Be loyal and kind.
Proverbs 3:3-4 "Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will earn a good reputation."
Without a doubt, loyalty is lacking in our culture today. People leave in a blink. There doesn't seem to be much consideration for how leaving affects those they leave behind. We unfortunately see more unkindness than we ought, often displayed on social media for the world to see. Want to give a reminder that angry, biting posts directed at an "anonymous" person are still unkind. Let's be careful to choose kindness in a harsh world. Let's think before we leave or walk out on someone or something.
Don't trust in yourself or your understanding - rather, trust in God.
Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take."
Probably one of the most well known passages in all the Bible! I am thankful I can depend on God, not myself. I need Him so. God, help us trust you - show us the path you have for us!
Give to God, and give Him your best!
Proverbs 3:9 "Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce."
Yes, giving to God first may keep us living paycheck to paycheck. It may keep us driving that old car or not having that latest thing. But it also keeps us dependent. And it keeps us in awe because of the generous and creative ways God provides! It is a joy to give to God - don't miss out on the blessing!
Once again, wisdom brings JOY!
Proverbs 3:13-14 "Joyful is the person who finds wisdom, the one who gains understanding. For wisdom is more profitable than silver, and her wages are better than gold."
Amen and amen!
Help others now!
Proverbs 3:27-28 "Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it's in your power to help them. If you can help your neighbor now, don't say, 'Come back tomorrow, and then I'll help you.'"
This is convicting - how many times have we had intentions to help someone, but waited until "tomorrow" and tomorrow never came? It's so easy to be consumed with what we have going on and miss opportunities to help, or think we will do something about it someday soon but then forget. We need to help others in their time of need! God, help us to be others-focused! Help us not to get so easily distracted!
Wisdom and righteousness bring blessing.
Proverbs 3:33 "The Lord curses the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the upright."
I know we all want our homes to be blessed. We need to be careful not to live expecting God to bless us without being willing to live by His standards and do what He asks of us. If we live passionately and wholeheartedly for God, we can't help but be blessed. He is just so good! Knowing Him and serving Him is true delight!
Thank you for reading along with me. I have heard from best friends and acquaintances and even people I have never met that they are coming along on this wisdom journey. How exciting! The body of Christ is so special!
P.S. I was reminiscing and looking back on some photos from October, 2007. Such sweet, sweet memories found here!
Thank-you very much for this sharing.
ReplyDeleteDebbi