Twelve Times Through

Daily Directions for Life

from the

Book of Proverbs

Dr. Paul R. Warder & Margery Kisby Warder

Copyright © 2014 Dr. Paul R. Warder & Margery Kisby Warder

All rights reserved.

Printed in the United States of America

Twelve Times Through

Daily Directions for Life from the Book of Proverbs

Dr. Paul R. Warder and Margery Kisby Warder

©2014 by Dr. Paul R. Warder & Margery Kisby Warder

This book or parts thereof may not be reproduced in any form without prior written permission of the copyright owners or publishers of this book except for brief excerpts in articles, reviews, or as provided by United States of America copyright law.

The views expressed within this book are the opinions of the authors.

Cover Design/Interior Design: Brandy Walker

www.sistersparrowdesigns.com

Published by Parson’s Creek Press

ISBN:13-978-1497309555

ISBN-10:1497309557

Religion/Christian Life/ Devotional

Scripture quotations: The Amplified Bible and The New American Standard Bible, Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1965, 1987 by the Lockman Foundation; used by permission.

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Wheaton Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.

Scriptures from Thompson Chain Bible, King James Version, B.B. Kirkbride Company, Inc., Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Originally published in 1908 and republished in 1964. Used by permission.

DEDICATION

To those who have demonstrated Proverbs’ truth to us

and to those who will apply them in the future.

FOREWORD

Thank you for choosing to use “Twelve Times Through” as one of your “tools for mining nuggets” from King Solomon’s Book of Proverbs in the Old Testament. We took up the tasks of excavating truths when a pastor friend challenged us to read through one chapter in Proverbs each day for a year to implement its directions for life. We liked the discipline it brought as well as the opportunity to work together on the same scriptures. That activity helped birth this book.

Each day’s reading suggests that you first read from your Bible or from an online version of the Bible, the chapter around which the insight is centered. As you read, perhaps the verse or challenge that “grabs” you will be different than the one about which we wrote. That’s great. God’s Word is a living work. Use the blank portion of the page to record your insights or prayers for applying those truths to your life. Or use the page as a journal, diary, or appointment book.

For eBook readers, we have made the switch to the online chapter easier by including the link to Bible Gateway’s webpage of that chapter in Proverbs. For simplicity’s sake, we have linked it to the New American Standard Bible (NASB), but, of course, you can select which version of the Bible you want to read when you arrive at the Bible Gateway cite. We hope the link makes it easier to navigate from this book to the online passage and back again.

We do not claim to be “experts” on the Book of Proverbs. The advice in Proverbs can help us improve our relationships within the family, with friends and co-workers, and can guide us in business practices, the difference between acting foolishly and wisely, and a host of other helpful topics.

Blessings upon you as you discover and apply timeless Biblical truths for living.  Life’s too short to live it foolishly.

JANUARY

Before us stretches days and months that no one has ever yet lived. Like those moments after a fresh snowfall, the field or street is before us, untouched, unsoiled. What would God ask of us in the coming year? Whether people later acclaim it was our best ever, or a year in which we are amazed at how we endured, let’s be determined to walk this year in confidence that God is Sovereign.

Who or what do we need to remember during January?

JANUARY ONE

Read Proverbs One  http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+1&versi  on=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Happy New Year! We begin this year studying King Solomon’s ancient writings. God declared Solomon the wisest man who ever lived. What foundational truths are in Proverbs 1? Fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge and fools hate knowledge. Also, there is folly in choosing to pursue a future without divine corrections. God lets us experience consequences of our choices.

Father, as this year begins, may my knowledge of You and my obedience to You make this the best year we’ve ever had.

JANUARY TWO

Read Proverbs Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+2&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Is this year still “unsoiled”? Solomon’s advice can be applied to our fellowship with God through His Word. I want to fear/reverence God more. Verses 1-5 offer the “if, then” correlation found in honoring God and putting Biblical truths into practice. I am to: receive (be teachable), hide (memorize, let it indwell us), listen (consider intently so we realize how we need to change), apply (become increasingly mature and Christ-like).

Loving Lord, help me grow increasingly closer to You.

JANUARY THREE

Read Proverbs Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+3&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Of what benefit is it to follow the Lord and heed His instructions? Proverbs 3 itemizes some of those benefits: long life, peace, direction, health, material blessings, happiness, a glimpse into the creativity that God used in creating the world, and restful sleep, “for the Lord will be your confidence.” Confidence in anything or anyone else is less secure.

O Lord, my Confidence, thank You for Your wisdom and direction

JANUARY FOUR

Read Proverbs Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+4&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: When people sit in quietness, what longings arise? To live rightly? To not feel alone? To be regarded with honor? Wisdom and Truth belong to God. Knowing God with increasing intimacy is a worthy pursuit. Many paths beckon those seeking God. Christ’s followers are to provide light so those lost in darkness come to God through Jesus Christ. Let’s diligently keep our hearts and ponder our paths. Only one leads to God.

Father, may Your family shine brightly.

JANUARY FIVE

Read Proverbs Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+5&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Sexual perversions are ageless. God designed man and woman for marital intimacy as His gift for a unique relationship, and apart from marital love, sexual activities are sinful perversions. Sex was designed to be uniquely beautiful. Some sell, some buy, some market, some pervert, some violently commit sexual sins. When infidelity invades homes, our civil foundation cracks and hearts break. Proverbs reminds us God sees the abuse of His gifts.

Father, bless children with a safe and secure home.

JANUARY SIX

Read Proverbs Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+6&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 6-8 Far under winter’s snowy coverings dwell contented ant colonies surviving with all things necessary for those tiny omnivores to march when spring arrives. They’re prepared for “life” though their generations are brief. Ants typically remind me to make provisions for my seasons of life, but the untiring workers” loyalty to their queen can enlighten and challenge my unqualified obedience to the Lord.

Father, may my “to and fro-ing” coincide with Your plans for my life.

JANUARY SEVEN

Read Proverbs Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+7&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Again God cries out: “keep my words”, “treasure my commands”, “bind them on your fingers”, “write them on...your hearts”. Here God specifically warns against immorality which is “crafty”, “lurking”, “enticing”, “flattering.” The result to those who succumb is like an ox led to the slaughter or a bird caught within a snare --- it leads to death! Once again the proverb proves so true the saying, “Sin takes you farther than you want to go and costs more than you want to pay.”

O God, we who wouldn’t play with fire or dynamite sometimes play with sin. Help us to see sin as You do.

JANUARY EIGHT

Read Proverbs Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+8&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Wisdom “cries out,” “speaks excellent things” and “truth.” It is better than anything else we may desire. Wisdom makes kings reign, rulers decree justice, and was with God before and during the creation of the world. Blessed are those who listen and apply wisdom’s ways. “Whoever finds me (wisdom) finds life and obtains favor from the Lord; but he who sins against me wrongs his own soul; all those who hate me love death” (vss. 35, 36).

Lord, may I diligently pursue Your wisdom rather than my own way.

JANUARY NINE

Read Proverbs Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+9&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: The foundation of Wisdom’s house is the “Fear of the Lord.”

I suspect I’m being too simplistic to try to figure out the seven pillars that are a part of Wisdom’s spacious house, but from this chapter, I’d label them as: uses good judgment, pursues wisdom, graciously receives correction, exhibits righteousness, seeks to understand God’s ways, applies wisdom to lengthen life, and values wisdom for self and others.

Father, increase my wisdom while I’m fellowshipping with You.

JANUARY TEN

Read Proverbs Ten

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+10&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Proverbs 10 has at least thirteen references to word usage. Some words encourage and lead to life. Others are empty, worthless, and so corrupt the utterer is threatened with consequences none would want. Too much talk fosters sin. Wisdom, Solomon says, comes from those with understanding; their words are helpful and like sterling. We’re reminded the fear of the Lord, where wisdom begins, lengthens life.

May my words bring You joy, my Father and my God.

JANUARY ELEVEN

Read Proverbs Eleven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+11&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Good lawyers could post: “...through knowledge shall the just be delivered.” Galatians 6 summarizes Proverbs 11: “Be not deceived; God is not mocked; for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” Victimization grieves us, confirming, “When it goeth well with the righteous, the city rejoiceth...” (KJV). Righteousness not only blesses the Lord and the righteous, but also blesses neighbors of the righteous.

Father, our righteousness fails unless its source is trust in our Savior Jesus Christ.

JANUARY TWELVE

Read Proverbs Twelve

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+12&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Is it cold outside? If you have animals, how are they faring in the weather? I remember hesitantly responding to prayer requests from children when it concerned their cats and dogs, especially when I saw the “spiritual poverty” around me. Verse 10 says, “The godly are concerned for the welfare of their animals…” (NLT). Maybe another verse’s truth I needed was in 15: “Fools think they need no advice.”

Father, thank You for caring about animals.

JANUARY THIRTEEN

Read Proverbs Thirteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+13&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: To be the man/person God wants me to be I need to: heed my father’s instruction, be careful about what I say, hate lying, know riches is not necessarily money, listen to good advice, work for my wealth, fear God’s commandments, think before I act, regard rebuke, “hang around” with wise people, leave a godly inheritance for my grandchildren, and not be afraid to discipline my children.

O God, where I know these things, help me to do them.

JANUARY FOURTEEN

Read Proverbs Fourteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+14&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: If “Righteousness exalts a nation but sin is a disgrace to any people,” our nation’s leaders and we citizens should: fear the Lord, be faithful witnesses, give thought to their ways, acknowledge their sins, fear and depart from evil, have mercy on the poor, be hardworking, find confidence in the Lord, and be slow to anger. How are we doing?

O God, may we take lessons for leadership and citizenship from Your Book.

JANUARY FIFTEEN

Read Proverbs Fifteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+15&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Why spend time arguing? Exposing and defending right and good are important, but “how” we go about doing so matters. Harsh words produce anger. The godly are to think before speaking. Gentle words bring life and health. Smiles change attitudes, especially smiles from a joyful heart feasting on what is good in life. God knows our hearts, and He loves pursuits of godliness.

Father, may my pursuit of knowing You be evident whenever I speak.

JANUARY SIXTEEN

Read Proverbs Sixteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+16&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: We need to remember that God is in charge. He: gives us the right way to answer, knows our intentions, makes everything for Himself, hates proud hearts, directs our lives, and guides our decisions. Some results of committing to Him are success according to His standards, victory over evil, peace with our enemies, and happiness.

Lord, keep me close to You that my thoughts might be Your thoughts and my plans might be Your plans.

JANUARY SEVENTEEN

Read Proverbs Seventeen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+17&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Strife is dangerous to health. Strife ruins feasts and gatherings. Once conflict starts, it has uncontrolled consequences. Defending wrong is evil in God’s eyes. When another’s spirit is broken, the cost can become physical; perhaps that’s why, in Matthew 5, Jesus said our angry words put us in danger of condemnation. Gossiping about another’s faults separates friends. A merry heart helps heal, and love perseveres in spite of shortcomings.

Bring healing, Father, wherever words have wounded.

JANUARY EIGHTEEN

Read Proverbs Eighteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+18&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: This proverb tells us that the words of our mouth bring consequences. They can bring strife, lead to our ruin, bring folly and shame, and bring death to a relationship. They can also be like life-giving water. Is it any wonder that several proverbs tell us to think before we answer?

O God, what power there is in our speech. May You be the Tamer of my tongue!

JANUARY NINETEEN

Read Proverbs Nineteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+19&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: If I want to be a man (person) after God’s own heart, there are several characteristics here: integrity, wisdom and understanding, slow to anger and quick to overlook transgressions, keeper of God’s commandments, kind to the poor, hears counsel, receives instruction, accepts correction, exhibits kindness, reverentially fears the Lord.

O God, that You might develop those characteristics in my life.

