Read – Proverbs 30:10-33

What does it say?
Agur, a student of wisdom, observed how God’s wisdom empowers the weak.

What does it mean?
Agur recognized the wisdom of the Creator in four small, weak creatures. Tiny ants use planning and working together; defenseless rock badgers diligently climb up steep, rugged rocks for protection; locusts are well organized despite the fact that they have no apparent leader; and spiders are resourceful enough to exist practically anywhere. Not one of these creatures is strong, but each survives by using the innate wisdom given to it by God. The wisdom of the Creator enables these minute species to thrive in a world where most other creatures are larger and stronger. Agur realized that wisdom is superior to strength.

How should I respond?
What can we learn from the lives of these insignificant creatures? Plenty! The wisdom, plainly seen in these species, points us to the God of all creation (Psalm 8:3-9). We can greatly benefit by planning ahead and working together, diligently striving onward, organizing endeavors, and resourcefully using what God has provided. How many times have you blown it by relying solely on your own strength? The next time you find yourself struggling, ask the Creator to guide you. Since God cares for the least of His creation, just consider how much more He cares for those made in His image.

Read – Proverbs 30:10-33

What does it say?
Divine revelation is certain, and no one has the authority to add to God’s Word.

What does it mean?
Agur, a sage during the time of Solomon, wisely instructed his students that true wisdom is not learned through human efforts. He humbly admitted his limited understanding and proceeded to direct them to the source of all wisdom, the Holy One. The questions Agur presented could only be answered by divine revelation through Scripture. The Word of God is infallible. Anyone who tries to add to His Word will be proven a liar. God’s Word is settled forever (Psalm 119:89). Ultimately, true wisdom only comes from knowing God through His Holy Word.

How should I respond?
Have you truly realized how awesome it is to have knowledge of Almighty God? You may possess knowledge from many sources, but unless you know God through His Word, you won’t have true wisdom. How tragic it would be to spend a lifetime learning what the world has to offer while neglecting the knowledge of God. What would be gained if you knew everything society deems as important but failed to know the God who created it all? Today, allow the Lord to speak to you through Scripture. What He has revealed is amazing!

Read – Proverbs 29:1-27

What does it say?
A king who rules with righteousness and justice encourages stability and security, causing his people to rejoice.

What does it mean?
Two types of kings or leaders are described in these Proverbs. A righteous king who rules justly brings a nation stability and joy. People feel secure when an honest, trustworthy person is in control. On the other hand, a wicked, greedy king who listens to dishonest advisors encourages sinful behavior among his people. They often live in fear and distress from their king and those who follow his example. That nation has little chance of peace and will eventually self-destruct due to poor leadership. But no matter who is in power, justice ultimately comes from God.

How should I respond?
In our world, it is quite common to have both righteous and wicked leaders in positions of authority. Although we elect political and civic leaders, we do not get to choose how they do their jobs. Regardless of what they do while in office, we can look to God as our righteous ruler. He will always have the final say on right and wrong. His rule over the world is just and will prevail in the end. As followers of Christ we are called to respect and obey our leaders, but our peace and security should rest solely in our heavenly King who is in control of all things.

Read – Proverbs 28:1-14

What does it say?
The righteous are discerning, keeping and fully understanding the law. They confess their sins in the fear of the Lord, who shows them mercy.

What does it mean?
The righteous and the wicked take opposite approaches to the laws of the land. Their perspective is determined by how they view God. Because the righteous person reveres the Lord, he can discern how his actions affect others, himself, and his relationship with a holy God. His keeping of the law results in a clear conscience. He admits when he has done wrong and leaves it behind. God responds to the repentant attitude of the righteous with mercy and forgiveness.

How should I respond?
What is your first reaction when you see a state trooper? Do you immediately take your foot off the gas and look at your speedometer? Your reaction is a direct result of either a clear or guilty conscience. What about other laws in our country? When you feel a need to hide what you’re doing, that is evidence that God is pricking your conscience. You’ll gain discernment as you discover more about the character of God by studying the Bible. A proper view of God leads to admitting when you’ve sinned. What do you need to admit to the Lord and walk away from today?

Read – Proverbs 27:18-27

What does it say?
Tending a fig tree provides fruit to eat. Looking after flocks provides clothing and nourishment for the household.

