Tag Archives: the book of Proverbs

May 13
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“Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.” (Proverbs 12:25, NIV)

As the channels of the Good News, we live in a “target-rich environment.” That is to say, a disciple of Jesus has ample opportunity to cheer others because so many of our neighbors are ridden with anxiety.

If all we knew was what we read in the newspaper, saw on the television, or heard on the radio, we would be anxious about the condition of our food; the safety of public transport; the performance of our educational institutions; the viability of the economy; and the prospects for the future.  These are but a few of the anxieties that “weigh down the heart.”  Yet, the disciple of Jesus knows that in God there is hope.

A kind word in such an environment is always welcome. Today, will you choose to be that lighted candle in the darkness; that cool drink of water in the desert; that smile in the sea of frowns?  – Luther

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May 11
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“Be generous, and you will be prosperous. Help others, and you will be helped.” (Proverbs 11:25, Good News Translation)

If the word of God is true, then we need not fear the personal expense being generous. If the word of God is true, then we need not avoid the inconvenience of helping others.

To give liberally of our time, talent, and treasure is a litmus test of our faith in God.  To be eager to help others — particularly those who cannot return the favor — is a counter-intuitive investment in our future.

Be generous and helpful out of obedience.  This is what God expects of his children.  Be generous and helpful out of love for our heavenly Father, because doing so makes us partners with Him in His work in this world; and because doing so allows us to achieve His point of view through imitation.

We will be surprised, amazed, and humbled by the faithfulness of God when we exercise our faith in Him in these simple ways.  – Luther

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April 10
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“Do you see someone who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for them.” (Proverbs 29:20, NIV)

We live in a time where we can communicate with millions of other people in seconds, which is all the more reason we ought to heed the advice of today’s proverb.

Each day brings fresh, public examples of people speaking first, and thinking second — and the harm is often as devastating as it is irreparable.

Today, remember to measure your words. Count to ten before giving the snarky reply. Store that prickly e-mail in the “drafts” folder for a while, and re-read it later.  Hold that text message: Pressing “send” in the heat of a matter often leads to regret.

God’s wisdom is as useful in the electronic age as it was in the oral age!  – Luther

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