Proverbs

January 2nd – Proverbs 16:3

Proverbs 16:3

Living intentionally for God takes a daily commitment to make our goals and intentions line up with His. That means making sure every thought, word, and action, are in perfect rhythm with His grace and purpose. Intentional living involves cultivating a close, personal relationship with the Lord through prayer and seeking His will in every decision. It means extending love, grace, and compassion to others as a reflection of His character. And being intentional for the Lord means stewarding our time, talents, and resources in ways that honor Him. It’s a daily journey of growth, surrender, and obedience, where each step is taken with the deliberate intent of glorifying God and furthering His kingdom on earth. So as we stand on the threshold of a new year, let’s embark on a journey of intentional living. Let’s dedicate all our plans to the Lord, trusting in His wisdom, and laying a strong foundation for the year ahead. For when we do, God will establish and fulfill those plans in accordance with His greater purpose.

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December 23rd – Proverbs 18:24

Proverbs 18:24

In the heart of the Christmas story, Jesus comes as not only our Savior but as our dearest friend. His presence, like a timeless gift, brings comfort, joy, and the assurance that we are never alone. For He is the One who is closer than a brother. So in the twinkle of festive lights and the hush of silent nights, let us celebrate the profound truth. Jesus is the greatest gift, our eternal Friend, whose love is the true essence of the season. As we celebrate Christmas, the significance of Solomon’s words of wisdom resonate deeply. They emphasize the beauty of companionship during the season of love and togetherness. Friends, akin to kindred spirits, become the living embodiment of God’s grace in our lives. Their presence, like a cherished gift, adds richness and depth to the tapestry of our experiences. In the shared laughter, the moments of understanding, and the comfort of their company, we find the true spirit of Christmas. The warmth of genuine connection and the blessing of friends who stand by us through every season of life.

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December 18th – Proverbs 11:25

Proverbs 11:25

I love the picture of generosity being painted as refreshment for the soul. In the simple act of giving, we not only quench the thirst of those we give to, but find ourselves replenished in the process.  A replenishment found especially in the festive air of Christmastime. When the joy of giving becomes a gift itself. As we exchange presents and extend acts of kindness, we share in a generosity that echoes the very heart of Christmas. For the joy of giving is an act of love and selflessness, refreshing both the giver and the receiver. In every present wrapped with care, every warm gesture shared, we embody the truth of the holiday. The wonderful joy of lovingly giving to others. For the holiday itself is about love. The great love God showed us by giving His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to the world. And out of hearts overflowing with gratitude, we should extend that same love to others. Because when we choose to give with open, and loving hearts, we both give and receive the joy that makes this season truly magical.

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November 22nd – Proverbs 23:18

Proverbs 23:18

When we’re in the midst of a storm it can be hard to see past the black clouds to the clear skies ahead. But that’s what Solomon encourages us to do. To look beyond our present circumstances, believe in the promises of God, and know that the trial we’re facing isn’t the final chapter. For we serve an omniscient God. One who sees the storm from beginning to end, and walks beside us through every one. This gives us the hope and endurance we need to keep moving forward. To focus on the wonderful future shaped by God’s faithfulness. By trusting in His plans, we build a foundation for enduring challenges with resilience. For our hope is anchored in something greater than momentary trials. And we can approach challenges with a steadfast belief that God’s purposes will prevail. Filling us with a peace beyond human comprehension. (Phil. 4:7) And one that inspires an enduring hope that transcends the ebb and flow of life, and leads to a triumphant future.

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November 15th – Proverbs 3:5-6

Proverbs 3:5-6

In Proverbs 3:5-6 Solomon tells us that to find hope and endurance we have to be willing to surrender our trust in ourselves and have complete trust in the Lord. To give up the impulse to depend on our own understanding, and instead give over our path to God’s perfect plan and wisdom. It means actively seeking His guidance in all aspects of life, knowing His thoughts and ways are higher. His strength made perfect in our weakness. It’s a continuous commitment to submission, being ok with not understanding all of God’s workings. Yet faithfully following the path He ordains anyway. In practice, it’s about finding strength and purpose in surrender. Allowing hope to permeate every decision and endurance to be fueled by the belief that, through trusting in the Lord, our paths are guided toward a purposeful and straight course. One that allows us to have victory over every trial, and leads to an eternity spent in the presence of God, Almighty.