What does it mean?
Solomon addressed the reader’s work ethic with examples from an agricultural society. Farmers have to cultivate their crops in order to have a healthy harvest. Likewise, a shepherd who doesn’t carefully look after his flock won’t enjoy the clothing, food, or monetary benefits the herd can offer. A boss notices the worker who faithfully carries out his duties. The benefits of diligent, hard work affect the quality of a person’s life and the relationships he or she has.

How should I respond?
We live in an entitlement society; many people expect to do less and receive more. That attitude is contradictory to Scripture. God cares about how well we perform our daily chores at home and duties at work. Everything we do as believers should be a reflection of Jesus. Is your work ethic a positive or negative testimony for Christ? The benefits of being diligent in your job, schoolwork, or household chores will provide for your daily needs and nurture the relationships in those places. What task is ahead of you this week? Determine to carry it out with diligence. When your aim is to please the Lord with your work, those over you are seldom disappointed.

Read – Proverbs 26:13-28

What does it say?
Solomon warned against laziness, interference in other people’s quarrels, and deceitfulness.

What does it mean?
Solomon discussed several destructive behaviors: laziness, meddling, deception, and gossip. The “sluggard” is uninvolved, even in his own life, to the point of absurdity. On the other hand, the meddler and gossip are overly involved in the affairs of others. Those who are lazy or who meddle tend to suffer personally from their choices. However, those who set out to gossip, deceive, and start quarrels primarily hurt other people. Their harmful behavior, even if disguised, will eventually come back on them.

How should I respond?
There’s no excuse for a follower of Christ to be lazy. Jesus left us with a clear mission: to make disciples of all nations, baptizing and teaching them (Matt. 28:18-20.) That can only be accomplished through diligent effort. However, we must discern between doing the work of the Lord and getting involved in situations that are none of our business. How might you have masked your own agenda under the guise of Christian service? Who has been hurt in the process? Determine to stay focused on using your time wisely as directed by God. Heed Solomon’s warning – destructive behaviors cannot be taken back.

Read – Proverbs 25:11-28

What does it say?
A person with no self-control is like a city with broken walls.

What does it mean?
Solomon used figurative language to encourage his reader toward a life of discipline and self-control, which is valuable to the individual and to others. Although this passage covers a broad range of topics, each saying guides the reader to wisely guard some aspect of his speech, emotions, or behavior. A person’s words and reactions can be either controlled and beneficial or undisciplined and detrimental to relationships. A life of self-control offers protection just as a wall safeguards the inhabitants of a well-fortified city.

How should I respond?
Discipline regarding our health and fitness is currently in vogue. You may choose to forgo a piece of pie, but how much self-control do you exercise over your mind and emotions? For a follower of Christ, self-control is actually submitting to the control of the Holy Spirit. When you allow God to discipline your speech, your words will be encouraging, and your friendship will be valued. The same is true for your actions and emotions; keeping both in check displays godly character. In which example from today’s passage do you need more self-control? Be aware of it as you move throughout the day. Ask God to give you a disciplined body, mind, and spirit.

Read – Proverbs 25:1-10

What does it say?
A king should strive for a righteous reign, and his people should be careful in the way they relate to one another.

What does it mean?
Both the king and the people had a part in helping the kingdom to run smoothly. Solomon, as well as a future king, had the responsibility to know what was happening in his kingdom and to use that information with discernment. Removing wicked influences helped each king to rule righteously. Likewise, if the people avoided self-promotion, hasty court proceedings, and betrayals of trust, their relationships with one another would improve. A healthy community required less intervention from the king, allowing him to focus on important kingdom matters.

How should I respond?
If you are in a position of leadership, it makes sense to be the best leader possible. Following scriptural guidelines helps to ensure a successful “reign” in all you are doing. Ask God to give you discernment as you make decisions and communicate with those you lead. When you find yourself under someone else’s leadership, be willing to follow. How willingly do you take directions and maintain trust with others involved? Strife will only get in the way of fulfilling your purpose. How healthy is your leadership or “follow-ship” today? Determine to lead, follow, AND get out of the way.

Read – Proverbs 24:11-22

What does it say?
Do not steal from the righteous, gloat over an enemy’s fall, envy evil men, worry about the wicked, or join with rebels. Rescue those being led away, fear the Lord and the king.

What does it mean?
Today’s passage addresses how to relate wisely in human relationships as well as to the Lord. When proper time and attention are given to godly pursuits, there’s little time left to fret about other people or join them in doing wrong. Instead, the wise person allows God and established authorities to deal with the actions of evil and wicked people. Even laughing over the failure of an enemy might cause God to take pity on him. The person who fears the Lord doesn’t try to claim ignorance regarding the hardships of others, but he steps in and does what he can.