JANUARY TWENTY

Read Proverbs Twenty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+20&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: A person to imitate is sober, not quarrelsome, listens to counsel, is trustworthy, has integrity, is hardworking, speaks knowledge, and waits on the Lord for justice. A person to avoid is a heavy drinker, quarrelsome, lazy, deceitful, gossips, curses his parents, seeks revenge, and vows without considering the cost.

O Lord, plant in me those qualities that I should appropriate, and give me the strength to weed out and keep out the ones to avoid.

JANUARY TWENTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Twenty-one

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+21&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: This year, we resolve to become more “godly” because God asks us to. Verse 21 encourages us to make godliness and love our pursuits. What follows our faithfulness is God’s faithfulness, though His also preceded ours. Matthew 6:33 expands our understanding, saying essentially, if we live our lives for God’s purposes, He will bless us with all we need.

Father, this year, keep me from chasing unimportant pursuits; I want my life to glorify You.

JANUARY TWENTY-TWO

Read Proverbs Twenty-two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+22&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: This day in 1973, the US Supreme Court legalized the destruction of children prior to their first breaths outside their mothers’ bodies. Millions participated. Many grieve over selfish decisions made for convenience, saving-face, or profit. Abortions “excuse” sexual promiscuity. Verse 5 (NLT): “The deceitful walk a thorny, treacherous road; whoever values life will stay away.”

Merciful Father, we repent that our nation willingly destroys Your creations through abortion; we ask Your forgiveness; protect the unborn.

JANUARY TWENTY-THREE

Read Proverbs Twenty-three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+23&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “Children” are instructed not to envy sinners or carouse with drunkards and gluttons, and to learn from parents (vss. 17ff.). We are, by the grace of God if we have received Jesus as our personal Savior, part of God’s family (John 1:12). God is our Father. Can we offer praise to Him today for His perfect fatherliness?

I’ll start, you continue throughout the day, perhaps worshiping Him “alphabetically.” Almighty, All-knowing, Benevolent, Compassionate, Counselor, Companion, Defender, Deliverer, …

JANUARY TWENTY-FOUR

Read Proverbs Twenty-four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+24&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Advertisers run specials so we’ll renovate our homes in the coming days. Are we picky about what wisdom and knowledge lodges in our homes (vss. 3. 4)? God looks at the heart more than the outward appearance. While that applies to our physical body, could it not apply to our homes? Do we let foolishness and lies vie for our minds?

Father, show me what in my home dishonors You and help me heave it.

JANUARY TWENTY-FIVE

Read Proverbs Twenty-five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+25&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Does a certain person seem hostile to our Christianity? Solomon advises we do favors for our enemies. Do you remember hearing that the best way to get rid of an enemy is to make him a friend? Meeting physical needs tends to help whet the appetite to hear Biblical truth. Souls will spend eternity apart from God without faith in Jesus Christ, but Truth is often received through compassion.

Father, love others through me.

JANUARY TWENTY-SIX

Read Proverbs Twenty-six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+26&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Remember the goals we considered setting for this year? What stands in the way of accomplishing the “good” and “sensible” ones? Is there really “a lion in the street” or are we making excuses for our laziness? Who are we trying to fool if we don’t get about the Lord’s work, and the intentions He has for our lives? Come on, live “on purpose” for God’s glory.

Father, remind me, it’s too early to quit.

JANUARY TWENTY-SEVEN

Read Proverbs Twenty-seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+27&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: After over forty years of marriage, I’m convinced the line between “suggesting” and “nagging” is invisible (verse 15). Tone, real or perceived, is key, but I “swear” I can say, “Grab a piece of cake” very similarly to “Grab your laundry,” only to discover the reception differential. I fully intend to remain my husband’s best friend for life; therefore I must speak gently and act wisely.

Father, make me a joy to my husband.

JANUARY TWENTY-EIGHT

Read Proverbs Twenty-eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+28&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Do you have your “lion face” on (verse 1)? We “sheep” who are the Lord’s will triumph in spite of scrimmages where God’s opponents seem to have the best score. Yes, there’s “moral rot” around us (verse 2). God has things under control and will execute justice in His time. He will win. Faithfulness will be rewarded; look at this chapter’s consequences.

Father, thank You for reminding us timid sheep to be bold as lions.

JANUARY TWENTY-NINE

Read Proverbs Twenty-nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+29&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Solomon tells me that if I am wise or righteous, my father and people I may be in authority over will rejoice. In addition, I will consider the cause of the poor and seek the well-being of the upright, but I will turn away from wrath or contending with the foolish. If I am righteous, I will not vent all my feelings, and I must remember I will be considered an abomination by the wicked.

Lord, may I be the cause of others rejoicing; may others be attracted to You because of what they see of You through me.

JANUARY THIRTY

Read Proverbs Thirty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+30&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 8, 9: The warnings against riches and poverty seem to be exemplified in the Israelites in their wilderness wanderings. In Deut. 8:12-17, God warns them that when they get to the new land and have plenty of food, flocks, and gold, not to forget Him but to remember that He is the one, and not themselves, who blessed them with these things. When they were in need of food, they complained to God, not trusting in His ability to provide. How close are my prayers to a complaint list?

O God, keep me from being an “Israelite” -- forgetting about You in times of ease and plenty, and blaming You in times when things aren’t going as I think they should.

JANUARY THIRTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Thirty-one

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+31&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: The virtuous woman here is a hard and tireless worker, providing for her family and wise in her own business dealings. Fear of the Lord not only shapes these qualities, it also gives her wise and kind speech and reasons for the poor, her children, and her husband to praise her.

O God, all of us need this wisdom, skill, and compassion, but it only comes from You. May it be so in our lives as well, as we honor You.

FEBRUARY

Here we are at the start of the “LOVE” month. For some, it’s primarily memories of yesterday’s loves. For some, February provides opportunities to let those we care most directly know that they are important to us. For others, the “love month” is filled with hope and anticipation that “soon” we receive, and give, our love to someone for the rest of our lives. Remember, though, none can love us as perfectly as God, and He is most worthy of our highest and best love. Perhaps we’ll be surprised by month’s end at those we found to whom we could impart a bit of God’s love without obligation.

Who/what needs attention in February?

FEBRUARY ONE

Read Proverbs One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+1&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Verses 2-6 might be called the “mission statement” of this book. Regarding wisdom and understanding from God, He gives us these proverbs that we may: know, discern, receive, hear, acquire counsel, and comprehend what God is trying to tell us. In Proverbs, these are written so that we may know God’s wisdom. How parallel that is to the New Testament, “These things are written... that you may know that you have eternal life” (1John 5:13).

O God, thank You that You are not a mysterious, far-off God, but instead You are Someone who wants to make Himself known to Your people.

FEBRUARY TWO

Read Proverbs Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+2&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: The pursuit of wisdom or of wickedness are both active. Wisdom and understanding come as we “receive,” “incline our ears,” “apply our hearts,” “cry out,” “lift up our voice,” and “search,” for God’s instruction. Wickedness comes as we “leave” the correct path, “walk in ways of darkness,” “rejoice in doing evil,,.” and “delight” in perversity. The end of the wicked is to be cut off from God, but the end of pursuit of God is to know Him as Shield, Guard, and Preserver.

O God, today let me choose Your path instead of the path that leads away from You.

FEBRUARY THREE

Read Proverbs Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+3&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Which rules: my heart or my mind? God’s counsel belongs in my heart (vs.2) where I’m convinced of its Truth and trustworthiness (vss. 3, 5) so that my heart counsels my mind when the world’s onslaught of misinformation comes at me. If my mind rules my heart, woe is me unless it has been cleansed and transformed by Jesus Christ (vs.5 and Romans 12:2).

Lord, there’s trash littering the information highway; feed my heart Truth.

FEBRUARY FOUR

Read Proverbs Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+4&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Compared to Proverbs 4, I seem pretty lackadaisical, even a “couch potato” when it comes to pursuing wisdom and understanding and avoiding evil. Wisdom and understanding come as we “get”, “do not forsake”, “exalt”, “take a firm hold”, “not let go”, “keep”, “give attention”, and “keep your heart”. Avoiding evil also requires activity: “do not enter,” “do not walk,” “avoid,” “turn away,” “put away,” “remove your foot from.”

Lord, forgive me for not being more active in pursuing Your wisdom and avoiding evil.

FEBRUARY FIVE

Read Proverbs Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+5&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: This proverb gives another “listen up” warning ostensibly about being entrapped by an immoral woman, but it can refer to being captivated by any sin pattern. God warns: “pay attention”, “lend your ear”, “hear me now”, “do not depart from the words of my mouth”. The consequences are very serious as well: “death”, loss of our honor and wealth, “total ruin”, entrapment and entanglement in sin.

O God, keep me that I might hear and obey You and rejoice with the wife of my youth!

FEBRUARY SIX

Read Proverbs Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+6&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Solomon lists many sins. Some make headlines and result in confinement. Others we quickly excuse as a phase. God sees hearts, where sin begins. I review what God abhors: haughty eyes, lying tongue, hands that kill the innocent, a heart that plots evil, feet in a hurry to do wrong, a false witness, and a person who stirs up discord.

O, Lord, graciously, patiently scour my heart so it’s cleansed of all that offends You.

FEBRUARY SEVEN

Read Proverbs Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+7&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Valentine’s Day is coming. Proverbs 7 describes lust in detail. In Solomon’s day, lust was outside his window. Today, lust promotes most ads we see or read. If we’re married, let’s “love” our spouse. If we’re a parent or child, let’s demonstrate unselfishness by doing generous and kind things for one another. If single or “engaged,” be wise enough to admit pre- or extra-marital sex is only self-centered lust.

Loving Father, may unadulterated love reign.

FEBRUARY EIGHT

Read Proverbs Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+8&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: If I live until midnight, I’ll have completed another day. It’s the same truth for however many tomorrows I’ll be granted. How shall I fill my days? Many “voices” plea like items on a buffet, “Choose me, choose me!” What will occupy my time, my thoughts, my activities? Wisdom reminds me not to “spend/prioritize” time on pursuits to nourish pride or bank account.

Father, teach me to “spend” my time on that which glorifies You.

FEBRUARY NINE

Read Proverbs Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+9&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: At last we have a clearer understanding of what the wisdom is that Proverbs talks about: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” From the beginning verses I see that the Lord has set wisdom’s feast in readiness for me. Do I have the “fear of the Lord” or “the knowledge of the Holy One” to truly enjoy it and to reap its benefits?!

O God, may it be so!

FEBRUARY TEN

Read Proverbs Ten

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+10&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: In this chapter, Solomon contrasts righteousness and wickedness. How shy are we to call our sin, or others’ sin, “wicked”? Love we truth enough to believe wickedness results in: treasures failing, substances being cast away, violence silencing, remembrance rotting, sin increasing, fears realized, existence shortened, hope lost, speech not worth uttering? Saddest to me, God states that wicked hearts are of little worth.

Father, You warn against worship with lips only; capture, cleanse my heart.

FEBRUARY ELEVEN

Read Proverbs Eleven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+11&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Once again the writer lists some of the “fringe benefits” of pursuing righteousness -- a right relationship with God, deliverance from death and trouble, a fruitful life, and rewards in many forms. There is also the effect that the righteous have on others: others rejoice and are exalted when the righteous are in charge; the posterity of the righteous are delivered from punishment; and even God delights in him.

O God, keep me mindful of the effect for blessing I can have on others, even Yourself.

FEBRUARY TWELVE

Read Proverbs Twelve

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+12&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Here’s a checklist for fools: hate correction; plan wickedness; give treacherous advice; be cruel to animals; waste time; ignore advice; remain hot tempered; boast about wrong things. Let’s purposefully make certain we don’t have those features on our resume. Hopefully none of those characteristics are our intention. Do we resent correction? Procrastinate? Are we touchy? Do we disguise pride? If God graded us, how would we fare?

