Tag Archives: the book of Proverbs

May 12
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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 most people are ridden with anxiety. 

If all we knew was what we read in the newspaper, see on the television, or hear 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 a few of the anxieties that “weigh down the heart.” 

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

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May 9
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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 counterintuitive 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 28
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“Let someone else praise you, and not your own mouth; an outsider, and not your own lips.” (Proverbs 27:2)

As the saying goes: “If it were easy, everyone would be doing it.”

Working faithfully while waiting to be acknowledged is, sometimes, very difficult. Self-promotion is nothing new. People have been burnishing their image, publishing their credentials, and boasting about their strengths since the beginning of time.

However, the wisdom of God encourages us to let our praise come from the mouth of others; from the lips of those who have no hidden interest.  A few words of praise from such people is worth more than thousands of words of self-promotion.

Choose the narrow path.  It is worth the solitude, the work, and the wait.  – Luther 

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