Moving from Obligation to Adoration in Your Bible Reading
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We say that God’s Word is life. But do we really believe it? The truth is that often we sit down with our Bibles to read because of obligation, but let’s think about that. In our attempts at perseverance and dedication, devotion can sometimes turn into duty, leading to a dull experience. Gradually, we become apathetic, and our daily reading becomes another checklist item rather than an opportunity to know and adore the God of the universe.
Yes, we can continue feeling God’s Word is an obligation. Or we can learn to cultivate a deep appetite for knowing Him. Instead of thinking about it as just another thing to do, we invite the Creator of the universe to be with us when we sit down. We are telling Him that His truths are important. This is how it should be, right? Our goal should be to bless the Lord by lifting our hearts in adoration. Everything changes if we sit down and read the Bible with this mindset.
More than a Habit
If you’ve been in church for any time, you’ve been taught how to create a habit out of Bible reading. I confess I’ve taught this very thing. And while it is important for us to make a habit of setting aside time, we should never consider reading God’s Word as just another task. How do we do this?
- Invite the Holy Spirit to join in your reading.
We start by inviting the Holy Spirit to speak to our hearts. Acknowledge when it’s hard and dry. Ask Him for a new hunger and appetite for His Word. Don’t be afraid to mix up your routine or ask Him to help you read old words with new eyes. The Holy Spirit is our Helper, teaching us all things and helping us remember what Jesus taught. Unlike any other book, the Bible is living and active by the power of the Holy Spirit. - Ask God to renew your hunger for His Word.
It’s okay to confess how we feel about Scripture. Recognizing apathy isn’t a failure. Instead, it’s a crucial first step. Then, we can step back and say, “Something is off here. I am reading the words of God, and I want to know the living God and commune with Him rather than just checking off a box.” This desire for genuine connection is the essence of moving from obligation to adoration. - Plan to do what you read.
As we sit down with our Bibles, we need to plan to take God’s Word seriously and read it, intending to do what it says. We ask, “How can I be living and active with your Word?” - Ask God to meet you in the moment.
Invite Him into your Bible reading, transforming duty into a heartfelt dialogue of adoration. He loves to meet us. He delights in seeing us faithfully pursue Him. - Read the exciting parts.
Consider reading parts of the Bible that you’ve never read before. There are parts of the Bible that are far from boring. For example, in 1 Samuel 27, David, fearing for his life, seeks refuge in Philistine territory and becomes a servant of Achish, settling in Ziklag with his men for over a year. In 1 Samuel 28, Saul, desperate for guidance, visits a medium to summon the spirit of the deceased prophet Samuel, who tells him of his impending death and rejection by God. Despite all this turmoil, we can turn to Psalm 56 and see David’s heart—who trusts in God despite facing difficult circumstances, pleading for mercy and protection, and ultimately praising God. This is adoration amidst adversity, a model for transforming our obligations into heartfelt worship. Nothing boring about any of that, right? - Whisper prayers of adoration even before you read.
When we turn to God with a heart of adoration, we open ourselves to profound transformation and deeper communion with God. We see God in the moment, and it opens our eyes, minds, and hearts to every moment in our lives–yes, God is there, too. A simple prayer is, “Lord, you are amazing. Help me see that today—in Your Word and every part of my life.” That is a prayer He loves to answer, transforming our sense of obligation into vibrant adoration. It’s a prayer you can pray today!
Want more insight? Join us in reading Job on the Daily Bible podcast! 🎧 LISTEN & 📺 WATCH
Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
May 27
Proverbs 1-4
The Importance of Wisdom
The book of Proverbs is a rich collection of wisdom literature, primarily attributed to Solomon. It’s structured into six units, with chapters 1-9 serving as a general prologue. A recurring theme is that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, a phrase unique to Israelite poetry.
Proverbs 4:13 urges us to “Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.”
Proverbs 1
Proverbs 1:8-9 emphasizes the importance of parental teaching:
“Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. They are a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck.”
Key lessons include:
- The importance of teaching our children about dangers and wisdom.
- The consequences of ignoring wisdom: “For they hated knowledge and chose not to fear the LORD. They rejected my advice and paid no attention when I corrected them. Therefore, they must eat the bitter fruit of living their own way, choking on their own schemes.” (Proverbs 1:29-31)
Proverbs 2
This chapter lists desirable attributes to seek: wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and insight. God provides these to protect and guide the faithful.
