Day 15 - "From everlasting I was appointed"
Today's Reading is Proverbs 8:22-36 (NIV)
The LORD brought me forth as the first of his works, before his deeds of old; I was formed long ages ago, at the very beginning, when the world came to be. When there were no watery depths, I was given birth, when there were no springs overflowing with water; before the mountains were settled in place, before the hills, I was given birth, before he made the world or its fields or any of the dust of the earth. I was there when he set the heavens in place, when he marked out the horizon on the face of the deep, when he established the clouds above and fixed securely the fountains of the deep, when he gave the sea its boundary so the waters would not overstep his command, and when he marked out the foundations of the earth. Then I was constantly at his side. I was filled with delight day after day, rejoicing always in his presence, rejoicing in his whole world and delighting in mankind. Now then, my children, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways. Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not disregard it. Blessed are those who listen to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For those who find me find life and receive favor from the LORD. But those who fail to find me harm themselves; all who hate me love death.
Questions to Consider about the Reading
- How does wisdom's presence "before the mountains were settled in place" speak to your understanding of eternal truth?
- What does it mean that wisdom was "filled with delight day after day" in God's presence, and how might this transform your pursuit of wisdom?
- How do verses 35-36 present the life-or-death stakes of seeking wisdom in your daily decisions?
- What connections do you see between this personification of wisdom and Jesus Christ as the eternal Word?
What's One Thing God Wants You to Underline?
Ending Prayer
Lord, thank you for showing us that wisdom isn't just good advice, but part of your eternal designs. Help us to seek wisdom daily, knowing that finding it means finding life itself. Give us hearts that long for wisdom, eager to learn your ways. Amen.