Merciful Father, I”m asking.

FEBRUARY THIRTEEN

Read Proverbs Thirteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+13&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Valentine’s Day is tomorrow. Perhaps I need to acknowledge exemplary character as my valentine to someone. Valentine recipients based on this chapter could be: a respectful child, a writer whose words were beneficial, someone who could have criticized us but didn’t, someone who lives honestly, a pastor or counselor who serves excellent spiritual food, someone who kept working for the benefit of others, someone who supported our dream, someone who gives wise advice.

Love You, God.

FEBRUARY FOURTEEN

Read Proverbs Fourteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+14&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Happy Valentine’s Day, especially to women turning houses into home, to God-fearers, to those who keep others out of trouble, to truthful witnesses, to those admitting guilt and taking steps to change. Happy Valentine’s Day to wise planners, to non-gripers, to considerate individuals, to workers who limit their talking; to those exercising self-control, to those who keep perspective, to the generous, and to godly leaders.

God, please bless the people who chose to do good.

FEBRUARY FIFTEEN

Read Proverbs Fifteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+15&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Do you want to be a blessing to others? Our speech can be healing to others (vs. 4); saying the right thing at the right moment is a blessing (vs. 23); a joyful countenance and uplifting words bring healing (vs. 30). Even God is blessed by careful speech: He delights in the prayers of the upright (vs. 8), and the words of the pure are pleasant to Him (vs. 26).

O God, may my words bring blessing and healing to others and be pleasing and a delight to You.

FEBRUARY SIXTEEN

Read Proverbs Sixteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+16&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 2: We can fool everyone, including ourselves, but we can’t fool God. He alone knows the true thoughts and intents of our hearts. Consider, “ALL have sinned and come short of the glory of God” (Rom. 3:23). Also, that the word of God “is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Heb. 4:12b). And “man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart” (1Sam. 16:7).

O God, may I have no pretense before You; may I seek to see myself as You see me, both the good and the bad.

FEBRUARY SEVENTEEN

Read Proverbs Seventeen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+17&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 6: This verse speaks of the joy of having godly grandchildren, but before that, of having godly parents. Both the parents and grandparents need to set the example of living out faith for their children and grandchildren. As Charles Bridges said of the contrast, “what a crown of thorns are ungodly offspring and graceless parents!”

O God, may I reflect You so that my children and grandchildren have a rich spiritual heritage that they may, in turn, reflect You to their children and grandchildren.

FEBRUARY EIGHTEEN

Read Proverbs Eighteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+18&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss.1, 2: The person here is one who willfully separates himself from both God and men, seeking his own selfish desires and defying any opinions but his own. He obviously has not learned the wisdom of seeking counsel from others and of trusting in the Lord and not “leaning on your own understanding” (Pr. 3:5).

O God, may I not be “wise in my own eyes” so as to refuse counsel from others or from You.

FEBRUARY NINETEEN

Read Proverbs Nineteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+19&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Fools, literally, lose their tempers, and often, their friends, family, jobs, and reputations. Playful children innocently do “foolish” things as they mature. Children refusing to change behavior when capable of doing so, bring sadness to parents’ hearts. Do we know, and live, God’s commandments well enough to teach them to others? If my world is “going wrong,” I need to re-examine my faithfulness to the Lord.

Father, show me how to be faithful to You today.

FEBRUARY TWENTY

Read Proverbs Twenty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+20&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Earlier Solomon asked, “a good wife, who can find?” and now he seems to be saying faithful, loyal men are also a scarcity. He warns that there are men who are lazy, who get into arguments, who cheat in business transactions, who do evil, and some whose conscience kicks in too late. I am blessed with a good husband and I’d encourage girls/women to wait for the "right" one, a man of integrity.

Thank You Father, for blessing me with a kind and faithful husband, and that he is the good earthly father for our children.

FEBRUARY TWENTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Twenty-One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+21&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Is the love we “sent/received” a week ago still active? Verse 12 says the Lord knows what goes on in wicked homes. No secrets. Abusers like control. They disguise their behavior, appearing enticingly “perfect” among peers as they “win” their victim. God is love. God keeps records. God hears cries from the abused. Justice will happen. What can I do to facilitate protection of the abused?

Almighty Judge, stop abusers; protect those in harm’s way.

FEBRUARY TWENTY-TWO

Read Proverbs Twenty-Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+22&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: To be a man who is “growing in favor with God and man,” I will seek: integrity, prudence, humility, fear of God, watchfulness over perversity, generosity, purity, godly wisdom, diligence in work, and trust in the Lord. I will avoid a contentious spirit, angry people, and being a surety for others’ debts.

O God, I cannot bring these about unless Your Spirit works mightily within me.

FEBRUARY TWENTY-THREE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Three

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 29-35: These verses seem to display the general pattern of any kind of sin, not just drunkenness. Sin is attractive to the senses (vs. 31; Gen. 3:6), something that we pursue (vs. 30), fools us with unpleasant consequences (vss. 29, 32), we become numbed to the predictable consequences (v.35), and in spite of terrible results, we repeat the same destructive behavior (v. 35b).

O God, thank You for victory over sin patterns as I heed Your wisdom and rely upon Your power to overcome.

FEBRUARY TWENTY-FOUR

Read Proverbs Twenty-Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+24&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “It’s not fair,” is sometimes woefully close to envy (verse. 1), and regrettably, we think things are unfair partly because of our own pride. “Life” here isn’t “fair” because Jesus Christ’s reign is incomplete until He returns. Righting wrongs is partly why Christ is returning, and partly why Heaven awaits those who humbly choose to be in God’s family through faith in Jesus Christ.

Father, help me offer encouragement to those unfairly accused. (Verses 11, 12)

FEBRUARY TWENTY-FIVE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+25&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: How good is my word? Verses 14 and 19 speak of the importance of reliability. Can our family, friends, co-workers “trust” us when we say we’ll accomplish something? If plans must change, I humbly owe them an apology and an explanation. Keeping our word will inconvenience us, but it rarely ought to inconvenience others. Are we brave enough to check to see if we’re a promise short?

Father, You take my promises seriously, including our wedding vows.

FEBRUARY TWENTY-SIX

Read Proverbs Twenty-Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+26&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Honor is inconsistent with being a fool and it’s wasted on him. There is both a time to answer and a time not to answer a fool. When answering, use wisdom. A fool is not a dependable messenger. Wise sayings are useless and hurtful to a fool. Fools refuse to learn from mistakes; instead, choosing to repeat them. However, worse than a fool is someone who sees no need for wisdom or correction.

O God, please convict me when I become “wise in my own eyes.”

FEBRUARY TWENTY-SEVEN

Read Proverbs Twenty-Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+27&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: A “wise man” lets others praise him rather than himself; is not afraid to honestly rebuke a friend; is willing to receive counsel; can be counted on; has honest interaction with others that “sharpens” him; willingly serves others; and knows the transiency of riches and power. His true nature is revealed by his heart; his value is from what his friends say about him.

O God, order my attitudes and relationships that I might be a “wiser” person according to Your standards.

FEBRUARY TWENTY-EIGHT

Read Proverbs Twenty-Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+28&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Solomon offers two choices: One, become a righteous person filled with understanding, maybe not rich but honest and contented because I’ll know that the law, the poor, and the Lord are pleased with me. Or, two, become a rich, hardhearted, perverse scoundrel who oppresses the poor, acts lawlessly, extorts others, and has no problem proudly taking others down the same path. Easy, I choose to pursue righteousness secured through Jesus Christ, who was solely, wholly, righteous.

O God, give me the steadfastness to continue in the right choice.

(OCCASIONALLY: FEBRUARY TWENTY-NINE)

Read Proverbs Twenty-Nine (if today’s the 29th…)

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+29version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: If we’re rejoicing today, it’s likely righteous people are having an impact in our city, our state, our nation. Groaning happens when consequences seem unfair, and the higher the official who deals unfairly with his “subjects,” the more numerous are the people with a desire to groan. Righteous leaders bring stability to a nation. Good people want the righteous to reign. Fearing man above God is a snare.

Father, You alone deserve my greatest allegiance.

MARCH

What would this month be like if we thought of it as a verb, a command, or an invitation to greater commitment? Where would we go and what would we attempt to do if we “marched” through March this year, listening for the Lord’s directions?

Who or what needs attention?

MARCH ONE

Read Proverbs One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+1&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Whatever our responsibility as a parent, child, or friend, may “Truth” become our eager pursuit. I fail to glean truth if I come to the Bible thinking I have nothing more to learn. God has laid out His lesson plans for our education to succeed in life. Two truths I pick for today: the fear of the Lord is my starting place and I have the responsibility to turn from evil.

Lord, help me flee all that opposes You.

MARCH TWO

Read Proverbs Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+2&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: How badly do you want it? Would you go after it with the same fervor you would look for that silver necklace, or those $20 bills you thought you had in your possession a few hours ago? If we truly want “wisdom” that will still be truth when we’re at the end of our lives, truth we can pass on to coming generations, then begin by fearing the Lord.

Father, You’ve never been wrong yet!

MARCH THREE

Read Proverbs Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+3&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: How lovely is the “necklace” of loyalty and kindness. For a satisfying life and a good reputation, God, through Solomon, tells me to study and apply God’s Word, and to personify loyalty and kindness. The result? Favor with God and people. How would our world improve if we Christians genuinely had a heart for God’s Word, loyalty to Jesus Christ, and we extended kindness to fellowman?

Father, unless Jesus reigns within me, I fail You

MARCH FOUR

Read Proverbs Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+4&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: "Above all else, guard your heart…for it is the wellspring of life" (NIV) "for it affects everything you do" (NLT). The writer then tells of watching our speech and our behavior. Jesus speaks of this when he tells us that it is not what is outside but what is inside that defiles a person (Matt. 15:11). James tells us our outward squabbles come from inward selfish desires (James 4:1). Paul says that turning our requests over to God results in the peace of God that will "guard our hearts and our minds through Christ Jesus" (Phil. 4:6-7).

O God, I hear You speaking over and over to allow You to be Watchman of what I allow into my life because that affects what I think, say, or do. May You be not a temporary but a permanent Security Guard.

MARCH FIVE

Read Proverbs Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+5&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: We willfully act and speak. Discretion is our freedom to choose words and actions. Our behavior exposes our attitudes towards righteousness. Righteousness is pure, just, moral, blameless, without fault. God is righteous. Any righteousness we have is only because we invited God to indwell us. Solomon urges his son to use wisdom as the basis for discretion because God thoroughly knows us. Fools choose to let sin destroy them.

Father, train me to flee foolishness.

MARCH SIX

Read Proverbs Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+6&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: One continuing theme in the Proverbs is the use of the tongue. In Proverbs 6 the destructive forms of speech are: a perverse mouth, lying, false witness, sowing discord, and seductive flattery. Study seems to indicate the difference between lying and false witness is that a false witness has the specific intent of deceiving and cheating. Again, what is going on in the heart that produces such expression in speech?

"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me" that is reflected in the ways I talk.

MARCH SEVEN

Read Proverbs Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+7&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “They’re out there.” Speaking as parent, friend, tour guide, commander, Solomon sets it out plainly: More than heartache awaits participants in prostitution, in sexual behavior outside marriage. In Proverbs 5, he encourages sexual delight within marriage. In 6, he warns another’s spouse is off-limits. And, in 7, Solomon presents the “docu-drama” of destruction from sexual immorality. Imagine how different lives, minds, hearts, homes, children, nations would be if moral purity reigned.

Father, purify us; be glorified.

MARCH EIGHT

Read Proverbs Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+8&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: We live in a time when common sense and decency are disappearing. Our cry should be “Listen to God’s Wisdom!" "All the words of my mouth are righteous (upright and in right standing with God); there is nothing contrary to truth or wicked in them. They are plain to him who understands [and opens his heart], and right to those who find knowledge [and live by it]" ( vss. 8,9 Ampl.).