How should I respond?
Each of us has only 1440 minutes in a day – no matter who we are. How you spend your time is largely influenced by whom you choose to think about the most throughout the day. Recognizing evil in the world isn’t wrong, but worrying about what others are doing or gloating when they fail is a waste of time. Ask God to show you how to be proactive in your community. Look for ways to help victims of injustice or oppression through local organizations or missions efforts within your church. How will you choose to spend the minutes left in your day?

Read – Proverbs 23:1-11

What does it say?
The next five Sayings of the Wise warn against gluttony, overwork, hypocrites, fools, and stealing from the fatherless.

What does it mean?
The five sayings considered in this passage tell the reader how to deal wisely with his own desires as well as how to relate to different types of people. Many of the 30 Sayings of the Wise are warnings and start with “do not,” followed by a reason for the warning. While anyone can benefit by following the warnings and wise counsel in Proverbs, those who seek to live godly lives should pay particular attention. Throughout Proverbs, wise living and godly living are synonymous.

How should I respond?
Few of us like to hear the words, “do not.” The human spirit typically rebels against being told what attitudes and behaviors are acceptable. When the Bible says, “do not,” it isn’t simply for the sake of behavior modification; it is rooted in God’s reasoning. How do you respond to the “do not’s” in Scripture? Do you trust God’s character to set your pattern for moral and ethical living? As you read the 30 Sayings of the Wise, stop and consider the reasons given for the warnings. Then ask God to show you which bits of wisdom need to be applied to your current circumstances. Whether dealing with your own desires or relating to others, godly wisdom always has your best interest at heart.

Read – Proverbs 22:1-16

What does it say?
Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not turn from it. Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him.

What does it mean?
Verses 6 and 15 address the training and discipline of children. Training is intentionally narrowing down a child’s conduct to what pleases God, while discipline is the correction of foolish and wrong behavior. Consistent with other Proverbs, “the way” a child should be trained is in the wisdom of God. The aim should be to develop a godly heart and mind, which leads to godly conduct. It is important to remember that Proverbs are “wise sayings,” not promises. Every child has free will to choose whether or not to follow God. In general, most kids follow their parents’ example when those parents promptly exercise their authority with love (13:24) while modeling godly lives.

How should I respond?
The ultimate goal of parenting is to work yourself out of a job by preparing your kids to be responsible adults. As Christian parents, we also want our children to live godly lives. Godly behavior is the result of a godly worldview. How are you intentionally training your children to follow the Lord? It takes steadfast resolve to be consistent in disciplining foolish or rebellious behavior. Ask God to help you act promptly with patience and love. Remember, the life you model at home will outweigh any lesson or sermon at church.

Read – Proverbs 20:13-30

What does it say?
The Lord watches and examines the motives of individuals. It isn’t necessary to seek revenge; the Lord will see that justice is accomplished.

What does it mean?
Stealing, gossip, and dishonesty are detestable to the Lord. Those who do such things may seem to get away with their actions for a little while. But anyone who disregards God’s directions can only ignore Him for so long. The Lord sees everything that happens and knows every hidden motive. Wait for the Lord to make an offense right.

How should I respond?
The natural response when someone has wronged us is to get back at that person. However, the Lord makes it very clear in His Word that we are to wait for Him to handle the matter. No sin can be kept secret from the Lord; He sees every wrong done to you as well as your offenses toward others. He is sovereign over every situation and relationship in your life. Will you choose to trust God’s timing for justice? Then, ask the Lord to reveal any areas of your life that might be offending others or distancing you in your relationship with Him. We can be sure that He will judge justly – whether punishing the wicked or rewarding the righteous. What will He see as He searches your heart today?

Read – Proverbs 19:11-29

What does it say?
Wisdom gives the patience to overlook an offense. Unfailing love is what is desired.

What does it mean?
Several verses in this passage explore the dynamics of family life as Solomon offered wisdom on how to have harmony at home. The relationship between husband and wife sets the tone for everything that happens. A nagging wife combined with a lazy or hot-tempered husband is a recipe for disaster. Likewise, undisciplined, disobedient children who argue with their parents create a toxic atmosphere. Harmony is achieved when each family member chooses to overlook the routine offenses of family life and offer one another unfailing love.