Proverbs 3
Proverbs 3:21 encourages us to maintain common sense and discernment:
“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.”
Proverbs 3:5-6 is a well-known passage:
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Proverbs 4
A reinforcement of earlier lessons: don’t forget wisdom and guard your heart diligently. The heart is described as the wellspring of life, emphasizing the need for vigilance in what influences it.
Word of the Day: Wisdom
Definition: The quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment; the quality of being wise.
Application #1: Seeking Wisdom in Today’s World
In an age of information, true wisdom is often overlooked. Young people today may fill their minds with fleeting entertainment rather than seeking lasting wisdom. To seek wisdom:
- Fear of the Lord: Have reverence and awe for God.
- Accept Correction: Be open to learning from mistakes and receiving guidance.
Proverbs 3:11-12 reminds us:
“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.”
Application #2: Guarding Our Hearts
Proverbs urges us to guard our hearts against negative influences. Be mindful of what we consume and who we spend time with.
Jerry Bridges notes, “As Satan keeps special watch here, so must we keep special watch as well. If the citadel is taken, the whole town must surrender. If the heart is captured, the whole man—affections, desires, motives, pursuits—will be handed over.”
Personal Takeaway
Reflect on how you can apply these principles of wisdom and vigilance in your life. How can you seek God’s wisdom and guard your heart against distractions?
May 28
Proverbs 5-7
Focusing on Preparation
Today, our focus is on three chapters from the Book of Proverbs: Proverbs 5, 6, and 7. These chapters are rich in wisdom and offer practical advice for living a life pleasing to God. As we delve into these passages, we’ll highlight the Word of the Day: Prepare, and draw out personal takeaways to make the teachings relevant to our daily lives.
Proverbs 5: The Peril of Immorality
In Proverbs 5, we find a father urgently warning his son about the dangers of succumbing to the allure of an immoral woman. Her lips may seem sweet like honey, but in the end, she leads to destruction and death. The father’s plea is clear: avoid the temptation at all costs and stay true to the one God has given you.
This chapter resonates deeply as it highlights the deceptive nature of sin. Sexual sin, in particular, can quickly ensnare a person, bringing regret and pain. The analogy to Eve’s temptation in the Garden of Eden reminds us that sin often appears desirable but ultimately leads to ruin. God sees every path we take, and He examines our actions. This is a call to stay vigilant and avoid the traps of sin, whatever form they may take.
Proverbs 6: Practical Wisdom for Daily Life
Proverbs 6 offers a wealth of practical advice, cautioning against unwise financial agreements and encouraging diligence and hard work. The example of the industrious ant serves as a reminder of the value of preparation and planning. This chapter also addresses the severe consequences of adultery, emphasizing the destruction it brings to one’s life and reputation.
A notable part of this chapter is the list of seven things that the Lord detests:
- Haughty eyes (pride)
- A lying tongue
- Hands that shed innocent blood
- A heart that devises wicked schemes
- Feet that are quick to rush into evil
- A false witness who pours out lies
- A person who stirs up conflict in the community
These verses remind us that sin is multifaceted, encompassing our actions, words, thoughts, attitudes, and the impact we have on others. Understanding what God hates helps us align our lives with His will and seek His forgiveness when we fall short.
Proverbs 7: The Power of Temptation
Proverbs 7 continues the theme of avoiding sexual immorality, with the father urging his son to guard his heart and obey God’s commands. The seductive tactics of the immoral woman are vividly described, highlighting how temptation can be alluring but ultimately destructive.
The commentary on this chapter underscores the power of experience to shape our habits. Surrendering to temptation strengthens its hold on us, making it increasingly difficult to resist in the future. This is a powerful reminder of the importance of building godly habits and relying on God’s strength to overcome temptation.
Word of the Day: Prepare
Prepare: To make ready beforehand.
The wisdom in Proverbs serves to prepare us by teaching what is right and wrong, and giving advice on how to please God. As Proverbs 6:20-22 says:
“My son, keep your father’s command and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. Bind them always on your heart; fasten them around your neck. When you walk, they will guide you; when you sleep, they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you.”
Preparation is a theme that runs throughout our lives. Whether it’s planning a garden, preparing for a trip, or guiding our children, taking the time to prepare is crucial.
Personal Takeaway
Reflecting on these chapters, I am reminded of the importance of preparation in my spiritual journey. Just as my parents prepared the garden for planting, I need to prepare my heart to receive God’s wisdom. This involves studying His Word, seeking His guidance, and building habits that honor Him.
