Daily Reading Week 23
Sunday
Ecclesiastes 12
Discover
In the sermon this week we were encouraged to start strong. One of the best ways to start strong is by remembering who God is and what He has done. Take a few minutes and reflect on all that God has done for you.
In addition, the message this week challenged us to finish strong. Finishing strong includes us fearing and obeying God. Is there something in your life that God is telling you to do? Are you obeying Him or disobeying Him?
In what ways does this chapter challenge or affirm your current understanding of life, aging, wisdom, and the fear of God?
Respond
Ecclesiastes 12 serves as a powerful reminder of the transience of life and the value of wisdom. It encourages us to honor and remember God in our youth, to cherish and utilize the vigor of youth wisely, for old age brings with it physical decline and challenges. Above all, it underlines the truth that all deeds, secret or open, are subject to divine judgment. This understanding can guide us towards living a life rooted in wisdom, righteousness, and the fear of God.
Ecclesiastes 12, attributed to Solomon, is a profoundly insightful chapter that serves as a poetic reflection on the inevitability of aging and mortality. This chapter implores readers to seek and honor God in their youth, before the trials of old age set in. It poetically uses metaphors to depict the physical and mental decay associated with old age and ultimately death, underscoring the fleeting nature of life.
Monday
Proverbs 14
Discover
How does Proverbs 14 differentiate between wisdom and folly?
Reflect on a time your words had a significant impact, either positive or negative. How does this relate to the power of speech as described in Proverbs 14?
Does your heart desire and cherish wisdom, or are you wise in your own eyes? As Proverbs 14:6 indicates, have you found knowledge of God easy to attain?
Respond
Proverbs 14 is an enlightening guidebook for life's journey. Its verses invoke reflection on our actions, words, and choices, steering us towards wisdom and righteousness. By understanding and living these principles, we can construct a fulfilling life rooted in integrity and wisdom, navigating the complex paths of life with discernment and righteousness.
Proverbs 14, a rich chapter in the book of Proverbs, presents a set of contrasts between wisdom and folly, righteousness and wickedness, and understanding and ignorance. Each proverb illustrates a distinct principle that invites its reader to ponder the consequences of their choices and to seek the path of wisdom and righteousness.
Tuesday
Proverbs 15
Discover
This chapter advises us to use our words carefully and cautiously. How can we apply this principle of speaking with kindness and patience in our daily interactions?
What assurance or encouragement does this chapter offer regarding God’s involvement in our lives/
In what ways can we apply the work ethic presented in this chapter to our lives both personally and professionally?
Respond
This continues a long string of "proverbs:" short, general-case expressions of common sense wisdom. Solomon begins with several statements commending self-control. Cautious, gentle answers not only prevent additional strife, they reduce whatever tension already exists. A wise person carefully chooses their response, rather than babbling out whatever comes to mind. Closely connected to this is the need to humbly accept correction.
Next are several contrasts. These compare the righteous with the wicked, using the parallel ideas of those who are wise and those who are foolish. These proverbs echo themes such as the life-giving nature of godly wisdom, the disastrous consequences of sin, the importance of humility, and the value of seeking advice.
The majority of the chapter is made up of individual segments of wisdom, with a few repeating themes. Solomon notes the importance of perspective, which is more influential than wealth when it comes to happiness. Careful planning, seeking advice, hard work, and righteousness are all commended. Laziness, impatience, arrogance, and hypocrisy are condemned. The chapter ends with three proverbs echoing the recurring theme that sensible persons listen to godly wisdom—and this only comes through a reverent honor of God.
Wednesday
Proverbs 16
Discover
This chapter advises us to approach planning and decision making that seek the Lord’s guidance. How can we balance our own plans with being open to God’s direction, as discussed in this chapter?
What insights does this chapter offer regarding the dangers of pride?
What steps can we take to cultivate honey and integrity in our dealings with others, in accordance with the principles outlined in this chapter?
Respond
This segment begins with a discussion of man's plans. Human nature can lead us to arrogance and ignorance. Failure to seek God's will or examine our own motives can lead to disaster. Despite what a person might tell themselves, the Lord sees the heart, weighs the spirit, and determines what will happen. The Lord is sovereign; He has a purpose for everything He created.
