Tag Archives: the book of Proverbs

“He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity.” (Proverbs 2:7, NLT)

Have you ever taken a short-cut only to discover — late — that your decision will cost you more time, more money, and more energy than the longer way ’round would have?

Have you ever thought that doing the right thing might expose you to less scrupulous people that would take advantage of you or of the situation?

The scriptures tell us that the path of honesty is the correct path — always; and that God will protect all persons of integrity.

Today, make honesty and integrity in every circumstance your goal!  – Luther

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“People who accept discipline are on the pathway to life, but those who ignore correction will go astray.” (Proverbs 10:17, NLT)

Those of us who have lived more than half of our allotted years are at heightened risk of “going astray” in two basic ways: (1) Because we’ve “seen it all,” we are less open to a corrective word from someone else, especially if they are younger or less experienced than us; and (2) people who can help may be put-off when we don’t appear approachable or teachable.

Truth is truth, whether from the lips of an angel or from the mouth of a jackass (that is, the jackass of Numbers 22); and help is help, whether from a brother or from a stranger.

Today, work at being open to God’s discipline and His words of correction.  The Lord uses many personalities, agents, and circumstances to guide His people in the way that leads to life!  – Luther

Note: Remember, Daily Encouragement is on break tomorrow. Have a great day in worship. Hoping to see you again on Monday! 

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“In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:6, NASB)

If it is true that we make trouble for ourselves because, as J. B. Phillips titled his classic book, “Your God is Too Small”; the same might also be said because we think some matters of our life are too small for our heavenly Father’s attention.

We ought to accept the biblical challenge to acknowledge God in everything — large and small — whether in decisions or in giving thanks.

Through the Holy Spirit — Whom Jesus Himself referred to as the “Helper” — we have a companion who knows well the path; we have an intercessor who knows the mind of God; we have an energizer to sustain us; a teacher to educate us.

However, the Helper helps only by invitation. If we have not, it is only because we ask not.  – Luther

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