Day 183

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Proverbs Introduction

King Solomon uttered some three thousand proverbs (1 Kings 4:32), of which about nine hundred comprise the famous volume that bears that name. Proverbs is a collection of short, pithy statements of inspired truth and wisdom. Using comparison, contrast, and picturesque language, the author sets forth God's principles for godly living. While it takes only a few seconds for you to read a proverb, you can easily spend a lifetime working out the implications of that proverb in your daily walk with God!

Scripture

July 1—Proverbs 1-4: Wisdom

Observation

What better person to speak of wisdom from God's point of view than Solomon son of David, King of Israel, and wisest man in the Old Testament! From the opening verses, Solomon sets forth his purpose and theme in writing: "He wrote them [the Proverbs] to teach his people how to live—how to act in every circumstance, for he wanted them to be understanding, just and fair in everything they did" (1:2-3). But how do you develop that kind of skill in living life to God's glory? Solomon is quick to answer. "The first step is to trust and reverence the Lord" (1:7). By learning to reverence God, you are in line for benefits that only God's wisdom can bring: moral purity, true prosperity and guidance in the difficult decisions of everyday life.

Application

A piano virtuoso, hearing his talents described as "sheer genius," was quick to respond, "Genius? For thirty-eight years I've practiced six hours a day and now they call me a genius!" Few individual play the piano with such style and mastery because few are willing to pay the price. It is not much a matter of what they are gifted to do as it is what they have given themselves to do with a whole heart.

All too few of God's children experience the wisdom God has for them in making decisions and setting priorities because all too few are growing in their fear of the Lord. As you begin your study of Proverbs, ask yourself this question: "If wisdom from the Lord begins with reverence for the Lord, where do I need to begin today?" Solomon learned the key to wisdom. Have you discovered it yet?

Prayer

Dear Lord, we seek and are searching for you in our daily walk through your Word and in return you have granted us wisdom, discernment and the knowledge of you. As we study your Word we grow to reverence and trust you in every area of our life. We pray that this daily walk grow and spread amongst all that we come in contact with. Thank you, Lord.  In Jesus name. Amen!

Reverence and Trust the Lord!


© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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