O that many, in all walks of life, might heed the call to “get wisdom.”

MARCH NINE

Read Proverbs Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+9&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Both Wisdom (vs. 1-6) and Folly (vss.13-18) invite people into their houses to eat. The feast prepared by Wisdom is meat and wine (“nourishment for the mind and heart which make one strong and happy”) [Keil]. The meal of Folly consists of “stolen water” and “food eaten in secret” (“pleasures...sweet because they are forbidden”) [Ampl.] which end up tasting like “a mouthful of gravel” (Prov.20:17). The result of the Wisdom banquet is life; the Folly banquet is death. "Do not work for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to eternal life" (Jn. 6:27).

O God, may it ever be a “no-brainer” as to whose invitation I accept.

MARCH TEN

Read Proverbs Ten

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+10&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: There are many blessings for those who seek a right relationship with God: a well fed soul, a blessed memory as their legacy, their labor leads to life, and they have an everlasting foundation. However, one of the main areas demonstrating this righteousness is in speech. The speech of the righteous:  is a well of life, is like choice silver, feeds many, brings forth wisdom, and knows what is acceptable.

O God, as I grow closer to You, may it be evidenced in my speech.

MARCH ELEVEN

Read Proverbs Eleven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+11&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Where does wisdom come from? Some of it comes from humility. What is humility? According to verse 2, the humble are "those who are lowly, who have been pruned or chiseled by trial, and renounce self." (Amplified) Like many of the other characteristics that we desire from God, we would like wisdom to come the easy way rather than through “trials and chiseling.”

Even so, come Lord Jesus, and thank You for the work You would do in my life, by whatever means You choose.

MARCH TWELVE

Read Proverbs Twelve

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+12&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: "Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who deal truthfully are His delight" (vs. 22). The amplified translation of “abomination” is: “extremely disgusting and hateful to the Lord.”In vs. 17, "He who breathes out truth shows forth righteousness (uprightness and right standing with God).” The lying tongue is “only for a moment” but the truthful tongue is established forever.

O God, may my speech be a delight and not a disgust to You, and reflect a right relationship with You.

MARCH THIRTEEN

Read Proverbs Thirteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+13&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: "Do you want some advice?" How we answer that question and discern where it is coming from are important. To heed wise, godly advice produces wisdom, reward, “a fountain of life,” and honor. Those who refuse wise counsel and careful rebuke, however, will receive strife, destruction, death, poverty, shame, and harm. (vss. 1, 10, 13, 14, 18, 20).

Lord, help me to be discerning of when I am receiving wise counseling and even rebuke, and to hear what You are telling me through it.

MARCH FOURTEEN

Read Proverbs Fourteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+14&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Jesus suffered the whippings, the humiliation and pain of the crucifixion because witnesses lied (Read vs. 5 and Matthew 26:59-61 and Mark 15:10). A lie takes on a devastating life of its own (James 3). Lies ought not be part of our “vocabulary.” Sovereign God can bring good from ugly dishonesty. God offered forgiveness of our sins by the sacrificial death of Sinless Jesus Christ.

Sovereign God, accomplish Your good will regardless of humankind’s lies.

MARCH FIFTEEN

Read Proverbs Fifteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+15&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: My adult niece has never heard her father raise his voice. I didn’t earn that “star,” but I can seek to speak gently to avoid stirring up anger and to bring “life” and “health” to others. God hears all our words. He’s also fully aware of our thoughts, our hearts, the “look” we give others and He knows to what degree we reverence Him.

Lord, help me more perfectly love You with all that I am.

MARCH SIXTEEN

Read Proverbs Sixteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+16&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “The Lord has made everything for His own purposes” (vs. 4 NLT). How inclusive is “everything” when we face a tough outcome? Because we only see a small portion of the “big picture,” we’re tempted to throw “why’s” at God. Does God get it right every other time, except when the problem is ours? Patience and trust in God’s love and faithfulness can calm our panicked minds.

Father, I trust Your training program for me.

MARCH SEVENTEEN

Read Proverbs Seventeen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+17&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Has a well-intentioned action backfired on you? When we are accused of wrong-doing by someone we had set out to help, let’s remember verse 3 “… the Lord tests the heart.” If our explanations fall on deaf ears, let’s extend grace to those who need it (vss. 9, 13). Truth will surface eventually. There’s a time to not plead our case (vss. 14, 19, 27).

Father, use me to bless others and be patient when misunderstood.

MARCH EIGHTEEN

Read Proverbs Eighteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+17&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 22: This proverb says finding a wife is a “good thing.” Other proverbs expand this, making it an understatement. “A capable, intelligent, and virtuous woman...” “is far more precious than jewels..” (31:10 Ampl.); “a crowning joy to her husband” (12:4 Ampl.); and, most importantly, she is “from the Lord” (19:14).

O God, the Giver of “all good and perfect gifts,” thank You for the

gift of my wife!

MARCH NINETEEN

Read Proverbs Nineteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+1&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Verse three reads: “People ruin their lives by their own foolishness and then are angry at the Lord” (NLT). Verse 11 advises against angry outbursts; Vss. 15 and 24 address laziness; vss. 16/17, warn about ignoring God’s commands and selfishly keeping resources; and 26 reminds us to respect parents. Forget blaming “the way I’m made,” not having enough to tithe, parents, or God. Most often we cause our “ruin.”

Father, convict me to “own” sin’s consequences.

MARCH TWENTY

Read Proverbs Twenty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+20&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: I see a connection between some verses here. The Lord’s “searchlight” penetrates our innermost being, searching out hidden motives (vs.27). Under the penetrating gaze of a holy God, we can only declare (vs. 9), “Who can say, “I have cleansed my heart, I am pure from sin.”?” However, a person who allows his life to be ordered by the Lord (vs.24), is a person of integrity whose children are even blessed because of his choosing to follow the Lord (vs.7).

Search me O God and know my heart... and lead me in the way everlasting. (Ps. 139:23, 24)

MARCH TWENTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Twenty-One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+21&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: This Proverb chapter reminds us that God looks at the heart. We cannot fool Him. He is pleased when we do right more than when we “sacrificially” give to Him. God knows what goes on in our homes and the wicked will reap disaster. He knows how we deal with others. Solomon says, (vs. 15) “Justice is a joy to the godly, but it causes dismay among evildoers” (NLT).

Lord, let justice and mercy come.

MARCH TWENTY-TWO

Read Proverbs Twenty-Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+22&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 1 “a good name... more desired than great riches, favor...better than silver or gold.” A good name is more than family background; it is most precious when we belong to the family of God. Bearing Christ’s name is better than silver and gold; being in favor with God is desired more than the favor of men.

O God, may I bear Your Name boldly, unashamedly, and obviously that others might observe and glorify You.

MARCH TWENTY-THREE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+23&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: If we define the “heart” as the center of our attitude and focus, influencing even what we think about ourselves, then according to this Proverb, we should direct our hearts toward instruction and wisdom. This will keep us on the right course and lead to rejoicing. We should also beware of and avoid “hearts” that are deceitful and envious.

O God, if I am to “guard my heart with all diligence” (Pr. 4:23), would You be the Watchman?

MARCH TWENTY-FOUR

Read Proverbs Twenty-Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+24&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Wisdom is Proverbs’ main theme. Here, he who builds a life foundation of wisdom, knowledge, and understanding: seeks wise counsel, speaks up for the helpless, is not glad when his enemy falls, is not envious of evil doers, is impartial, is careful in his answers, and does not seek revenge against his neighbor.

O God, I desire to be a “wise” person, handling people and situations according to Your ways and not according to my own “natural” inclinations.

MARCH TWENTY-FIVE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+25&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 19: Have you ever known someone who was undependable, someone who let you down when you were counting on them? Proverbs says they are like a bad tooth (not to be relied on for chewing) or a lame foot (not to be trusted to hold you up). More importantly, have you ever been that “bad tooth” or that “lame foot”?

O God, forgive me for letting down someone who was counting on me; help me to make things right with them and to be more trustworthy in the future

MARCH TWENTY-SIX

Read Proverbs Twenty-Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+26&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Individuals without Christ are entangled in deceit, lost in lies that cannot coincide with Truth. Solomon rails against deceitfulness and lies, and especially against those who deliver lies to others. In our silence about salvation through Jesus Christ, are we leaving the world to fend for itself? Why did God graciously clue us in about Jesus Christ?

Father, remind me daily the world needs to know Your loving offer of restoration through Jesus Christ.

MARCH TWENTY-SEVEN

Read Proverbs Twenty-Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+27&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Ever tried to weigh your wrath or anger? Ever been frightened by someone hurling wrath? Heavier than stone or sand is wrath. Uncontrolled wrath or anger probably changes our blood pressure. Solomon says envy is worse. Envy? Isn’t envy like a domesticated pet we could cuddle without anyone even detecting? No. Envy is behind most evil, including anger and wrath.

Father, through Jesus Christ, You have given everything essential for us to be content.

MARCH TWENTY-EIGHT

Read Proverbs Twenty-Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+28&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 13 Contrast this verse with Psalm 32:1,2. The person in Proverbs is in difficulty because he tries to cover sin (either by denying it or trying to conceal it). The person in Psalm 32 is blessed because God covers his sin (through the man’s repentance and confession, covered by God’s forgiveness and pardon). Both describe the misery of trying to hide sin and the relief and joy of confessing and forsaking sin and thereby receiving God’s mercy. (See also 1John 1:8-10.)

O God, thank You for making Your forgiveness so complete and so much more enjoyable than our sin.

MARCH TWENTY-NINE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+29&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Our government leaders need to consider: Godly leaders bring rejoicing, but wicked leaders bring groaning. A just ruler brings stability; those who accept bribes bring destruction. A ruler who knows the rights of the poor and is fair to them will have a long reign. If he honors liars, his advisers will be liars. When the wicked are in authority, sin increases. All justice ultimately does not come from him but from the Lord.

O God, I pray for our government leaders today, that they might be men and women who seek You.

MARCH THIRTY

Read Proverbs Thirty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+30&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: This chapter has several “lists” and some interesting criticisms of disrespectful youth in an ancient civilization. After praising the value of God’s Word, author Agur points out that the youth curse parents, fail to see their own faults, their eyes are “lofty,” and they practically “eat” the poor. I’m thankful there are many considerate youth, but each generation needs to study God’s Word to live a meaningful life.

Lord, help young people know Truth.

MARCH THIRTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Thirty-One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+31&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Can my husband’s heart trust me? Do I do him good? Do I rise so “home” is a place he likes to be? Are my purchases healthful and necessary? Do I give full “consideration” to my purchases? Do I remember the poor, the needy? How can I enhance my husband’s reputation? Does my husband hear my gentlest words? Is the Lord my highest priority?

Father, may one way You bless my husband be through me.

APRIL

How did we end up deciding we had one day when we can expect to be “fooled”?

April is a great month to find legitimate ways to add laughter to life, but not at the expense of someone who doesn’t understand teasing. Teasing can cause withdrawal and depression if the person teased is uncertain about our love.

As we read through Proverbs this month, let’s make certain we’re eradicating the “foolishness” we have in our lives and get on to the seriousness of making our lives count for the glory of the Lord.

Who or what needs attention in April?

APRIL ONE

Read Proverbs One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+1&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: There is great benefit from receiving God’s wisdom and instruction. The fear of the Lord begins as God actively pursues us to impart His wisdom, and there are also serious consequences for ignoring Him. How awful are the consequences for any who choose to have their own way, but how confident and secure we can be if we welcome His wisdom.

O God, thank You for loving us enough to share Your Wisdom with us.

