also sinful human beings. We naturally default to living according to our pride and feelings. How receptive are you to the instruction of those who are wiser than you?

 

2. Receiving instruction begins with a humble heart towards our Father’s instruction and his rebukes at our foolishness (1), and this process continues throughout life. Pride brings strife (10a). Scorning instruction has negative consequences (13a). When we keep company with fools, surely harm, poverty, and shame will follow (18,20). However, when we humbly take advice from the wise, we ourselves grow in wisdom. Respecting a command (13b) and heeding correction (18b), especially from God’s word, will bring reward and honor. We should surround ourselves with wise people.

 

3. The teaching of the wise gives life and turns us from death (14). This is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ who has the words of eternal life (Jn 6:68). Will you humbly listen to Jesus today?

 

Prayer Father, your word is a fountain of life. Give me an open heart to receive your instruction.

One Word A right attitude toward wisdom

THE WAY OF LIFE

Proverbs 12:15-28 / Keywords 12:28

In the way of righteousness there is life; along that path is immortality.

 

The way of fools seems right to them,

12:15 but the wise listen to advice.

16 Fools show their annoyance at once,

    but the prudent overlook an insult.

17 An honest witness tells the truth,

    but a false witness tells lies.

18 The words of the reckless pierce like swords,

    but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

19 Truthful lips endure forever,

    but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.

20 Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil,

    but those who promote peace have joy.

21 No harm overtakes the righteous,

    but the wicked have their fill of trouble.

22 The Lord detests lying lips,

    but he delights in people who are trustworthy.

23 The prudent keep their knowledge to themselves,

    but a fool’s heart blurts out folly.

24 Diligent hands will rule,

    but laziness ends in forced labor.

25 Anxiety weighs down the heart,

    but a kind word cheers it up.

26 The righteous choose their friends carefully,

    but the way of the wicked leads them astray.

27 The lazy do not roast[a] any game,

    but the diligent feed on the riches of the hunt.

28 In the way of righteousness there is life;

    along that path is immortality.

Footnotes

a. Proverbs 12:27 The meaning of the Hebrew for this word is uncertain.

1. In the way of righteousness, there is life (28). Wisdom from God is not rocket science. You don’t even need to have a college degree to receive it. Righteousness is about valuing and honoring life. Jesus came to give life to the full (Jn 10:10). There are many things that steal our joy. Although Jesus didn't come to rid the world of hardships, suffering, or injustice, he did come to be with us in our suffering and to give us hope and resurrection from the depth of sin and death.

 

2. Jesus came to us in our sickness, loss, and rejection that we may realize how much God cares for our life and to give us his grace so we, too, can live a life of love and compassion for others. We are Jesus’ disciples when we love one another. When we know that God loves us, life always finds a way to blossom and grow even beyond the suffering and doom of the world. While some may build rockets to escape, we may find God's love and mercy to endure in our bodies and our communities in this world and beyond.

 

Prayer Lord, your wisdom gives life to even the most lost causes. May we receive your wisdom that endures all the world’s storms.

One Word The way of life

WORDS AND WORKS

Proverbs 12:1-14 / Keywords 12:14

From the fruit of his lips a man is filled with good things as surely as the work of his hands rewards him.

 

12:1 Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge,

    but whoever hates correction is stupid.

2 Good people obtain favor from the Lord,

    but he condemns those who devise wicked schemes.

3 No one can be established through wickedness,

    but the righteous cannot be uprooted.

4 A wife of noble character is her husband’s crown,

    but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.

5 The plans of the righteous are just,

    but the advice of the wicked is deceitful.

6 The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood,

    but the speech of the upright rescues them.

7 The wicked are overthrown and are no more,

    but the house of the righteous stands firm.

8 A person is praised according to their prudence,

    and one with a warped mind is despised.

9 Better to be a nobody and yet have a servant

    than pretend to be somebody and have no food.

10 The righteous care for the needs of their animals,

    but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel.

11 Those who work their land will have abundant food,

    but those who chase fantasies have no sense.

12 The wicked desire the stronghold of evildoers,

    but the root of the righteous endures.

13 Evildoers are trapped by their sinful talk,

    and so the innocent escape trouble.

14 From the fruit of their lips people are filled with good things,

    and the work of their hands brings them reward.

1. We are filled not just by what goes into our mouths but what comes out of our mouths and into our ears and dwells in our hearts. What we say can destroy or build up others, so we must be careful to use our words thoughtfully and meaningfully. A kind and encouraging word can refresh a weary or anxious soul. A wise word can help someone learn and grow in wisdom. Brutal honesty is sometimes just brutal and not helpful, but words of love, sprinkled with humility, can build up others.