Moreover, understanding what God hates and recognizing the seductive nature of sin helps me stay vigilant. I am thankful for Jesus, who faced God’s wrath on our behalf and offers forgiveness and freedom from sin. With the Holy Spirit’s help, I can live differently, aligning my life with God’s will.
Conclusion
Proverbs 5, 6, and 7 provide timeless wisdom that prepares us to navigate life’s challenges. By embracing these teachings, we can avoid the pitfalls of sin and live in a way that honors God. Let’s take to heart the lessons from these chapters, prepare ourselves with God’s wisdom, and strive to live lives marked by righteousness and integrity.
What insights did you gain from today’s readings? How can you apply the wisdom of Proverbs in your daily life? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
May 29
Proverbs 8-10
Seeking God in Proverbs
Welcome to today’s blog post accompanying the Daily Bible Podcast! Our focus is on three chapters from the Book of Proverbs: Proverbs 8, 9, and 10. These chapters are rich in wisdom and provide practical advice for living a life pleasing to God. As we delve into these passages, we’ll highlight the Word of the Day: Seeking, and draw out personal takeaways to make the teachings relevant to our daily lives.
Proverbs 8: The Beauty of Wisdom
Campbell Morgan described Proverbs 8 as having “nothing greater or grander in all the Biblical literature, as setting forth the beauty and grace of that wisdom which has the fear of Jehovah as its chief part.” In this chapter, we turn from the adulterous woman to Lady Wisdom, who offers invaluable treasures.
Wisdom calls out to us from hilltops and town gates, urging us to embrace what is right, true, and wholesome. Her gifts—knowledge and understanding—are more precious than rubies, silver, or gold. Wisdom teaches us to hate evil, pride, arrogance, corruption, and perverse speech. The close connection between wisdom and God brings joy to those who follow, listen, watch, and wait for her.
Proverbs 9: The Invitation of Wisdom and Folly
In Proverbs 9, wisdom and folly are personified, each inviting us to follow them. Wisdom hosts a feast in her seven-pillared mansion, symbolizing perfection and stability. In contrast, Folly lures the naive with stolen pleasures, leading them toward death and the grave.
Proverbs 9:12 states, “If you become wise, you will be the one to benefit. If you scorn wisdom, you will be the one to suffer.” This chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom, understanding, and virtuous behavior, which lead to life.
This theme of a banquet is echoed in Matthew 22, where Jesus describes a great banquet and the invitations extended. Both passages highlight the choice between following wisdom or folly, representing godly versus worldly concerns.
Proverbs 10: The Proverbs of Solomon
With Proverbs 10, the book transitions from introductory teachings to a collection of Solomon’s wise sayings. These short, insightful proverbs often compare and contrast with each other, providing practical guidance for daily living.
For example, Proverbs 10:31 says, “The mouth of the godly person gives wise advice, but the tongue that deceives will be cut off.” Similarly, Proverbs 10:12 states, “Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all sins,” which is echoed in 1 Peter 4:8: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”
Word of the Day: Seeking
Definition: Attempting to find something.
Proverbs 8:34-36 illustrates what seeking looks like:
“Blessed are those who listen to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For those who find me find life and receive favor from the LORD. But those who fail to find me harm themselves; all who hate me love death.”
Seeking wisdom involves listening, watching daily, and waiting. It’s akin to a scholar waiting eagerly at the door of a school, longing to learn what is good and right. We are always seeking something, whether it’s knowledge, entertainment, or comfort. True seeking should focus on godly pursuits rather than self-indulgence.
Psalm 27:4 reflects a heart that seeks God:
“The one thing I ask of the LORD— the thing I seek most— is to live in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, delighting in the LORD’s perfections and meditating in his Temple.”
Personal Takeaway
Reflecting on these chapters, I see the profound importance of seeking wisdom in my spiritual journey. Just as my parents prepared our garden, I need to prepare my heart to receive God’s wisdom. This involves studying His Word, seeking His guidance, and building habits that honor Him.
Understanding what God hates and recognizing the seductive nature of sin helps me stay vigilant. I am grateful for Jesus, who faced God’s wrath on our behalf and offers forgiveness and freedom from sin. With the Holy Spirit’s help, I can align my life with God’s will and seek to live differently.
Application #1: Seeking Wisdom Daily
Proverbs 8:34-36 encourages us to seek wisdom actively. This means listening, watching daily, and waiting for wisdom. Just as a scholar eagerly awaits learning, we should eagerly seek God’s wisdom in our lives.