How should I respond?
Facebook is full of smiling faces displaying only their best moments. But behind the posts, there are no perfect families. Disagreements are bound to occur when people continually live in close quarters. So how can your family experience unity? Show one another the same unconditional love that God has shown to you. This kind of love drives each person to be more like Christ through accountability and the willingness to immediately forgive the irritations that happen on a daily basis. Have a family meeting to openly and calmly discuss issues that need to be addressed. When each person chooses to love and forgive, then everyone can say, “There’s no place like home!”

Read – Proverbs 18:10-24

What does it say?
The Lord is a strong tower for the righteous, but the rich imagine their wealth as a fortified city. Pride is a man’s downfall, but humility leads to honor.

What does it mean?
The illustration of God’s name as a strong tower pictures a place of refuge, protection, and security. The righteous know the Lord can be trusted, and they run to Him for shelter when difficult times come. In contrast, the rich person tends to place his trust in material wealth. He imagines his wealth will last and protect him from the dangers and uncertainties that others face. Having wealth gives him an attitude of superiority and a false sense of security. The proud may have to suffer a downfall to learn humility.

How should I respond?
Everywhere you look, there are financial gurus spouting their latest plan to help you prepare for the future. But it’s impossible to plan for every financial scenario life may bring. On what or whom are you relying? While it’s wise to plan responsibly for your later years, our security should be in the Provider of everything we have, not in the provision itself. God alone knows the future and promises to meet your every need as you turn to Him for refuge. In what situation are you in danger of trusting anything other than the Lord? In times of trouble, God is to be our first line of defense – not our last resort.

Read – Proverbs 17:23-28

What does it say?
A person with knowledge and understanding is even-tempered and shows restraint in his use of words. Even a fool is considered wise if he stays quiet.

What does it mean?
As in previous Proverbs, today’s passage contains a caution regarding one’s speech. All knowledge isn’t meant to be shared, especially when situations cause tempers to rise. People with God-given understanding stay calm and know how to stop before saying something unnecessary. As a matter of fact, being quiet gives the appearance of wisdom, even for a foolish person.

How should I respond?
In our culture, the use of social media has almost completely removed restraint from speech. Some people feel the need to post their stream of consciousness for everyone to read, laying out every thought and aggravation throughout the day. Think back through your written and spoken communications yesterday. Were you a good listener? Or did your whole conversation focus on your own thoughts and opinions? Ask God to help you know what to say and when to say it. Take time to really listen in order to gain true understanding of what is happening in any given situation. Others are more likely to ask for your thoughts and opinions if they are spoken less often. Always be prepared to make the most of those God-given opportunities (Col. 4:5-6).

Read – Proverbs 17:1-16

What does it say?
Solomon described the actions of those who are evil. He stated that grandchildren are a crown of glory, and parents are the pride of their children.

What does it mean?
Solomon gave warnings concerning the behavior of the foolish – those who have left God out of their lives and do not desire wisdom. His purpose was to prepare his sons to be godly leaders and to be ready for what they would face in the real world. Children who grow up in godly, peaceful homes often have no experience with the different facets of evil around them. To avoid the influence of evil, they need discernment and guidance to make right decisions. Children who embrace their parents’ training and choose God’s way of wisdom bring joy to the hearts of their parents and grandparents.

How should I respond?
The home is where lives are developed. The challenge for parents is to display authentic Christianity and encourage their children to develop godly character, choose godly friends, and make right decisions. Investing in their lives is more than watching them excel in academics, sports, or the arts … it’s appealing to their spirits to develop a relationship with the Lord and seek His wisdom. How are you passing on the wisdom found in Proverbs to your children and grandchildren? It takes time to help them apply what Proverbs teaches, but it will prepare them for their future home and family.

Read – Proverbs 16:10-20, 28

What does it say?
Pride will eventually bring a person to disaster. It is better to have a poor and lowly life than to have much and be proud.

What does it mean?
Pride and humility cannot co-exist. The irony of pride is that it causes the opposite of what the proud person desires. The intent is to elevate one’s status, when in reality pride is the very thing that leads to a great loss or failure. A “haughty spirit” involves an attitude of superiority and a belief that others, maybe even God, are not needed to achieve success. Humility, on the other hand, involves being teachable and having a willingness to live without worldly status symbols. Humility, not pride, brings honor (Prov. 18:12; 29:23).