 

2. Sometimes, we long for an easy reward, such as working less and getting paid more. But no reward comes from idle hands. As God is constantly working (Jn 5:17), we must work to build a rewarding and blessed life, family, and community. We need to rest but avoid being idle and complacent. The kingdom of God advances when we are the hands and feet of Christ to the world. The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few (Mat 9:37). What work is God calling me to do today?

 

Prayer Lord, you fill us with good things. May we use our words and hands to build others up rather than tearing down.

One Word Speak and work for good

GENEROSITY

Proverbs 11:16-31 / Keywords 11:25

A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

 

11:16 A kindhearted woman gains honor,

    but ruthless men gain only wealth.

17 Those who are kind benefit themselves,

    but the cruel bring ruin on themselves.

18 A wicked person earns deceptive wages,

    but the one who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward.

19 Truly the righteous attain life,

    but whoever pursues evil finds death.

20 The Lord detests those whose hearts are perverse,

    but he delights in those whose ways are blameless.

21 Be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished,

    but those who are righteous will go free.

22 Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout

    is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion.

23 The desire of the righteous ends only in good,

    but the hope of the wicked only in wrath.

24 One person gives freely, yet gains even more;

    another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.

25 A generous person will prosper;

    whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.

26 People curse the one who hoards grain,

    but they pray God’s blessing on the one who is willing to sell.

27 Whoever seeks good finds favor,

    but evil comes to one who searches for it.

28 Those who trust in their riches will fall,

    but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf.

29 Whoever brings ruin on their family will inherit only wind,

    and the fool will be servant to the wise.

30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life,

    and the one who is wise saves lives.

31 If the righteous receive their due on earth,

    how much more the ungodly and the sinner!

1. Have you ever felt offended by another's careless words or actions and one thing led to another and a lot more damage occurred than ever imagined? You are not alone. We all make mistakes and have hurt others and have been hurt.

 

2. What if we believed that the offender was actually trying their very best, made an honest mistake, or were misunderstood? Trust is made stronger when we are generous rather than quick to condemn and point out faults. Being generous doesn't mean being a pushover, but it is being curious before accusing. It is responding with care rather than reacting. Even if people did wrong, a little generosity can leave open the possibility for restoration and reconciliation.

 

3. Jesus generously healed ten lepers, even though only one came back to thank him. Jesus fed, healed, and taught many regardless of whether they chose to follow him. Jesus invested in 12 disciples even though they would all abandon him in his most vulnerable moment. God gives generously and indiscriminately to all who seek him.

 

Prayer Lord, help me to be generous in my relationship with others. Help me not to be quick to judge or condemn.

One Word Be generous

HUMILITY

Proverbs 11:1-15 / Keywords 11:2

When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.

 

11:1 The Lord detests dishonest scales,

    but accurate weights find favor with him.

2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace,

    but with humility comes wisdom.

3 The integrity of the upright guides them,

    but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.

4 Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath,

    but righteousness delivers from death.

5 The righteousness of the blameless makes their paths straight,

    but the wicked are brought down by their own wickedness.

6 The righteousness of the upright delivers them,

    but the unfaithful are trapped by evil desires.

7 Hopes placed in mortals die with them;

    all the promise of[a] their power comes to nothing.

8 The righteous person is rescued from trouble,

    and it falls on the wicked instead.

9 With their mouths the godless destroy their neighbors,

    but through knowledge the righteous escape.

10 When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices;

    when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy.

11 Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted,

    but by the mouth of the wicked it is destroyed.

12 Whoever derides their neighbor has no sense,

    but the one who has understanding holds their tongue.

13 A gossip betrays a confidence,

    but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.

14 For lack of guidance a nation falls,

    but victory is won through many advisers.

15 Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer,

    but whoever refuses to shake hands in pledge is safe.

Footnotes

a. Proverbs 11:7 Two Hebrew manuscripts; most Hebrew manuscripts, Vulgate, Syriac and Targum When the wicked die, their hope perishes; / all they expected from

1. Wisdom is vast and varied. We may be wise about one thing but fail miserably at others. Pride is universal and is present in even the brightest of people. Although King Solomon brought great prosperity and peace during his lifetime, he left the kingdom of Israel in great disarray after his death (1 Kings 11). On the other hand, Jesus did not seek power and glory in his time on earth. Instead, he died on the cross and became the resurrected Lord of God's kingdom which has endured and expanded beyond the rise and fall of many empires. Jesus is God who came to earth born as a helpless baby in a manger. He came to love the most needy and wretched people, approachable and welcoming to all.

 

2. Pride and arrogance have been the downfall of many powerful people and have hurt many more in their pathway. A little humility goes a long way in creating a community of love and respect that endures for many generations. It takes humility to love and accept all kinds of people, to repent and ask for help, and to recover from failures with dignity and new hope.

