Solomon

January 28th – Ecclesiastes 7:8

Ecclesiastes 7:8

Sometimes we only see the true worth of a journey at its conclusion. Because it’s only then we can look back and see how the hand of God was at work. And while beginnings hold a wonderful promise, it’s often the lessons we learn and the growth we experience along the way that make the end more valuable than the start. That why Solomon reminds us of the wisdom in embracing the process of change, no matter how long it takes. For just as the repeated lapping of the water slowly shapes a precious stone, or the gradual growth from a small sapling to a mighty oak, change requires patience and perseverance. But we can rest assured that the outcome will be worth it. Because when we rely on God and trust in His timing, the patience we exhibit will bring a harvest of blessings beyond our imagination. So in the journey of change, let us anchor our faith in God’s promises. And know that the destination He leads us to will always be better than we anything we could have ever dreamed.

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December 26th – Psalm 90:12

Psalm 90:12

As the year draws to a close, Solomon calls us to reflect on the past year. To take some time to look back at the highs, lows, good times and bad. And to ponder the lessons we learned, the challenges we overcame, and the growth we experienced. In this reflective pause, we see the fleeting nature of time and the shortness of our journey here on earth. And most of all we see the glory of God. Because through the ebb and flow of life, His unwavering faithfulness is always there as a comforting constant. So as we navigate the moments of our past year, may our reflections be not just a review of experiences, but a recognition of God’s steadfast presence, His grace in times of struggle, and His blessings in moments of joy. Psalm 90:12 is a guiding prayer, inviting us to seek wisdom in reflection and gratitude in acknowledging the faithfulness that has carried us through the the past year. So without forgetting what lies behind, may we all look forward to what’s coming ahead with the new year.

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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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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.

November 22nd – Proverbs 23:18 Read More »

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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November 13th – Hebrews 11:1

Hebrews 11:1

Solomon, the wisest of all kings, tells us a cord of three strands is not quickly broken. (Eccles. 4:12) That’s how it is with faith, hope, and endurance. Together they form an unbreakable chain that allow us to have unwavering trust in God and His promises. Even without physical proof or evidence. Having a confident faith in the Lord strengthens us. Providing a firm foundation which guides our thoughts, choices, and actions. Making sure all align with God’s will. And that faith leads to hope, the driving force behind endurance. This empowers us to keep going through the challenges and uncertainties of life. All with the confidence that what we believe in, though unseen, is certain and trustworthy. And God promises to reward such faith. Including the treasures of eternal life, peace that transcends understanding, and a profound sense of purpose and meaning. Although unseen, we can be assured of God’s love, protection, and a future beyond this life. One filled with joy, restoration, and an eternity spent as His side.

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September 6th – Ecclesiastes 3:1

Ecclesiastes 3:1

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens;”

I love a quote by Helen Keller which says, “To keep our faces toward change, and behave like free spirits in the presence of fate, is strength undefeatable.” No one likes change. Yet no matter how hard we try, nothing stays the same forever. That’s why Solomon teaches us about the seasons of life and the importance of embracing change. Today, in our fast-paced and ever-evolving world, this verse serves as a timeless reminder. It encourages us to recognize that change is a part of our existence. Just as the world experiences different seasons, our lives also go through seasons both joyful and challenging. Applying this wisdom means understanding that there is a purpose and a time for everything. It calls us to accept the inevitability of change, to cherish moments of happiness, and to endure through times of difficulty, knowing that they too shall pass. It encourages us to trust in God’s sovereignty and timing. To find contentment in every season and seeking His guidance in navigating life’s ever-shifting circumstances. And in doing so, we can find peace and purpose in the midst of life’s changes.

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July 27th – Proverbs 8:32

Proverbs 8:32

Now then, my children, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways.

One of the most important things Solomon wanted to leave his children was a legacy of wisdom and discernment. Wisdom uses our life experiences and past consequences when making decisions. While discernment uses facts as we know them to judge whether something or someone is true and right. Both go hand in hand, and both are important in leading successful, victorious, Christian lives. Spiritual gifts given by God, when we follow the path of wisdom and discernment, we are more likely to avoid mistakes and make better choices. We save ourselves from a world of pain, heartache, and regret. Wisdom and discernment allow us to leads lives of integrity, love, and compassion. And they give us a testimony to share with others, so they too can avoid the pitfalls of wrong decisions. By following Solomon’s advice and walking in wisdom’s ways, we open ourselves to many blessings. Blessings including sound decision making, inner peace, and spiritual growth.

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July 25th – Proverbs 11:22

Proverbs 11:22

As a ring of gold in a swine’s snout, so is a beautiful women who lacks discretion.

If there ever was a man who knew about women, it was Solomon. 1 Kings 11:3 tells us, “He had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines”. Talk about a harem! And from his experiences he knew he had no use for a women lacking discretion. As unflattering as this proverb is, it reiterates the message found throughout the Bible. God wants our beauty to radiate from within. Physical beauty is overrated. And those who count on their looks to get through life will be sorely disappointed when those same looks are lost to old age. Better instead to develop the characteristics that time can not erase. Sharon Hodde Miller described it this way it, “A woman’s beauty might open some doors for her, but it is her character that will be her ultimate success. Beauty may attract a man, but faithfulness and respect is what will enable her dating relationships, and ultimately marriage, to last.”  Because no matter how you patch it, paint it, or plump it, a pretty face can never hide an ugly soul.

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July 21st – Proverbs 26:17

Proverbs 26:17

Like one who grabs a stray dog by the ears is someone who rushes into a quarrel not their own.”

No one in their right mind would approach an unknown stray dog and grab it by its ears. Because if you did, you’d likely get bit. Similarly, Solomon says when we butt into another’s quarrel, we’re just asking for trouble. In our age of social media, people are quick to jump on the bandwagon of mob thinking. People, even Christians, join heated debates and pile-on criticisms without fully understanding the context. That’s why we need to mind our own business and not get involved with things that don’t concern us. As followers of Jesus, our focus should be on living out His teachings, sharing the Good News, and spreading love. Engaging in unnecessary conflicts can distract us from our true purpose and lead us away from the path of righteousness. By exercising restraint and discernment, we can avoid being drawn into situations that only serve to sow seeds of discord. Minding our own business allows us to prioritize the pursuit of spiritual growth and reflecting the light of Christ in everything we do.

July 21st – Proverbs 26:17 Read More »