Unforgettable Lessons
Bible in a Year: Hosea 1-4; Revelation 1
My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart. Proverbs 3:1
Today's Scripture: Proverbs 3:1-12
Insight
The “proverbs of Solomon” were written “for gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insight” (Proverbs 1:1-2). Solomon says the beginning of such wisdom is “the fear of the Lord” (v. 7). In chapter 3, he warns his son not to be “wise in [his] own eyes” (v. 7). Only by wholly trusting in, honoring, and obeying God could he gain wisdom (vv. 5-6). That’s true for us today. When God, the source of all wisdom (2:6), is central in our hearts and minds, Scripture, prayer, and the Spirit guide and direct our lives and choices, including our interactions with others. Wisdom helps to keep us from making foolish decisions (vv. 12, 16) and helps us to treat others with love, patience, and kindness (Galatians 5:22-23; James 3:13) and thereby influence our community for good.
Corey Brooks—“The Rooftop Pastor”—spent 343 days living on the rooftop of his church on Chicago’s south side to inspire community transformation. Online, Brooks posted a “shout-out” to his elementary school teacher Joe Stokes, who taught him four unforgettable lessons: the power of perseverance, the importance of integrity, the value of community engagement, and the impact of education.
By embracing Solomon’s wisdom in Proverbs 3, we likewise can strive to live in ways that have community impact. Solomon taught four lessons that are just right for those who trust in God and are called to be a positive force: “Trust in the Lord” (v. 5); “fear the Lord and shun evil” (v. 7); “honor the Lord with your wealth” (v. 9); “do not despise the Lord’s discipline” (v. 11). Such wisdom compels us to be God-focused, but there are people-touching dimensions to our faith too.
In Matthew 5:3-12, Jesus, the ultimate embodiment of wisdom, eloquently described the internal disposition of believers in Jesus. Furthermore, He reminded them that they were high-impact people. “You are the salt of the earth” (v. 13). “You are the light of the world” (v. 14). As such, we are honored to “Let [our] light shine . . . that they may see [our] good deeds and glorify [our] Father in heaven” (v. 16).
Reflect & Pray
Who compels you to honor God in ways that also touch people? How can you reengage with lessons from the Bible you may have forgotten?
Heavenly Father, please forgive me for my failure to honor You fully. Renew my heart through Your words today.