Solomon then offers several perspectives on kings and rulers. He points out the fact that those in authority have great power, so it's common sense to avoid their wrath whenever possible. Some of these statements are expressions of ideals: the way a godly king ought to act.
Next are a series of statements relating to the value of wisdom, controlled speech, and self-reflection. Arrogance leads to disaster since it prevents a person from following God's will or recognizing their own errors. Having truth is valuable in and of itself; using careful words to speak truth makes others more likely to accept it. On the other hand, using words hatefully or for spite can cause incredible damage.
The last section of this chapter contrasts evil people with those who are righteous. Solomon offers additional warnings about self-control and the importance of reining in one's temper. Through all things, even those we think of as "random," God is ultimately in control.
Thursday
Proverbs 17
Discover
How can we apply the principles of peacemaking and understanding in our interactions with others, as suggested in Proverbs 17?
What does this chapter teach us about fostering healthy family relationships and nurturing children in wisdom?
Character and integrity are so important. How does this chapter contrast the righteous with the wicked in terms of character?
Respond
The first section of this chapter deals with virtues such as family harmony and honesty. As do other portions of this book, these statements warn that those who plan evil will suffer consequences. God cannot be deceived, and He knows precisely what's on each person's heart.
The next group of proverbs covers a wide range of ideas. Major themes include sins that cause anger or division between people, friendship, and careful use of one's resources. These verses often exhibit the common pattern of contrast or doubly-stated ideas.
The chapter ends with wisdom centered on godly spirituality and a controlled tongue. In contrast, negativity and bribery are sins to be denounced.
Friday
Proverbs 18
Discover
Our words have the power to create worlds. How does this chapter illustrate the impact of words on our lives and the lives of others?
We have all seen the negative impact that pride has in our contemporary culture. What warnings does Solomon give in this chapter regarding the dangers of pride?
Proverbs 18 addresses God’s care for His people. What kind of comfort or assurance does this truth give you?
Respond
The first nine statements of this passage mostly revolve around the need for discernment in judgment and speech. A person who refuses to seek additional wisdom from others is fighting against truth. A characteristic of foolishness is the inability to control one's speech. This can lead to a damaged reputation, or even physical violence from someone who's been offended. Solomon also stresses the importance of fairness in matters of justice, the dangers of laziness, and the insidious nature of gossip.
Humility and a sincere search for truth are common themes in the next several proverbs. God's "name," meaning His character, nature, and promises, is compared to a place of safety. Not only should a person be humble in their personal life, but they should apply the same attitude towards matters of judgment. A wise person tries to find out more information, rather than arrogantly jumping to conclusions.
The end of this chapter gives observations about perception and relationships. Wealth can make others more receptive, and unfortunately often lets a person "get away" with being rude or entitled. Solomon provides warnings about undue conflict. He notes the enhanced bitterness which comes when close friends and family have a "falling out." Several proverbs mention objectivity and the need to carefully guard one's speech. An especially famous phrase at the end of this chapter notes that true friends can be more loyal than even one's own family.
Saturday
Proverbs 19
Discover
What are the benefits of living a life of honesty and righteousness, as discussed in this chapter?
How does this chapter caution against being quick to speak and slow to listen?
This chapter encourages us to be compassionate and generous to those in need. What are some practical ways you can live out this truth?
Respond
This chapter makes multiple references to personal integrity and wealth. It's far better to be moral—and to have a reputation for honesty—than to have temporary wealth and be seen as a liar. And yet, the world all too often favors the wealthy, through shallow "friendships," while ignoring those who have nothing material to offer. Solomon also notes one of the hallmarks of foolishness: reacting according to one's desires instead of to truth.
The next group of statements cover a wide range of ideas. These include typical comments about the value of wisdom, the consequences of ignoring it, the importance of common sense and practicality, and the fallible nature of human planning. Self-control should be sought and is important to instill in one's children. Even as an adult, it's crucial to take good advice when it's given, rather than refusing to learn even from one's mistakes.
Last in this chapter are comments which focus on respect for God's will and the disastrous results of ignoring it. Following the Lord's leading is not a magical formula which guarantees success. And yet, it is by far the most sensible way to pursue life. Even the inexperienced person should be able to see what happens when people defy God; they should learn the appropriate lesson from those observations. A person who refuses to learn—even a wise person who decides to stop learning—is inviting difficulty to their own life.