 

Prayer Lord, help me to be even a little less arrogant today than I was yesterday. Help me to practice the humility of Christ, who did not seek to be served, but to give himself for others.

One Word Practice humility

JOY

Proverbs 10:19-32 / Keywords 10:28

The prospect of the righteous is joy, but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing.

 

10:19 Sin is not ended by multiplying words,

    but the prudent hold their tongues.

20 The tongue of the righteous is choice silver,

    but the heart of the wicked is of little value.

21 The lips of the righteous nourish many,

    but fools die for lack of sense.

22 The blessing of the Lord brings wealth,

    without painful toil for it.

23 A fool finds pleasure in wicked schemes,

    but a person of understanding delights in wisdom.

24 What the wicked dread will overtake them;

    what the righteous desire will be granted.

25 When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone,

    but the righteous stand firm forever.

26 As vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes,

    so are sluggards to those who send them.

27 The fear of the Lord adds length to life,

    but the years of the wicked are cut short.

28 The prospect of the righteous is joy,

    but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing.

29 The way of the Lord is a refuge for the blameless,

    but it is the ruin of those who do evil.

30 The righteous will never be uprooted,

    but the wicked will not remain in the land.

31 From the mouth of the righteous comes the fruit of wisdom,

    but a perverse tongue will be silenced.

32 The lips of the righteous know what finds favor,

    but the mouth of the wicked only what is perverse.

1. There are many "blessings" that we seek out in the world. It’s easy for us to think: If only we have enough money, are healthy enough, beautiful enough, or holy enough, we will be satisfied. But these are never enough and end up amounting to disappointment in the end. Beauty fades, the body weakens, our holier than thou theology makes us self-righteous and divisive, and money can only go so far.

 

2. "The prospect of the righteous is joy." Joy is deeper than fleeting pleasures. Jesus' coming was heralded as good news of great joy to all people (Lk 2:10). In the Bible, joy is often expressed in relation to what one receives from God and also in relation to others' well-being. There is joy when we realize that God's love is greater than all our sins and shortcomings. God has come to help us in our sufferings and failures. He gives us new life and hope. God's joy is when one lost child is found, and we share his joy when we care for and help others in their need. Joy is multiplied when shared with others.

 

Prayer Lord, give us the joy of your salvation. You came to love us in our lost ness. May our joy increase as we share in your love for others.

One Word Be joyful

LOVE COVERS OVER ALL WRONGS

Proverbs 10:1-18 / Keywords 10:12

Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers over Thanks all wrongs.

 

Proverbs of Solomon

10:1 The proverbs of Solomon:

A wise son brings joy to his father,

    but a foolish son brings grief to his mother.

2 Ill-gotten treasures have no lasting value,

    but righteousness delivers from death.

3 The Lord does not let the righteous go hungry,

    but he thwarts the craving of the wicked.

4 Lazy hands make for poverty,

    but diligent hands bring wealth.

5 He who gathers crops in summer is a prudent son,

    but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son.

6 Blessings crown the head of the righteous,

    but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.[a]

7 The name of the righteous is used in blessings,[b]

    but the name of the wicked will rot.

8 The wise in heart accept commands,

    but a chattering fool comes to ruin.

9 Whoever walks in integrity walks securely,

    but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.

10 Whoever winks maliciously causes grief,

    and a chattering fool comes to ruin.

11 The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life,

    but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.

12 Hatred stirs up conflict,

    but love covers over all wrongs.

13 Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning,

    but a rod is for the back of one who has no sense.

14 The wise store up knowledge,

    but the mouth of a fool invites ruin.

15 The wealth of the rich is their fortified city,

    but poverty is the ruin of the poor.

16 The wages of the righteous is life,

    but the earnings of the wicked are sin and death.

17 Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life,

    but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.

18 Whoever conceals hatred with lying lips

    and spreads slander is a fool.

Footnotes

a. Proverbs 10:6 Or righteous, / but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence

b. Proverbs 10:7 See Gen. 48:20.

1. Jesus is wisdom in the flesh. One of the most, if not the most, notable attributes of Jesus and God is love. Jesus did not come to judge but to love and forgive a sinful and lost humanity. Jesus sought out the outcasts and sinners including tax collectors and prostitutes. In love, he turned their failures into fertile soil where God's love took root and blossomed into new and beautiful life.

 

2. Having wisdom is not about being superior to others, but it is growing to love and embrace all people, including those who are deemed wicked. In love, we reconcile with others and help others be reconciled to God. We should not create legalistic divisions but have mercy and compassion on others. Doing this is not easy, but nothing meaningful comes easy. We should not be lazy to work towards loving others enough that covers over all their wrongs. We can do this by knowing God's love for us.

 

Prayer Lord, your greatest wisdom is love that covers, forgives, and heals all our wrongs. May we also do so to others.

One Word Love one another