Day 190

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Righteous Leadership Exalts a Nation

Scripture

July 8—Proverbs 25-29: Collection of Wise Sayings

Observation

Righteousness not only exalts a nation (14:34), it also stabilizes the nation's citizens! In his closing contribution to the book of Proverbs, Solomon records the riches of righteousness and the fatal danger of foolishness. Kings and peasants, false witnesses and friends, the righteous and the corrupt, the foolish and the wise, the slothful and the diligent, the deceitful and the dependable—Solomon has something to say to each. God's wisdom gives guidance in choosing the right response to life's situations, and a proper perspective on material possessions.

Application

At first glance you may be tempted to view these 138 proverbs as random, miscellaneous thoughts. But actually there is evidence of careful arrangement and grouping of proverbs that deal with similar topics. As you read, refer to these categories and think of corresponding situations in your life that can profit from Solomon's counsel:

The Tongue
(25:11-15)
Gossip
(26:20-22)
Overindulgence
(25:16-17
Hypocrisy
(26:23-28)
Unfaithfulness
(25:18-19)
Stewardship
(27:23-27)
Compassion
(25:20-22)
Oppression
(28:15-17)
Foolish Actions
(26:1-12)
Poverty
(29:13-14)
Laziness
(26:13-16)
Correction
(29:15-21)

Now circle the most troublesome area in your walk with God, and underline the area in which you are currently experiencing the greatest consistency. Thank Him for the latter; commit yourself this week to work on the former!

Prayer

O Lord, what we would like to take away from today's reading of Proverbs is that if we are in Christ, and Christ is in us then the world should see nothing else but Jesus Christ. Help us to handle with care these wise sayings and respond righteously and with the proper perspectives in our mind and heart in such a manner that unbelievers become believers. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen!

Christ Within!


© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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