APRIL TWO

Read Proverbs Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+2&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss.20-21: “Keeping on the right path,” according to Proverbs is to treasure, thirst for, and find pleasant such things as wisdom, knowledge and understanding. Vss. 20-21 say then we will walk on the path not just of goodness and righteousness, but of good men and righteous men. I thought not only of how precious and rare positive role models are today, but of how we are to be those role models for others as well. We are not perfect, but as the old song says, “We are the only Jesus that some will ever see.”

Lord, keep me on Your path, that I may help keep others on that path as well.

APRIL THREE

Read Proverbs Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+3&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: People long for peace. Studying God’s Word offers peace, plus, Solomon writes, added length of days and long life. These are outcomes of our keeping, and not forgetting, what God writes upon our hearts. We are to inscribe upon our hearts, “Mercy” and “Truth.” We’ll “misspell” unless we saturate our being with God’s Word because His wisdom is far superior to our finest thinking.

Creator, Sustainer of Life, You are beyond worthy of my greatest devotion.

APRIL FOUR

Read Proverbs Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+4&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: What a sobering chapter. Oh, how the world needs patient fathers offering their children genuine wisdom and fathers who model the character traits children should imitate. Do we have fathers bold enough today to value wisdom over gadgets and gimmicks? Parenting takes time. Wisdom provides the path to a good future. Without wisdom, lives are wasted and wickedness increases. The righteous are like dawn; the wicked like darkness.

Father, raise up courageous and godly men.

APRIL FIVE

Read Proverbs Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+5&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Sexually transmitted diseases? Eavesdrop on Solomon warning his son: the immoral woman has disease waiting to consume his body, with results that will last longer than his desire to consume her, and those who stray to her door will spend time agonizing over their regrettable decision. In our culture, roles of “strayers” and “enticers” are interchangeable. Solomon advises rejoicing in the faithfulness between husbands and wives.

Compassionate Lord, thank You for so wisely creating love.

APRIL SIX

Read Proverbs Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+6&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: How important it is to know what our Lord hates - a proud look, a lying tongue, shedding of innocent blood, a heart that devises evil plans, eagerness to do evil, and sowing of discord among believers. The old catechism definition of sin is so simple but so inclusive: “Sin is everything in thought, word, or deed contrary to the will of God.”

O God, give me the desire to love what You love and to hate what You hate.

APRIL SEVEN

Read Proverbs Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+7&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Heeding God’s wisdom is a matter of life and death. His wisdom is to be treasured, consistently remembered, and embedded in our lives. Sin, whether immorality or other, waits for us, lures, flatters, and tempts us, and tries to convince us to ignore the possibility of a day of reckoning. As Christ-followers, why would we want to even be in the “neighborhood” of that which will ultimately destroy us?

O God, help me treasure and follow Your wisdom that leads to abundant life rather than go down the path toward fleeting and destructive pleasure.

APRIL EIGHT

Read Proverbs Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+8&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Pr. 9:10). In 8:13, “The fear of the Lord is to hate evil.” If we want the Lord’s wisdom, we will not only stand in awesome reverence of Him, we will also love what He loves and hate what He hates. Among the evils that the Lord hates are pride, arrogance, sinful conduct, and sinful speech.

O God, may I bring my attitude, conduct, and speech under Your control, that I might not be saying I fear You with my lips while being hateful to You in my life.

APRIL NINE

Read Proverbs Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+9&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Like many deceptions, the false is packaged much in the same way as the truth. Here, both wisdom and folly call out to potential customers. Both say to the simple, "Turn in here." Both have a banquet waiting for them. However, there are significant differences. The results of coming to wisdom are life and understanding; the results of turning to folly are death and deception. Indeed, Satan often disguises as an angel of light.

Lord, let me not be deceived by the “packaging”, but instead let me discern the real and true.

APRIL TEN

Read Proverbs Ten

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+10&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 12: "Hatred stirs up strife; but love covers all transgressions" (NASB). 1Pet. 4:8 says love “covers a multitude of sins [forgives and disregards the offenses of others]” (Ampl.). 1Cor. 13:4-7, gives us some characteristics of a love that can be that powerful (patient, kind, not insisting on its own way, not easily angered, does not keep record of wrongs...).

O God, help me to be a “transgression coverer,” through love that is characteristic of You and comes from You, that my transgressor might be won to You.

APRIL ELEVEN

Read Proverbs Eleven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+11&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Is everything about us genuine? Fakery, insincerity is an abomination in the Lord’s opinion. Genuine righteousness benefits us. It also benefits others, more than our physical eyes or imperfect understanding can measure. Deception may fool others, even for a lifetime, but not our All-Knowing God for a nanosecond.

Search me, O God, and if there be any wicked way in me, help me dislike it as much as You do so I’ll let You lead me into Your paths of righteousness, for Your name’s sake.

APRIL TWELVE

Read Proverbs Twelve

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+12&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Here are truths on the righteous person’s checklist: loves discipline, obtains the Lord’s favor, immoveable, thinks justly, assists in delivering from injustice, has good sense, is sincerely humble, respects animals, works, avoids entrapments, experiences contentment, remains teachable, knows one’s own truthful and healing words matter more than evaluations by others, knows more than tells, practices diligence, turns from evil, provides for self and family, and lives purposefully.

Righteous Father, thank You for sacrificially claiming me as Yours.

APRIL THIRTEEN

Read Proverbs Thirteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+13&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: When we disciplined children, we said, “We care how you turn out.” Children benefit from obeying and honoring their parent(s). Ultimately, God is my parent. God offers life-long help to those who obey Him and apply His principles. Life, light, joy, success, respect, even providing something for grandchildren are part of what God offers those who follow His ways. However, God, a perfect parent, disciplines because He loves us.

Father, discipline me where I need disciplining.

APRIL FOURTEEN

Read Proverbs Fourteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+14&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Solomon discovered we can deceive ourselves. We can think we know what’s best. However, unless we reverence God, we’re headed in the wrong direction. When we avoid letting God rule over our “paths,” we may think we’re simply politely ignoring God, but God sees our heart’s intent. He calls it despising Him. Halt! Who of us wants to despise anyone? I never wanted God to think I despised Him.

Keeper of My Heart, direct my steps.

APRIL FIFTEEN

Read Proverbs Fifteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+15&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: What pleases the Lord? The prayers of the upright are His delight! He loves those who pursue righteousness (moral and spiritual rectitude in every area and relation) (Ampl.). Pure words are pleasing to Him. He, the Lord of the universe, listens to the prayers of those who seek right relationship with Him. Vs. 16 even tells us that this close reverent relationship with the Lord is more to be preferred than great riches without it.

Lord, thank You for letting us know how we can be close to You and what Your “love languages” are.

APRIL SIXTEEN

Read Proverbs Sixteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+16&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: We rationalize our plans easily. Rationalization is a "caution sign" for me. Solomon says we may think we’re pure, using our standards. God doesn’t just look at what we do or at who was blessed by our charity, etc. God looks at our hearts, evaluating our motives. We are to commit our work to the Lord because when we were created, we were designed to accomplish God’s purposes with our lives. We’ll live more peacefully, at least in the spiritual sense, if the Lord is in control.

Father, help me to be more like Jesus always.

APRIL SEVENTEEN

Read Proverbs Seventeen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+17&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 9: We can forgive a sin against us, or hold a grudge, or go tell someone else how awfully we were treated. The Proverbs way, however, because of love, is to forgive and seek reconciliation. Our model is our Savior, who “when they hurled insults at Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats. Instead, He entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly” (1Pet. 3:23).

O God, we have never suffered as Jesus did, regardless of how cruelly others have treated us. “May that mind be in us that was also in Christ Jesus...” (Phil. 2:5).

APRIL EIGHTEEN

Read Proverbs Eighteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+18&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Consider relationships. Solomon states that someone in an estranged relationship will lash out irrationally and that fools would rather cause strife and express an opinion than gain understanding. Truth can prevent strife, and intelligent minds acquire knowledge. Words from a wicked or foolish person can break spirits. How sad that some fools pretend to be a friend while “whispering” and causing strife. God offers His strong, safe tower.

May my relationships bring You honor, Lord.

APRIL NINETEEN

Read Proverbs Nineteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+19&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Walking with God sometimes has negative and positive aspects. Negatively, when we are in trouble because of sin of our own making, we blame God. On the positive side, we are told: a prudent wife is a gift from God; giving to the poor is like giving to God; and, if we want long lasting results from our plans, they should be aligned with the Lord’s purposes for us. Finally, our connection to the Lord is important because, “the fear of the Lord leads to life, so that one may sleep satisfied, untouched by evil” (NASB).

O God, thank You for the privileges of knowing and serving You.

APRIL TWENTY

Read Proverbs Twenty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+20&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Dads should remember: The just man exhibits integrity: his children are blessed. Teacher should know: a child will reveal the truth about whether his work is pure and right. Budgeting advice: to avoid poverty, don’t love sleep. Counsel for children: cursing parents shortens your life. Business principle: Different weights/measures horrify the Lord. Leadership advice: mercy and truth are essential. Dating advice: bragging about one’s goodness does not guarantee faithfulness.

Father, Your wisdom reveals Your love.

APRIL TWENTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Twenty-One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+21&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 13, 26: I see a connection between these two verses. Both talk about giving and about giving willingly. The first reminded me that sometimes we are on the giving side and sometimes we are on the receiving side. We sometimes cry out to God for help; we sometimes are God’s answer to others’ cries for help.

O God, I know You have often answered our cries for help; help me be aware of how I might be part of Your answer to someone else’s cry for help.

APRIL TWENTY-TWO

Read Proverbs Twenty-Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+22&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Secrets of success? Remember, a good reputation is priceless; fear the Lord who made us for His purposes; learn to plan ahead; practice humility; teach youth what is right; be generous; avoid laziness; practice discipline; remember, God defends those who are taken advantage of; resist borrowing; don’t sign for another’s loan; avoid doing business with angry people; and become a wise and competent worker.

Father, guide me, as Your follower, and make me righteously successful.

APRIL TWENTY-THREE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+23&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Our life’s significance is about so much more than gaining wealth. Wealth can take flight, or disappear overnight. Rather, we ought to commit ourselves to instruction, to discipline our hearts to stay on the right course by going after the truth in wisdom. Life is joyful if we can discern and avoid what is false and foolish. This chapter warns against unhealthy food, illicit sex and addiction.

Father, You are Truth for all times.

APRIL TWENTY-FOUR

Read Proverbs Twenty-Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+24&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 10: “If you fail under pressure, your strength is not very great” (NLT). We might fail when we try to operate under our own strength. But “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble “(Ps. 46:1). “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped; therefore my heart exults, and with my song I shall thank Him” (Ps. 28:7). That is why, rather than fainting (failing) under pressure, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Phil.4:13).

Thank You, Refuge and Strength provider.

APRIL TWENTY-FIVE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+25&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: This proverb includes wise and unwise ways of speaking. Don’t share matters spoken to you in confidentiality. Advice and encouragement shared at the right time and listening to and obeying a wise rebuke are both precious gifts. Words of encouragement and good news are refreshing. Examples of destructive words are false boasts, lying about others, gossip, and quarreling. A powerful word is a gentle answer in the midst of opposition.

“Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips” (Ps. 141:3, NASB).

APRIL TWENTY-SIX

Read Proverbs Twenty-Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+26&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Almost half of this chapter is about fools. Such things as honor, trust, and wisdom are wasted on fools. However, in verse 12, “there is more hope for a fool than for a person who is “wise in his own eyes.” These “wise ones” are the people of Luke 18:11-12, who self-righteously “thank God that they are not like other men.” The “fools” here, however are like the tax collector in Luke 18:13, who humbly acknowledges before God, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner.”

O God, let me never be so “wise” that I forget my need for You and what You have done for me.

