Day 27 - "The wise fear the Lord and shun evil"
Today's Reading is Proverbs 14:15-35
The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps. The wise fear the Lord and shun evil, but a fool is hotheaded and yet feels secure. A quick-tempered person does foolish things, and the one who devises evil schemes is hated. The simple inherit folly, but the prudent are crowned with knowledge. Evildoers will bow down in the presence of the good, and the wicked at the gates of the righteous. The poor are shunned even by their neighbors, but the rich have many friends. It is a sin to despise one's neighbor, but blessed is the one who is kind to the needy. Do not those who plot evil go astray? But those who plan what is good find love and faithfulness. All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty. The wealth of the wise is their crown, but the folly of fools yields folly. A truthful witness saves lives, but a false witness is deceitful. Whoever fears the Lord has a secure fortress, and for their children it will be a refuge. The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, turning a person from the snares of death. A large population is a king's glory, but without subjects a prince is ruined. Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly. A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones. Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God. When calamity comes, the wicked are brought down, but even in death the righteous seek refuge in God. Wisdom reposes in the heart of the discerning and even among fools she lets herself be known. Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin condemns any people. A king delights in a wise servant, but a shameful servant arouses his fury.
Questions to Consider about the Reading
- What does it mean to "give thought to your steps" rather than believing everything you hear?
- How do you see the contrast between quick-tempered reactions and patient understanding playing out in your daily interactions?
- Which of these proverbs about how we treat others - especially the poor and needy - challenges you most directly?
- What does "fearing the Lord" look like practically in your life, and how does it provide security?
What's One Thing God Wants You to Underline?
Ending Prayer
God, help me to slow down and think before I act or speak. Give me patience when I feel my temper rising, and help me see the people around me - especially those who are struggling - the way you see them. Thank you that when I trust you, you become my refuge and strength. Amen.