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Dear Heavenly Father, Praise I praise you today, for you are a God of wisdom and understanding. You shout in the street and lift up your voice in the public square: “Whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm” (Prov 1:33 NIV). You give wisdom, and from your mouth comes knowledge and understanding. How wonderful to worship a God like you! Praise the Lord! Today in Your Word Today you began to share with me the wise sayings and proverbs of Solomon. A proverb is a short statement that expresses a time-tested truth. Solomon’s proverbs reflect his long years of experience and his keen insight into human behavior, and they continue to inspire and instruct to this day. But more than that, his proverbs and wise sayings were inspired by your Holy Spirit. The author of Hebrews asked, “Have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons?” (Heb 12:5), and then he quoted Proverbs 3:11–12. This means that I should read Proverbs as though it was a personal letter from you. When Solomon says, “Hear, my son, your father’s instruction, and forsake not your mother’s teaching,” the voice I’m hearing is yours. What a marvelous privilege! You are sharing with me the same wisdom that made Solomon the greatest king of his day! Today you urged me to listen to your voice and obey your instruction. You told me to seek for wisdom like riches and to treasure your commands in my heart. Your wisdom will give me discernment for living. It will guard me from the wicked, it will protect me from the adulteress, and it will enable me to live righteously. The quest for wisdom is the grand calling of my life! Reflection The invitation of the gang is compelling, not only because of their promise of wealth, but also because of their offer of companionship (Prov 1:13–14). How many have fallen into bad company because they wanted a place to belong? Am I being a friend to those who are lonely? Request Father, help me welcome your discipline and cherish your rebuke. Remind me that you correct those you love, as a father the son in whom he delights (Prov 3:11–12). Thanksgiving Thank you for the many benefits of your wisdom! “Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace” (Prov 3:16–17). In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “O Happy is the Man Who Hears” — Michael Bruce. Meditation Verse: Proverbs 3:5–6. |