APRIL TWENTY-SEVEN

Read Proverbs Twenty-Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+27&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Friends, we all want them; hopefully, we want to be a good friend. Solomon says the heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense. He says a good friend “sharpens” us, but we’re to be the good friend that “sharpens” our friend, too. If our friend could benefit from my acknowledging his/her praiseworthy traits, I should speak up. Bragging about oneself is unwise.

Father, help me be a good friend.

APRIL TWENTY-EIGHT

Read Proverbs Twenty-Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+28&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Today’s governmental leaders could garner truths from King Solomon’s experience. National upheavals are avoidable: seat wisdom at the helm. I, too, could be “bold as a lion” when falsehoods beg I stray with them, but only if I let God’s Word nurture me. Poverty, in coin, and in life, should result if I neglect applying Truth to life.

O, Lord, give me this day my daily bread and help me forsake “harmful snacking” on untruths.

APRIL TWENTY-NINE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+29&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 25 speaks of the fear of man versus trust in the Lord. The first is a snare, the second is exaltation. Hypothetically, it seems to be a “no brainer” - Trust God! But how often are we afraid of what other people may think about us if we become too “godly”? How often are we afraid of losing a relationship if we share Christ with them? John 12:42-43 says that many believed Jesus but would not confess their faith, ... “for they loved the approval of men rather than the approval of God.”

O God, may I seek Your approval more than the approval of men.

APRIL THIRTY

Read Proverbs Thirty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+30&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: All our learning is worthless unless we have an intimate knowledge of God. Some things we might know about Him are that: He is master over Creation; His words are pure; He is a shield for those who trust in Him; He can remove falsehoods from our thinking; He can determine what amount of wealth we need and can handle. Our response includes desire to know His name (intimate knowledge of His Person), not adding to His words, and standing in awe and wonder at His ways.

O God, help me to know You, from whom comes true wisdom and true knowledge.

MAY

I remember being impressed when my son was at a place in his life when he could say, “Just because you can doesn’t mean you should.” We sometimes train our children to request permission by using “may” rather than “can.” Perhaps we could ask, “Father, what may I do for You, this month?”

And who or what needs our attention in May

MAY ONE

Read Proverbs One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+1&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 7 This is a key verse in Proverbs. “Fear” = to rightly reverence, realizing danger (from ignoring Him and our own weaknesses); “beginning” = the starting point and essence. Wisdom comes from God and whoever fears Him receives it. (James 1:5ff) One outcome of this process is understanding, for those who do the will of the Lord (Ps. 111:10) and depart from evil (Job 28:28). A fool despises (has open contempt) for instruction and discipline from the Lord.

O God, as an attitude of life, may I more humbly reverence You and be grateful for the wisdom that comes from being close to You and obeying Your instruction.

MAY TWO

Read Proverbs Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+2&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Proverbs 2 implies unwritten “if, then” propositions. Consider reading through Proverbs 2 to find several “then”(s) dependent upon our “if”(s). For example, if I listen and treasure God’s instruction, if I tune (interesting thought) my ears to wisdom, if I concentrate (actively) on understanding, if I cry for insight, a first couple “then”s are understanding more fully how to fear the Lord, how to personally know Almighty God.

Lord, move me from “if” to “then.”

MAY THREE

Read Proverbs Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+3&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: What parental advice has been most beneficial to me, to my children? Did Solomon drill his son’s grasp of wisdom as we drill mathematical facts? Do we prize loyalty and kindness? How loyal are we to God?  Do we seek God’s will before we act, or, after we’re in “the consequence” and need God’s blessing or rescue? When was the last time I thanked God for His discipline?

May my life and Your will align, O God.

MAY FOUR

Read Proverbs Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+4&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Children, why listen to parents? Isn’t it because parents have the advantage of possessing greater knowledge? Parents are to offer wisdom, guidance, and tips on how to get through life’s situations by having sound judgment about one’s circumstances. Parental words are wasted if the child sets a course that makes him/her unteachable. Simple instructions, like, not being where evil is and guarding one’s heart, can go unheeded.

Father, do what’s necessary to keep me teachable.

MAY FIVE

Read Proverbs Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+5&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 15-19 These verses speak of fidelity in marriage. “Rejoice in the wife of your youth” means a not-to-be-broken commitment to love, cherish, forgive, and laugh with each other through good times and bad, through illness and aging, etc. It takes work, but it is worth it. Vss. 16,17 address the effect on children when parents are unfaithful. How many children are sad because they are being raised as “the children of strangers” (vs. 17 Ampl.).

O God, may we as adults abandon selfishness so that we might be a blessing to our spouses and our children

MAY SIX

Read Proverbs Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+6&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 1-3 Proverbs warns often against being surety (guaranteeing payment of another’s debts if he doesn’t). At the time this was written, if your friend defaulted you could stand to lose your money, land, clothing, and even your freedom. You would become a slave to your friend’s creditor. In our day, we would not only risk financial loss, we could also be part of a process that enables our friend to continue in destructive spending habits.

O God, give us Your wisdom and discernment of how and when to be generous in our goods and our time while not enabling someone else to continue in destructive habits.

MAY SEVEN

Read Proverbs Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+7&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 1-4 God’s Word is not to be handled lightly. We are to KEEP His word and commandments (= keep watch, guard, keep safe, preserve, retain). We are to LAY UP His commandments (=hide for use when needed, treasure). They are the apple (pupil) of the eye (reflecting God’s image?) We are to have a close, intimate relationship with wisdom and understanding-- like a sister or “an intimate friend” (Ampl.).

O God, how lightly I treat the treasure You have given me!

MAY EIGHT

Read Proverbs Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+8&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Shall we get over being naïve? Do we lack commonsense? Are we frequently regretting foolish things we do? God’s Word is more valuable than silver, gold, or rubies. The beginning of wisdom is fearing the Lord; the first indicator we’re fearing the Lord is hating evil. Have we an evil we need to bid farewell once and for all? Fools think God ignores our willful sinning.

Father, shape my heart to desire Your holiness.

MAY NINE

Read Proverbs Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+9&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Have you ever received an elegant invitation to a phenomenal dwelling or event? Nearly every elegant house I’ve entered required that I first purchase a ticket. I’ve only seen “real” servants in old movies. “Wisdom’s” servants invite us to the great banquet in the spacious seven-pillared house. We can participate if we will forsake foolishness. The old brash “Folly” is also calling for simple-minded guests.

Father, may “Wisdom”/Jesus Christ direct my steps and thoughts today.

MAY TEN

Read Proverbs Ten

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+10&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 17: According to the Amplified translation, the person who heeds instruction is not only on the way of life for himself but can lead others to the way of life as well. Similarly, those who refuse reproof go astray not only for themselves but may lead others astray as well. How grateful we can be to those who lived a life of integrity, which benefits we enjoy; how careful we should be of leading others down a path that may take years or a lifetime to correct.

O God, as I thank You for the heritage of those who set me on the right path, preserve me from being one who would lead others astray.

MAY ELEVEN

Read Proverbs Eleven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+11&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 27 Good news: If you seek it, you will find it! If you seek after that which is beneficial to your neighbor or after God, you will find it/Him; BUT, Bad news: if you seek after evil, you will find evil and you will also reap its consequences. How many times do people go after that which is evil but expect good results?!

O God, thank You again for your warnings and the directions for “the way to life.”

MAY TWELVE

Read Proverbs Twelve

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+12&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Parents can detect sarcasm and anger. Mine forbid us calling anyone “Stupid.” After reading Matthew 5:22, I deleted “Fool,” too. Perfect God uses those terms because He offers solutions for “stupid fools.” They can avoid living a wasted life. By contrast, the righteous refresh the world. They have roots, speak eternal truths, and bear beneficial fruits. Fools persist by choice; the righteous rely upon God’s counsel.

Father, root me in Truth to bear good fruit.

MAY THIRTEEN

Read Proverbs Thirteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+13&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: A righteous man is not pretentious, setting him apart from the poor who pretend to be rich and the rich who pretend to be poor. The righteous hate falsehoods. Wealth comes to those receiving instruction and lasts longer if it’s been worked for without deceit or ease. “Good” men are to leave an inheritance for grandchildren; hopefully recipients will be wise so it’s not wasted.

Father, may financial recipients remember every good thing is Yours.

MAY FOURTEEN

Read Proverbs Fourteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+14&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Verse 9 says, “Fools make fun of guilt, but the godly acknowledge it and seek reconciliation.” Today, people try to strip guilt of its “good.” “I’m sorry,” is to be part of my vocabulary with friends, family, and especially with God. My sinfulness helped cause the death of Jesus. That’s humbling, but true. That acknowledgement began my relationship with Jesus Christ.

Father, Thank You for convicting me of my sinfulness, and loving me anyway.

MAY FIFTEEN

Read Proverbs Fifteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+15&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 5, 10, 12, 31, 32: Two kinds of people are mentioned in these verses - those who despise correction, rebuke or instruction and those who learn from them. The result for the despisers is that they are fools, they avoid wise people,(physical, moral, and spiritual) death, and despising of self. Those who heed instruction/rebuke are prudent, are comfortable with wise people, and acquire understanding.

O God, make me wise enough to learn from whatever correction you might bring my way.

MAY SIXTEEN

Read Proverbs Sixteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+16&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 3 begins “roll” or “commit” your works to the Lord. This means burdens we carry as well as our plans or anxieties for the future. When we do that our thoughts or our plans will succeed or prosper. The Amplified version puts these two together: “Roll your works upon the Lord [commit and trust them wholly to Him; He will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will, and] so shall your plans be established and succeed.”

O God, Whose thoughts are higher than our thoughts and Whose ways are higher than our ways, let me bring my burdens and my plans to You at the first rather than as an after-thought.

MAY SEVENTEEN

Read Proverbs Seventeen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+17&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: There’s no returning water to a faucet once the faucet is turned on. So it is with strife -- stop it before it gets started. Some ways to do this are: forgiveness, being a person who is there for others during times of difficulty, cheerfulness, calmness, and having careful use of words.

“Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.”

(Psalm 19:14)

MAY EIGHTEEN

Read Proverbs Eighteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+18&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: In vs. 10: “the name of the Lord” = the character and attributes of God, all that He is. How do we run to Him? By faith, prayer, submission, as a first thought, not an afterthought. I had the image of how I/we often handle stress, trials, attacks, etc. It was the image of someone standing outside the tower trying to do battle on his own. God IS our refuge and strength and very present help in trouble (Ps. 46:1). There is NO OTHER NAME by which we can be saved (Acts 4:12).

O God, forgive me for trying to do battle outside the tower or for running to you as an afterthought and not as first defense.

MAY NINETEEN

Read Proverbs Nineteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+19&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Why do we blame the Lord when our feet take us where our heart intended? Sometimes people fail to see the insincerity of others, thinking their attention has nothing to do with the “financial” help they can give them. Are we sometimes insincere, choosing to befriend someone because they can “benefit” us without our also benefitting them? Solomon states man desires loyalty and he says satisfaction with life becomes ours when we fear the Lord.

Father, thank You for blessing me with loving relationships; help me be the friend You call me to be, to my family, to my friends, and to You.

MAY TWENTY

Read Proverbs Twenty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+20&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “Wine produces mockers; liquor leads to brawls. Whoever is led astray by drink cannot be wise” (vs.1). 88,000 die annually from too much alcohol; over 2 million “years” are lost through alcohol’s deaths; and the negative financial impact is over $2 billion annually (CDC, 2013). Broken bodies, broken cars, broken homes, broken promises to people who “used to matter.” Any excesses can derail us.

Lord, overpower our desires for excesses through deeper fellowship with You.

MAY TWENTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Twenty-One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+21&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 21: How often do we pursue righteousness (a right standing with God) and mercy (compassionate love towards others)? With such rich blessings that come from that pursuit (v.21b), other things we strive after pale in comparison.