Application #2: Modeling Seeking for Our Children
Solomon grew up observing his father David’s example, which profoundly impacted him. As parents, our duty is to model seeking God for our children. Ephesians 6:4 instructs fathers to bring up their children “in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” Our actions speak louder than words, and seeking God benefits us and sets an example for the next generation.
Conclusion
Proverbs 8, 9, and 10 provide timeless wisdom that prepares us to navigate life’s challenges. By embracing these teachings, we can avoid the pitfalls of sin and live in a way that honors God. Let’s take to heart the lessons from these chapters, prepare ourselves with God’s wisdom, and strive to live lives marked by righteousness and integrity.
What insights did you gain from today’s readings? How can you apply the wisdom of Proverbs in your daily life? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
May 30
Proverbs 11-13
Encouragement when Hopes are Deferred
In today’s readings, we dive into the wisdom of Solomon in Proverbs 11, 12, and 13. Solomon, known as the wisest man in all the world, shares timeless truths through these chapters. The Hebrew word for wisdom, “khokhmah” (hook-mah), signifies not just knowledge but also skill and applied knowledge. As we explore these proverbs, let’s focus on how to apply these teachings in our daily lives. Remember, these proverbs are probabilities, not promises. They guide us on how to live rightly and treat each other kindly in a broken world.
Proverbs 11: The Way of the Righteous and the Wicked
Key Themes:
- Humility and Wisdom
- Righteousness and Wisdom
Proverbs 11 is filled with contrasts between the righteous and the wicked. It emphasizes that godly people are rewarded while evil people are punished. Here are a few highlights:
- Humility and Wisdom: “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” (Proverbs 11:2)
- Righteous Living: “The righteousness of the blameless makes their paths straight, but the wicked are brought down by their own wickedness.” (Proverbs 11:5)
The humble person knows that walking in God’s ways is the right way to live. We are encouraged to be gracious, giving, truthful, and honest, avoiding gossip and deceit.
Proverbs 12: Conduct and Character
Key Verse:
- “The wicked die and disappear, but the family of the godly stands firm.” (Proverbs 12:7)
Proverbs 12 reflects on the conduct and character of people and the consequences of their actions. It provides a detailed description of the godly:
- The plans of the godly are just.
- The words of the godly save lives.
- The godly care for their animals.
- The godly are well-rooted and bear their own fruit.
- The godly escape trouble.
- No harm comes to the godly.
- The godly give good advice to their friends.
- The way of the godly leads to life.
While these statements are generally true, we recognize that godly people still face trouble and harm. However, those who follow God experience fewer of these difficulties compared to those who don’t.
Proverbs 13: Listening to Wise Advice
Key Verse:
- “Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.” (Proverbs 13:20)
Proverbs 13 begins with a father advising his son to listen and accept wise correction. This chapter underscores the importance of choosing wise companions and heeding their advice.
Steven Curtis Chapman’s song “Walk with the Wise” beautifully encapsulates this idea:
“If we walk with the wise, we will grow wise,
And if we walk in the light, then our path will be bright.”
This song reminds us that wisdom is often passed down from those who have already walked the path we are on. By learning from their experiences, we too can grow wise.
Word of the Day: Defer
Definition: To put off to a later time; postpone.
Key Verse:
- “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life.” (Proverbs 13:12)
When our hope isn’t in the Lord but in earthly things, we can easily grow weary. Deferred hope can lead to a heavy heart. I have experienced this personally, as I’m sure many of you have. But even when we can’t see it, God has a plan, and we must remain faithful that He will bring that plan to fruition.
One commentary I read stated, “People can bear frustration only so long; they must have encouragement to continue. Perhaps believers should make it part of their task to help others realize their hopes whenever possible.” This is profoundly true. Encouragement can be scarce, but it is crucial. Reflecting on this verse now, I wonder if my hope has been misplaced in the past, wanting God to answer my prayers in my timing, not His.
Now, looking back, I see how life has bloomed in unexpected ways. There is gratitude and awe for all He has provided. If you feel heartsick from deferred hope, grieve the loss but set your hope on our Savior. He wants to fulfill our dreams and longings if they align with His will.
Personal Takeaway
God’s Word helps us navigate personal situations and emotions. It provides examples and teachings that guide our lives. Charles Spurgeon wisely said, “Nobody ever outgrows Scripture; the book widens and deepens with our years.” The Bible remains relevant, offering comfort, direction, and hope as we grow in understanding.