How should I respond?
As Christians, we are to be clothed with humility because that is how we identify with Christ (Col. 3:12; Phil. 2:5-9). For some, the personal relationship with the Lord Jesus becomes the very thing that causes a superior attitude toward unbelievers. It’s essential to guard against the belief that we are better than other people in any way. Only by regularly acknowledging our position before God are we properly positioned to be used by Him. What part has pride played in a downfall in your life? Humbly ask God to reveal any hidden areas of pride. True humility will result in honor and blessing from our gracious Lord who promised, “Whoever humbles himself will be exalted” (Matt. 23:12).

Read – Proverbs 15:16-33

What does it say?
It is much more desirable to have a home filled with love for God and people than to have a home filled with great wealth that is tainted by hate, greed, or sinful motives.

What does it mean?
Several verses in this passage emphasize that it is better to have less in this lifetime and please God than to amass much without Him. Solomon does not condemn wealth or say that prosperity is sinful. However, material gain tainted by greed or hatred cannot be enjoyed in peace. Contentment, even with little, leads to a better life for the person who is in a trusting relationship with the Lord. Building wealth by sinful means is not worth the turmoil and trouble it brings.

How should I respond?
True contentment requires a shift in focus from what we can get from God to God Himself. Greed keeps our focus on getting the things we want at any cost. But God desires that we trust Him to provide all that we need. Contentment is not dependent on wealth, achievements, or circumstances that change throughout life. Seeking a godly life brings contentment that pursuing wealth never can bring (1 Tim. 6:6). What turmoil in your life is the result of a greedy pursuit? With what is God asking you to be content? Will you choose to pursue the Lord and be satisfied with all He has provided?

Read – Proverbs 14:30-35

What does it say?
A tranquil heart gives life to the body, whereas envy corrodes the bones.

What does it mean?
Many of the proverbs are not promises but truth observed. Because of Solomon’s God-given wisdom, his observations hold great insight. Here, he recognized a timeless truth: envy affects the human body negatively. Envy is like a cancer that eats away at spiritual and physical health. Although this verse is not a formula for an illness-free life, it highlights the fact that a peaceful, calm heart controls destructive emotions. Being content with what God has provided is vital to emotional and spiritual well-being.

How should I respond?
Advertising in our society appeals to our tendency to desire what we don’t have. Coveting isn’t isolated to just wanting other people’s possessions, but applies to being discontent with our abilities and positions as well. Only God’s Spirit can help us to avoid such selfish attitudes. When we yield to His leading, envy stays under control, and our hearts remain at peace. What consuming desire is causing turmoil in your heart and mind? Will you give that desire completely to the Lord right now? Determine today to rid yourself of any emotion that hinders your spiritual or physical well-being.

Read – Proverbs 14:13-29

What does it say?
The wise are patient and prudent, guided by reverent trust and obedience to the Lord. The foolish are hasty and rash, ruled by their own spirit.

What does it mean?
The author chose two types of people to contrast the ways they deal with life. The character of each reflects what is most important to them. The wise man focuses on obedience to God, avoids evil, develops discernment, and is ultimately blessed with spiritual knowledge. The fool, however, is unaware of his reckless behavior and is known for hurting himself and others. In the end the fool always fails because he ignores God’s wisdom and follows his own foolish heart.

How should I respond?
As children, we all heard the fable of the tortoise and the hare. The wise man in today’s passage is like the tortoise: his singular focus gains him the victory. Like the hare, the fool is often exceptionally talented, either physically or intellectually. But he ultimately loses because he does not maintain focus on what is most important. Wisdom is not intelligence; it is putting into practice what God has revealed. Where is your focus? Is it on God’s Word or on your own knowledge and ability? Scripture, the antidote for foolishness, is perfect – making even the simplest person wise (Psalm 19:7).

Read – Proverbs 13:15-25

What does it say?
A wise person chooses wise friends. Loving parents are careful to discipline their children.

What does it mean?
Wise people intentionally associate with wise individuals. Associating with foolish people will eventually lead to trouble and harm. Parents who choose not to discipline their children are actually harming them by allowing their foolish nature to run free (Pro. 22:15). Loving parents want the best for their children and recognize that correction of ungodly attitudes and behavior is part of God’s plan.

How should I respond?
Today’s passage offers principles for wise parenting. First, it’s important to know your child’s friends and what kind of influence those friends have in your child’s life. When was the last time you talked with your children about their friendships? Encourage them to use discernment when choosing friends and help them recognize foolish behavior. Next, the goal of loving discipline is to guide your child’s heart to Christ, not just manage his behavior. Reflect on your parenting style, and ask God for wisdom and insight as you correct them. After all, God has entrusted your children to your care. Treat them as gifts from Him.