O God, show me how I might pursue a right relationship with You and a compassionate service to others.

MAY TWENTY-TWO

Read Proverbs Twenty-Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+22&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs.5: The hymn, written by Isaac Newton, says, “Through many dangers, toils and snares, we have already come…” How many of these “dangers and snares” came about because we did not “guard” ourselves from temptation, evil, or even just bad choices?

O God, I see here in Proverbs the richness of the weapons You give us for guarding our souls and avoiding snares. Thank You.

MAY TWENTY-THREE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+23&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Envy is not the reason to work, for even the delicacies of the rich are deceptive. The object of work is not wealth. We spend our earth time learning to “fear,” to honor the Lord, to fulfill His purposes for us. While instructing about work, Solomon warns against the predictable consequences of too much wine. Better than the world’s applause for “success,” is our reverence for the Lord.

Use my life, Lord, for Your glory.

MAY TWENTY-FOUR

Read Proverbs Twenty-Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+24&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Solomon claims where wealth is possible, poverty corresponds to effort. Tragically, some people are dying without access to protection, to water, to food, to employment. Disease and disadvantage break bodies. The truly poor deserve help. However, Solomon warns our “fields” reveal to onlookers how much we love sleep, slumber, and stilled hands, and he wants the discouraged to find strength to face adversity. He praises, again, wisdom’s advantages.

Father, help me keep learning from You.

MAY TWENTY-FIVE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+25&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 21, 22: God thinks these verses and their theme are important! First, here in Proverbs; then Jesus tells us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matt. 5:44,45); then Paul repeats this proverb in Romans 12:20. Why so much emphasis? Maybe it is because it expresses the attitude of God toward us: “while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom. 5:8), “while we were enemies...” (Rom. 5:10).

O God, may I have Your mind, Your heart, Your eyes to respond to people even as You responded to me.

MAY TWENTY-SIX

Read Proverbs Twenty-Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+26&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 7-9: We have read many Proverbs. What are we going to do with what we have learned? God’s wisdom is worthless when not put to its intended use (vs.7); be doers of the word and not hearers only! (James 1:22) Being awarded for knowing many scriptures without doing them is also a waste (vs.8). In fact, it could be said that we are fools if our hearts are pricked with wisdom and we never feel it enough to apply it. (vs.9)

O God, may I not be a fool, who hears the word but does not do it, but may I be one who applies this wisdom and so is wise. (Matt. 7:24-27)

MAY TWENTY-SEVEN

Read Proverbs Twenty-Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+27&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs.7: I see two kinds of people here. The first are those who have experienced so many blessings that they forget God as the Giver and even credit themselves as the giver (Deut. 6:10-12). The second are those who are so desperate for meaning, purpose, joy, and peace in their lives that they settle for destructive habits and relationships though these eventually bring bitter results.

O God, thank You that all good and perfect gifts come from You, according to Your wisdom and in Your timing.

MAY TWENTY-EIGHT

Read Proverbs Twenty-Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+28&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 14 says: “Blessed is the man who always fears the Lord.” (NIV) “Blessed are those who have a tender conscience.” (NLT) “Blessed (happy, fortunate, and to be envied) is the man who reverently and worshipfully fears [the Lord] at all times [regardless of circumstances]” (Ampl.). Hardening one’s heart results in “calamity” (Ampl.), “trouble” (NIV), “serious trouble” (NLT).

O God, may I learn to have an attitude of continual, worshipful reverence of You that I might be thus “happy and blessed” and avoid “calamity” and “serious trouble.”

MAY TWENTY-NINE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+29&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 10, 27 “No one can please everyone.” This chapter makes that clear. If a person chooses to please God and walk in His ways, then some people will hate him (vs.10) or detest him (Vs.27). Jesus warned, “If the world hates you, you know it has hated Me before it hated you.” (Jn. 15:18) Jesus says, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” Matt. 5:44.

O God, again, may I seek Your favor and pray for my enemies.

MAY THIRTY

Read Proverbs Thirty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+30&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Agar realizes life’s “why’s” are mysteries, even for us seeking wisdom (vs. 3). When my questions about who dies when, barrenness, or the consequences of weather or other devastations leave me speechless, let me begin to exercise wisdom by realizing God is God, His word is true, His ways sometimes mysterious, but always His wisdom surpasses mine.

O, Sovereign Father, replace my “whys” with deeper trust in You and increasing confidence in Your gracious love.

MAY THIRTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Thirty-One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+31&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Mother’s Day was celebrated in the USA earlier this month. Our action checklist as women might well be put alongside that of the “Proverbs 31” woman, though some point out she carried out these tasks over time. Women are capable creatures gifted by God, and we are without excuse for not fulfilling His purposes in our lives. Sometimes, admittedly, someone “squashes” our opportunities, but God knows our hearts.

Father, may women fulfill Your designated purposes.

JUNE

We’re almost at the half way mark this year. We have friends who set goals in January and the family re-evaluates them in June. Are we becoming whom we wanted to become this year?

Who or what needs attention in June?

JUNE ONE

Read Proverbs One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+1&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: I remember hearing illustrations about Proverbs 1, verse 10: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not.” How willing are we to “consent thou not”? In the New Testament (1 Corinthians 10:13), we have two truths about every temptation we face: 1) Others have faced the same temptation, and 2) God always provides a way to escape temptation. When we sin, we sin intentionally. How embarrassing.

Father, Help me use the escapes You provide.

JUNE TWO

Read Proverbs Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+2&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: How casually we often treat a desire to know God. This proverb, however, bids us to receive God’s Word, treasure His commands within us, and to seek and search after His wisdom like we were hunting for hidden treasure. The reward? “Then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.” Can there be anything more worthwhile to pursue!?

O God, forgive me for going after trinkets when I could have had treasure, the treasure of knowing You more intimately.

JUNE THREE

Read Proverbs Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+3&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 1-4: What comes from knowing God’s Word and doing what He says? A life worth living and internal contentment. What comes from practicing mercy (eliminating all hatred and selfishness) and truth (eliminating all deliberate hypocrisy or falsehood)? We will “win favor and a good name” (NIV) in the sight of God and other people.

O God, a life worth living, lasting contentment, and peace with You and other people are worthy goals. May I know and follow Your plan for attaining them.

JUNE FOUR

Read Proverbs Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+4&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 4: If Solomon is the writer, his father David’s instruction to him is “hold fast to my words; keep my commandments and live.” A cross reference to those instructions is 1Chron. 28:9 (Ampl.): “know the God of your father [have personal knowledge of Him, be acquainted with and understand Him; appreciate, heed and cherish Him] and serve Him with a blameless heart and a willing mind...” Can there be any more worthwhile pursuit in life than this?!

O God, that I might have the desire to fulfill this commandment!

JUNE FIVE

Read Proverbs Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+5&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: God created and blessed physical intimacy between a husband and wife. Solomon warns his son against promiscuity, advising him that some women eagerly entice and entrap men with their “sweet” words. Those women are more lifeless than they realize as they destroy their partners’ lives. Solomon could not heed his advice, perhaps speaking from his failures.

Father, You wanted married couples to experience loving intimacy, but humankind has challenged Your wisdom; unleash Your truth today.

JUNE SIX

Read Proverbs Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+6&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Most of us have spoken without contemplating the end result of our words. Solomon urges us quickly, humbly to seek release from foolish agreements. Pride, sometimes displayed as fear, gets us into foolish agreements, and can keep us from taking steps to get out of them. Humility is underrated. Later Solomon says God is horrified by a “proud look.” Wouldn’t pride cause that “proud look”?

Gracious God, help us realize sins’ barest bones are pride.

JUNE SEVEN

Read Proverbs Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+7&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: I can’t help but wonder how many marriages would still be intact if “sons” listened to the advice Solomon offers in this chapter. Solomon says the immoral man looking for the immoral woman will reap disaster. The man follows the harlot like an ox to slaughter, a stag awaiting the arrow, a bird into a net.

Father, tonight I pray for homes, especially for children in homes, where unfaithfulness has broken vows and hearts.

JUNE EIGHT

Read Proverbs Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+8&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Imagine world news if national and international leaders began their day pursuing God’s wisdom! NLT version describes Wisdom standing on the hill, waving for our attention, warning people to avoid the inevitable destruction that comes when pursuit of the Lord is forsaken. God is Wisdom. Wisdom provides life’s “Warning, Bridge Out Ahead” sign. People who love the Lord hate evil.

Lord, cleanse us, and our world’s leaders, of pride, arrogance, greed, falsehoods, corruption and perverted speech.

JUNE NINE

Read Proverbs Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+9&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 12 (NLT) “If you become wise, you will be the one to benefit. If you scorn wisdom, you will be the one to suffer.” God has given us the freedom of choice, to choose His way or our way. He lays out the consequences of each. Why, then, do we blame Him when our choice leads to Hell on earth or for eternity?

God, thank You for loving us enough to spell out the consequences of our choices. Forgive us for blaming You when we reap what we have sown.

JUNE TEN

Read Proverbs Ten

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+10&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “The memory of the righteous is a blessing.” According to this proverb, much of what the righteous will be remembered for is from what they say. Their words are a well of life, precious like silver, feed and guide many, and bring forth skillful and godly wisdom. Being a “memorable person,” then, means to be rightly related to God where even our speech is guided by Him.

O God, again, “may the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer” (Ps. 19:14).

JUNE ELEVEN

Read Proverbs Eleven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+11&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “Cheater!” No, not said of us! Working unfair deals are an abomination. Righteousness delights the Lord. Integrity guides throughout life, benefitting those nearby. How will the upright’s reputation withstand inevitable attacks? Prepare. Let God saturate our minds with Christ’s teachings; commit our keeping to Him (1 Peter 4). God’s blood-bought children are aliens here. “Home” is heaven. Christ-instilled righteousness is God’s blessing, but living righteously becomes our assignment.

Father, may Your Spirit overrule “me” today.

JUNE TWELVE

Read Proverbs Twelve

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+12&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 1, 15: Proverbs 3 warns about “being wise in our own eyes.” In Proverbs 12 we are warned against thinking so highly of ourselves that we don’t accept correction or counsel. Thus, to really have knowledge and wisdom is to accept suggestions or even corrections from others who either see our faults or have a clearer picture of a situation.

O God, preserve me from being a “know-it-all;” help me also to see when true correction is spoken, even by my enemies.

JUNE THIRTEEN

Read Proverbs Thirteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+13&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 8 says, “The ransom of a man’s life are his riches…” (KJV). In Matthew 20:28, we read that Jesus came …to give his life a ransom for many. Am I part of the riches Jesus would claim? Have I humbly entered into God’s family via asking that Jesus’s ransom – His blood for my sinfulness – “buy”/redeem me from sin’s penalty? How can I help others claim their ransom from hell?

Father, may my life glorify You and may I be used to help others celebrate redemption through Jesus Christ alone.

JUNE FOURTEEN

Read Proverbs Fourteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+14&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Fools, in scripture are people who are rebellious against God. Do any of these characteristics of fools/foolishness in this proverb fit us: “household destroyer,” prideful talk, absence of knowledge, deceit, mockery of sin, hotheaded, reckless, quick-tempered, and foolish. Some also describe the fool as one who “acts without counsel, and does what he does only because he has a mind to do it.”

O God, keep me even from moments of being the fool in temper and unwillingness to listen to You or others.

JUNE FIFTEEN

Read Proverbs Fifteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+15&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “The wise person makes learning a joy” (NLT, verse 2). Are we walking joyfully through lessons God is teaching us, even when the lessons are difficult to understand from where we sit? God tailors our lessons just for the circumstances we experience. Study Him with joyful anticipation. And, if we’re teachers of others, let’s make the learning a joy for our students.

Father, may I learn from You and model Your Son when I teach.