The more I read God’s Word, the more I want to read it. Let’s immerse ourselves in these proverbs, learn from them, and apply their wisdom to our lives. By doing so, we align ourselves with God’s will and experience the richness of His blessings.
May 31
Proverbs 14-16
Reverence for God in our Daily Lives
Today’s readings take us through Proverbs 14, 15, and 16, offering profound insights into the “fear of the Lord”—a deep reverence for God’s knowledge, power, and direction. This reverence impacts our actions, decisions, and character, guiding us to live with integrity and righteousness.
Proverbs 14: The Fear of the Lord
Key Verses:
- Proverbs 14:2: “Whoever fears the LORD walks uprightly, but those who despise him are devious in their ways.”
- Proverbs 14:27: “The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death.”
Reverence for God leads to upright living and serves as a source of spiritual nourishment, helping us embrace the abundant life God desires for us.
Proverbs 15: The Power of Our Words
Proverbs 15 emphasizes the impact of our words. Gentle and wise words can defuse anger and bring life, much like a tree offering shade and fruit.
Key Concepts:
- A soft answer turns away anger.
- Gentle words are a tree of life.
- Wise individuals listen to constructive criticism.
- Fools despise correction and discipline.
By seeking knowledge, thinking before speaking, and surrounding ourselves with wise advisors, we can harness the power of our words for good.
Proverbs 16: Living with Integrity and Trust in God
Key Verses:
- Proverbs 16:3: “Commit your actions to the LORD, and your plans will succeed.”
- Proverbs 16:8: “Better to have little, with godliness, than to be rich and dishonest.”
- Proverbs 16:9: “We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.”
Proverbs 16 highlights the importance of living with integrity, humility, and trust in God. By committing our actions to the Lord, we align our plans with His will, leading to success and righteousness.
Word of the Day: Reverence
Definition: Deep respect for someone or something. It comes from a gesture indicative of respect, like a bow or curtsy.
Key Verse:
- Proverbs 14:26: “In the fear of the LORD one has strong confidence, and his children will have a refuge.”
Reverence for God provides confidence and assurance in His faithfulness, extending blessings to future generations. It’s a powerful legacy that can impact our children and their descendants.
Application #1: Generational Impact of Reverence
Reverence for God can have a lasting impact across generations. A family deeply rooted in faith can stand strong even in challenging circumstances. My daughter Leslie’s family, part of the Christian Brethren Church in the Czech Republic, exemplifies this. Despite historical adversities, their reverence for God has been a refuge and blessing, leaving a legacy of faith for future generations.
Application #2: Personal Reflection
How are you revering God today? What does this reverence look like in your daily life? Fostering a deep reverence for our Heavenly Father is essential for reflecting His greatness. Solomon’s life is a testament to using God-given wisdom humbly to demonstrate God’s greatness to the nations.
Conclusion
Proverbs 14-16 remind us to live with reverence, integrity, and trust in God. By committing our actions to the Lord and seeking His wisdom, we align our lives with His will, experiencing His favor and blessings. Let’s immerse ourselves in these proverbs and apply their wisdom, living godly lives that reflect our deep respect for God.
June 1
Proverbs 17-19
Keeping a Sensible Perspective
Proverbs 17: Wisdom, Justice, and Family
Key Verses:
- Proverbs 17:3: “The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, but the Lord tests hearts.”
- Proverbs 17:20: “One whose heart is corrupt finds no good; and one whose tongue is perverse falls into trouble.”
As we age, we learn that true character is often revealed during difficult times. Hardships test our hearts, revealing hidden flaws and false beliefs. It’s during these moments that we see our true selves and realize the importance of aligning our desires with God’s will. Testing is challenging, but it’s a divine opportunity to purify our hearts and strengthen our faith. Isaiah 26:8 reflects a pure heart’s desire: “Yes, LORD, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts.”
Proverbs 18: The Power of the Tongue
Key Verses:
- Proverbs 18:2: “Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions.”
- Proverbs 18:10: “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.”
Proverbs 18 underscores the impact of our words. Foolish words lead to conflict and ruin, while wise words are life-giving and protective. Our speech can be a source of wisdom and safety when we rely on the Lord.
Proverbs 19: Controlling Anger
Key Verse:
- Proverbs 19:11: “Sensible people control their temper; they earn respect by overlooking wrongs.”
