This chapter and the next quote wisdom from people other than Solomon. This chapter is written by Agur (only mentioned here in the Bible) and it reads like a psalm, while still containing wise sayings. “Four things on earth are small, but they are exceedingly wise: the ants are a people not strong, yet they…
Month: September 2021
Proverbs 29
This chapter again contains many themes, and many obscure proverbs, so we’ll only break down a few. “He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck, will suddenly be broken beyond healing. By mere words a servant is not disciplined, for though he understands, he will not respond.” (v1, 19) Have you ever seen someone…
Proverbs 28
This chapter contains multiple themes such as wealth, integrity, leading well, and moral character. “Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy. Blessed is the one who fears the Lord always, but whoever hardens his heart will fall into calamity. Whoever walks in integrity will be…
Proverbs 27
There are some odd sayings here that made me re-read them a few times. Let’s unpack a few. – “Wrath is cruel, anger is overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?” (v4) All emotions can be used for good or for evil. The evil side of jealousy is considered worse than that of anger or…
A Prayer for Boldness
Today I offer a prayer for boldness. Being an extreme introvert, I have needed to rely on God’s power in my life to help me be more willing to share my faith. I’m still an introvert as God created me to be, though God provides me the boldness to speak up / out in alignment…
Proverbs 26
This chapter has a few different themes of laziness, foolishness, quarreling, and evil. “Whoever meddles in a quarrel not his own is like one who takes a passing dog by the ears. For lack of wood the fire goes out, and where there is no whisperer, quarreling ceases. As charcoal to hot embers and wood…
Proverbs 25
This chapter has an overarching theme of how to love (or hate) our neighbors. Just a reminder, Jesus says that every person we encounter in this world is ‘our neighbor’, not just those who live nearby. “What your eyes have seen do not hastily bring into court… Argue your case with your neighbor himself, and…
Proverbs 24
This chapter continues the wise sayings of Solomon, several of which are long-form (multiple verses rather than single verses). “I passed by the field of a sluggard, by the vineyard of a man lacking sense, and behold, it was all overgrown with thorns; the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken…
A Prayer of Encouragement for Encouragement
Today I offer a prayer to encourage us to encourage others. The older I get the more I realize that we cannot walk through life without the support of those around us. We also should not allow others to walk through life without our support. I’m not sure about you, but a large portion of…
Proverbs 23
This chapter seems to focus on two types of behavior – both wise and unwise. “Apply your heart to instruction and your ear to words of knowledge. My son, if your heart is wise, my heart too will be glad. My inmost being will exult when your lips speak what is right. Be not among…