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October 27th – Exodus 34:6

Exodus 34:6

Solomon was a wise man. And in Proverbs 14:29 he says, “Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.” Boy does that ring true. Patience is a virtue I struggle with daily. And inevitably impatience leads to anger, followed by jumping to conclusions, ending with regret. That’s why I’m so very thankful God’s mercy extends far beyond my shortcomings. In spite of myself, His grace flows endlessly. When I am faithless, His love and faithfulness never waver. Because God’s abundant goodness is not limited by our limitations. It’s an ever continuing supply of hope and assurance. A reminder of His unfailing presence in our lives. And an invitation to embrace the richness of His blessings with gratitude and humility. The world is filled so much anger and division. Jesus warned that in the last days people would become lovers of themselves and money. They’ll be braggers, arrogant, and abusive. (2 Tim. 3:2) May it not be with God’s people. May we abound in love.

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October 24th – Proverbs 3:10

Proverbs 3:10

God loves to bless us abundantly. And He does so with the intention that we in turn, will use what He gives to help others. For just as He told Abram, we are blessed to be a blessing. (Gen. 12:1-3) That’s why it’s important to have a heart that embraces stewardship and generosity. Being mindful to use God’s blessings not only for our own needs, but also for the greater good. As Christians we no longer live under the law but under grace. That means we are no longer legally required to tithe. But it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t. Because everything we have is from God and belongs to Him. And out of gratitude for all He is, does, and blesses us with, we should eagerly want to give back to Him. Whether it’s money, time, service, or prayer, we all have something to give. Something we can use to be instruments of God and bless another. We can’t out-give God. And He promises that the more we use our blessings to help others, the greater our blessings will be! So give and give so more. And watch the blessings flow!

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July 31st – Proverbs 25:4

Proverbs 25:4

“Take away the dross from the silver, and the smith has material for a vessel,”

During the process of refining and purifying precious metals, the waste materials that are separated through smelting are called dross. Intense heat causes the dross to separate from the ore and rise to the top. There it forms a froth and can be eliminated, leaving a pure metal base. That’s how it should be with our inner circle of friends. Friendship is a treasure given by God, and we should surround ourselves with only the cream of the crop. Those who have stood the test of time and proven themselves to be trustworthy, honest and loyal. Both to us and to God. Because such relationships are vital in a world of fake followers and friends. Like beacons of light, they guide us along the path of faith and righteousness. And in the company of such friends, we find solace, encouragement, and accountability rooted in the teachings of Christ. These precious, treasured, friendships inspire us to be better versions of ourselves. And they challenge us to grow in love, compassion, and forgiveness.

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July 30th – Proverbs 20:29

Proverbs 20:29

“The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.”

In todays society youth is worshipped, and people go to great lengths to attain it. But there’s something wonderful to be said about growing old gracefully. My grandmother died at 92. Her life revolved around her love for God and her desire to serve Him. And she did so faithfully. So when she developed dementia and couldn’t serve the way she used to, it broke her heart. It was in those times that I had to remind her that God still had a mighty purpose for her. And although she might not be physically able to serve the Lord, she could still serve. For nothing can stop the Spirit of God from working in and through us. And even in our old age, we can be powerful instruments of the Lord. Even at 92 my grandmother could serve not only by sharing her faith, but also her wisdom and experiences. Because after all, as she would jokingly agree, she earned every one of those grey hairs! No matter how old or young, each day God gives us is a gift. And until we draw our last breath, He wants us to use each one for the glory of His kingdom.

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July 29th – Proverbs 28:1

Proverbs 28:1

“The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.”

“The lady doth protest too much, methinks,” is a famous line from the Shakespeare play, Hamlet. And now it’s used when we think someone is excessive in defending themselves. For no one looks more guilty than when they are trying to convince us otherwise. Because those who are truly blameless don’t need to resort to such passionate protests. And as Christians, we needn’t defend ourselves at all. For we have the greatest Defender we will ever need in God. In times of adversity, when the world may question our intentions and actions, we can find peace knowing when we lives of obedience to His will, the Lord will wrap us in His love and protection. And when we place our trust in His divine plan, we can let go of our fears and insecurities. Instead allowing God to take the lead in our defense. So Instead of protesting and battling to prove our worth, we can surrender. Surrender to the guidance and mercy of the Lord. Recognizing that true strength lies in embracing humility and placing our faith in the divine Orchestrator of our lives.

July 29th – Proverbs 28:1 Read More »