It was more than 25 years ago when someone suggested to me to make Proverbs a part of my every day life. This is something I have shared many times here in the e-devotion and from the pulpit and with countless people. It is important that we take in the word of God each and every day.
Proverbs has 31 chapters and most months have 31 days. That means reading one chapter per day is a great addition for any of us that make that choice.
I have experienced this truth. Many have become examples of how God’s truth impacts their lives in this way. It is awesome. Really. This is one of those things that I say loud and proud, “test God.” His word changes us. It changes everything.
How fitting it is that today is November 3rd. It is the day some would choose to read Proverbs 3. This chapter and some of those verses bring us light and love and direction. I need this wisdom. Furthermore, I want this conviction to always be mine.
Check it out. Proverbs 3 (from the New Living Translation) or at least part to it:
1-2 My child, never forget the things I have taught you. Store my commands in your heart. If you do this, you will live many years, and your life will be satisfying.
What an awesome place and an even stronger plan for children to follow great parents.
3-4 Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will earn a good reputation.
Two of the things that I believe should be deep in each of us. It is good to have this kind of favor.
5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.
Those might be the best verses in all the chapter. It might be the most important ones too.
7-8 Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil. Then you will have healing for your body and strength for your bones.
I am just going to leave those right there.
9-10 Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce. Then he will fill your barns with grain, and your vats will overflow with good wine.
Honor God above everything. The results will be more than you will expect.
11-12 My child, don’t reject the Lord’s discipline, and don’t be upset when he corrects you. For the Lord corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights.
More about a great home, good parents and kids who follow what is best.
13-18 Joyful is the person who finds wisdom, the one who gains understanding. For wisdom is more profitable than silver, and her wages are better than gold. Wisdom is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. She offers you long life in her right hand, and riches and honor in her left. She will guide you down delightful paths; all her ways are satisfying. Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her; happy are those who hold her tightly.
Wisdom is an important part of our lives. Another reason to add Proverbs to each and every day. I need God’s wisdom.
21-26 My child, don’t lose sight of common sense and discernment. Hang on to them, for they will refresh your soul. They are like jewels on a necklace. They keep you safe on your way, and your feet will not stumble. You can go to bed without fear; you will lie down and sleep soundly. You need not be afraid of sudden disaster or the destruction that comes upon the wicked, for the Lord is your security. He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap.
Powerful words that change our lives. I want that kind of peace as well as this perspective when things are falling apart.
I leave you with a few more helps, points to think about and a way to really live…
27-31 Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it’s in your power to help them. If you can help your neighbor now, don’t say, “Come back tomorrow, and then I’ll help you.” Don’t plot harm against your neighbor, for those who live nearby trust you. Don’t pick a fight without reason, when no one has done you harm. Don’t envy violent people or copy their ways.
32-35 Such wicked people are detestable to the Lord, but he offers his friendship to the godly. The Lord curses the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the upright. The Lord mocks the mockers but is gracious to the humble. The wise inherit honor, but fools are put to shame!
Take the challenge. Make Proverbs a part of each day of your life.
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