This ties into Proverbs 16:32: “Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.”
Anger is a powerful emotion, often rooted in deeper issues like abuse, abandonment, and pain. Understanding this helps us manage our reactions. Sensible people use good judgment and remain level-headed, recognizing that others’ anger often has little to do with them personally. Developing this perspective feels like a superpower, allowing us to navigate conflicts with grace and wisdom.
Word of the Day: Sensible
Definition:
- Sensible: Having, using, or showing good sense or sound judgment. A sensible person is level-headed, calm, and makes wise decisions.
Application #1: Exercising Good Judgment
Proverbs teaches us the value of wisdom and being level-headed. With age, I’ve learned that it’s not all about me. Here are practical ways to exercise good judgment:
- Stay Calm: Others’ anger doesn’t have to affect you.
- Avoid Quarrels: Choose not to engage in conflicts.
- Set Boundaries: Recognize when it’s not your responsibility to solve others’ problems.
- Discern Rumors: Don’t spread rumors; defend those who are wronged.
Being sensible means leaning into God and trusted individuals while stepping back from those set on their own ways. Wisdom involves not wearing ourselves out trying to fix others, but speaking the truth and welcoming those willing to listen. Change must come from within, and only those who choose to change can truly transform.
Application #2: Living Sensibly
Living sensibly involves making wise decisions and maintaining calmness and good sense. By doing so, we reflect the wisdom found in Proverbs and demonstrate a life guided by godly principles.
June 2
Proverbs 20-21
Proverbs 22:1-16
Proverbs 20: Avoiding Pitfalls
Proverbs 20 offers practical advice on living a life of integrity and avoiding common pitfalls:
Key Verses:
- Proverbs 20:9: “Who can say, ‘I have cleansed my heart; I am pure and free from sin’?”
- Proverbs 20:21: “An inheritance obtained too early in life is not a blessing in the end.”
- Proverbs 20:27: “The Lord’s light penetrates the human spirit, exposing every hidden motive.”
- Proverbs 20:29: “The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.”
Proverbs 20 encourages avoiding fighting, dishonesty, and overindulgence of alcohol. It reminds us that true character is revealed in tough times and that God’s light exposes our true motives.
Proverbs 21: Righteousness and Humility
Proverbs 21 emphasizes the importance of righteousness, humility, and wisdom. It warns against arrogance and unethical behavior while encouraging us to seek the Lord’s guidance.
Key Verses:
- Proverbs 21:3: “The Lord is more pleased when we do what is right and just than when we offer him sacrifices.”
- Proverbs 21:9 & 21:19: “It’s better to live alone in the corner of an attic than with a quarrelsome wife in a lovely home” and “It’s better to live alone in the desert than with a quarrelsome, complaining wife.”
Avoiding sin requires careful attention and planning. Proverbs 21 underscores that obedience to God is more pleasing than sacrifice, a truth echoed in 1 Samuel 15:20-22.
Proverbs 22:1-16: The Value of a Good Name
Proverbs 22 begins with a powerful statement on the value of a good reputation:
Key Verses:
- Proverbs 22:1: “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.”
This section highlights the importance of wisdom, humility, and the fear of the Lord. It also offers practical advice on raising children and managing finances.
Word of the Day: Quarrelsome
Definition: Inclined to quarrel; argumentative; contentious.
Application #1: The Quarrelsome Spirit
Proverbs 21:3 teaches that doing what is right and just is more pleasing to God than sacrifices. This echoes the quarrel between Saul and Samuel. Often, we know the right course of action but choose to quarrel and pursue our own way. This leads to unnecessary strife and poor outcomes.
Application #2: The Source of Quarrels
James 4:1-4 explains that quarrels stem from our own desires and passions. When we prioritize our desires over God’s will, we create conflict. By focusing on God’s commands and seeking peace, we can avoid unnecessary arguments and foster better communication and understanding.
Reflection and Practical Steps
Reading Proverbs reminds us of the importance of wisdom and the dangers of a quarrelsome spirit. Here are practical steps to apply this wisdom:
- Avoid Arguments: Recognize when arguments arise from personal desires and strive to avoid unnecessary conflicts.
- Seek Peace: Focus on building peace, understanding, and good communication in all areas of life.
- Obey God: Prioritize obedience to God’s commands over personal desires, knowing this pleases Him more than sacrifices.
- Reflect on Motives: Regularly examine your motives and actions to ensure they align with God’s will.