JUNE SIXTEEN

Read Proverbs Sixteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+16&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Isn’t it both comforting and convicting to realize God examines our motives (vs. 2) and that the Lord has made everything for a purpose (vs. 4)? Life doesn’t haphazardly unfold for us. Our times of being “poor” have lessons we cannot otherwise learn, but pride is consistently the destructive characteristic that negates the benefits wisdom offers in our varied circumstances.

Lord, we’re 100% guaranteed to mess up if we refuse to let You chart life.

JUNE SEVENTEEN

Read Proverbs Seventeen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+17&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: For healthier family, friend or business relationships, consider Proverbs 17. Wise people choose words carefully, knowing words settle into hearts and affect relationships. Family dynamics that result in joy are when parents have instructed their children to avoid foolishness, children are proud of their parents, siblings help each other, and grandparents boast about grandchildren. Fathers grieve over rebellious children. Mothers of fools become embittered.

Father, may Your wisdom and grace heal broken hearts and families

JUNE EIGHTEEN

Read Proverbs Eighteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+18&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: The mouth of a fool is eventually exposed, but sometimes not until after damage has been done to himself and/or to others. This chapter, in verses 2, 14, and 15, warns against speaking before having understanding, but a most haunting truth is in verse 21: Death and life are in the power of the tongue.

Benevolent Father, You made us capable of thinking, of understanding, and of communicating; grant us wisdom in using Your gifts.

JUNE NINETEEN

Read Proverbs Nineteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+19&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 1, 17. The first verse stresses the importance of maintaining integrity, even if the integrity makes us become, or leaves us, “poor.” Verse 17 reminds us that when we demonstrate pity for the poor, we are lending to the Lord. We cannot out-give God. Many poor in this world endure hardships imposed upon them by lack of opportunity, war, unfairness, persecution, and poor judgment.

May our offerings bless others in Jesus’s name.

JUNE TWENTY

Read Proverbs Twenty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+20&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 25: Vows - marriage vows, vows to God (“if You help me out of ... I will...”), vows/promises to God to give of our lives or our goods, vows/promises to friends (“You can depend on me for...,” “I’ll pray for you...”). How many of these vows and promises do we do without counting the cost or the sacredness of a promise before God or even before another person.? “It is a snare to a man to utter a vow [of consecration] rashly and [not until] afterward inquire [whether he can fulfill it]” (Ampl).

O God, help me to be a person of my word, whether it is to You or someone else.

JUNE TWENTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Twenty-One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+21&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Amazing promise for those suffering under an unfair leader: The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will! (KJV) Why? Because, verse two, humankind tends to think our way of doing things is “right.” Thankfully, God weighs hearts and bring justice, either now or later. We can’t fool God with a sacrifice.

Father, wake up leaders; humble them to realize they’re accountable to You.

JUNE TWENTY-TWO

Read Proverbs Twenty-Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+22&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Why read Proverbs each day? Proverbs provides ancient counsel, much from “the wisest man who ever lived.” After sixteen verses of counsel, we’re next told to apply what we’ve heard deep within our hearts so we learn about trusting the Lord. Quick tips include not befriending an angry person, not co-signing loans, not buying on credit, not changing property lines, and becoming a faithful worker.

Defender of the poor, help us apply truths to life.

JUNE TWENTY-THREE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+23&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 10 “Do not move the ancient landmark or go into the fields of the fatherless...” Moving a landmark was considered stealing land, here, against the defenseless. Vs. 11 reminds us that the defenseless have a Redeemer. I know there are times when I feel like the boundaries are being moved, especially the cornerstones of our faith and the foundations of our country. I feel defenseless. But, praise the Lord, “I know that my Redeemer lives, and at last He will take His stand on the earth...” (Job 19:25).

O God, even as You are the Defender of the defenseless, embolden me also to speak for those who have no voice. Thank You that You are the living, coming-again Redeemer.

JUNE TWENTY-FOUR

Read Proverbs Twenty-Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+24&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Verses 10-12 and 24-25 urge we not look away from evil, pretending evils like abortion, abuse, and human trafficking are nonexistent. Our taxes funnel into coffers exterminating the unborn and teaching immorality as good. God weighs why I/we don’t rigorously protect the weak who, like us, are created in God’s image. He blesses those who rebuke wickedness and deplores excusing evil.

Father, release afresh our compassion for the weak and guide us to assist them.

JUNE TWENTY-FIVE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+25&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 4 says (Ampl.) “Take away the dross..., and there shall come forth [the material for] a vessel for the silversmith [to work up].” 2Tim. 2:21 refers to our becoming “vessels for honor...useful to the Master.” Some of the “dross” in our lives might be the things to “put to death” and “to put off” in Colossians 3. The vessel that God, the Silversmith, would produce could be characterized by the “put on” commands of Colossians 3 and the fruit of the Spirit of Galatians 5.

O God, You are the Silversmith; take away the “dross” that I might become “a vessel of honor...useful to the Master.”

JUNE TWENTY-SIX

Read Proverbs Twenty-Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+26&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs.23: From scripture I see that earthen vessels can be good or bad, plain or valuable. Here, “dross” or silver refuse, while trying to appear genuine, only masks over the effects of a wicked heart. However, the apostle Paul tells us that we have “this treasure (the gospel) in earthen vessels (our mortal bodies)” (2Cor. 4:7).

O God, may I, though an earthen vessel, be “the real deal,” a vessel of honor, useful to You (2Tim. 2:21).

JUNE TWENTY-SEVEN

Read Proverbs Twenty-Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+27&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Solomon offers several scales to weigh the anchor that inwardly stabilizes me. Discontentment influences my judgment and decisions. Perfect peace reliably aligns my obedience to the known will of God, but contentment can be skewed by my selfish, even evil, desires, especially my desire to hear praise.

Lord, make me wary of what coaxes me to make changes, especially if You called me to an obligation. Let me see my heart as You see it.

JUNE TWENTY-EIGHT

Read Proverbs Twenty-Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+28&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Lives dedicated to the Lord are to be lived boldly and bring stability to their homes and communities. The “success” of the godly will benefit many who will see that trusting the Lord leads to prosperity, though the prosperity may not be evident in a bank account. Becoming “Godly” happens only after we confess our sins and obtain a tender conscience that assists the poor and does not show partiality.

Direct my life, O Lord.

JUNE TWENTY-NINE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+29&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Dad observed a father who constantly harangued his children and figured the children would either rebel or become discouraged (vs.1). Dad saved our spankings for big issues, so even in our happy home we occasionally experienced verses 15 & 17 to help us become responsible adults. Disregarding a first warning rightfully resulted in some consequence. Good parents realize the difference between defiance and normal childish behavior.

Father, help me respond quickly when You instruct me.

JUNE THIRTY

Read Proverbs Thirty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+30&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Agar says he is stupid, lacking understanding, and lacking wisdom. These deficiencies flow out of another one - lack of knowledge of God. Who is in charge of creation? What is His name? What is His Son’s name? Knowledge of God is also tied to his wealth - too much and I deny God, too little and I profane God.

O God, like Agar, make me zealous to know You and have every area of my life reflect my relationship with You

JULY

Does your life sparkle, showering upon others like the fascinating beauty and wonder of fireworks with the goodness God instills in you? Has someone been neglected who needs to experience how good you can be this month?

Who and what needs attention in July?

JULY ONE

Read Proverbs One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+1&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: This proverb emphasizes many verbs. Wisdom is quite active: She calls aloud, raises her voice, cries out, stretches out her hand. To those who follow her she: pours out her spirit and makes her words known. To those who refuse her she: will laugh at their calamity, mock them when terror comes, and will not answer. How precious is her promise to those who heed her: “... whoever listens to me will dwell safely, and will be secure, without fear of evil.”

Again, O Lord, I thank You for being the One who pursues us; may I ever know the fear of the Lord that is the beginning of wisdom.

JULY TWO

Read Proverbs Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+2&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: If someone offered me the exclusive map and perfect key to access treasure that I could not outlive, and assured me the treasure was legitimately mine because my father willed it to me, would I not go after it? God promises me my study of His Word will be worth more than earthly treasures that may distract me. He lovingly, boldly, warns against evil entrapments that mimic fulfillment.

O Father, coach me as Your child.

JULY THREE

Read Proverbs Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+3&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 5, 6: Words in these verses communicate action. “Trust” = place our hope or confidence in; “with all your heart” = concentrating our whole inner life on the personhood of God and obedience to Him; “lean” = to lean with our whole body in order to rest on something, rely on, trust in. Here we are called to rest and rely on God’s leading rather than our own insight. “Acknowledge” = engaging our whole selves in a desire to know (God); “direct” = direct in the right way.

O God, I see that I need to give more than a casual nod to wanting to know Your will; in fact, I need to “put my whole self into it.”

JULY FOUR

Read Proverbs Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+4&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Humankind needs intergenerational truths to survive. King David apparently instructed Solomon to pursue wisdom, and King Solomon passes that instruction to his children, and to us. Some knowledge is pointless. Wisdom is priceless. One truth in Proverbs 4 is the instruction to let wisdom reign in my heart. My daily thinking, speaking, doing, reveals what’s in my heart.

O, Lord, protect my heart from all forms of wickedness so I may live to glorify You.

JULY FIVE

Read Proverbs Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+5&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 2b: “... and your lips preserve knowledge...” This means that we realize that nothing we say is apart from the knowledge of God and, and that what we say under His direction, is good and right. Ps. 17:3b says, “I have resolved that my mouth will not sin” (NIV). We need to remember that godly wisdom and godly understanding is reflected in the things we say as well as the decisions we make.

God, may even my lips preserve Your knowledge, and reflect You to others.

JULY SIX

Read Proverbs Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+6&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: There are times when you and I have to hustle to get out of the predicament we got ourselves into (vss. 1-5). Perhaps if we carefully chose our words, studied the ants efficiently working together with an eye to the future as well as the present, and garnished the good our parents offered, we’d avoid some difficulties. There are seven things that are abominations in the Lord’s eyes, so we want no part in those.

Father, I’m grateful for Your Word and that You expose us to Truths even where Your Word is not yet available.

JULY SEVEN

Read Proverbs Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+7&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Some might seek other interpretations of Proverbs 7’s guts, but it says in paraphrase, to every generation, “Beware. There are females, even wives, who seek sexual partners while their husbands are away.” Some look religious, making sacrifices, then, play the harlot. Good thing this disgusting kind of stuff is written for “them.” Oops, God declares I play the harlot whenever He is not first place in my life.

Faithful Lord, keep me faithful to You.

JULY EIGHT

Read Proverbs Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+8&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Words go out of vogue, abused to change meanings. When we hear “prude,” haven’t we been conditioned to think negatively? However, to have prudence means to have forethought, insight, carefulness, to be far-sighted and practical. But when “hijacked,” the root word loses its appeal. Most would say a prude is a killjoy, a stuffed shirt, a party-pooper. My point? Protect character vocabulary. Prudence is good; prudent people obey God and are wise, and should be sought after at parties and elsewhere.

Father, forgive us for hesitating to apply “brakes” that would help shape culture; remind us we are accountable to You.

JULY NINE

Read Proverbs Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+9&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: God desires individuals come to Him through Jesus Christ, His Holy Son. Once we become His children, God desires to use us so others come to God through Jesus Christ. God’s children are of little use if they spew forth foolishness. In humility, we admit we’re simple. Our “Page one” in learning is “The Fear of the Lord” and we unlock our understanding by reverence and knowledge of the Holy.

Father, in You is Truth.

JULY TEN

Read Proverbs Ten

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+10&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “righteous” = those who are upright and in right standing with God; “wicked”= those who are out of harmony with God. The tongues of the righteous are as choice silver; the heart of the wicked is of little worth. Mixed metaphors? Not really. “But the things that proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and those defile a man” (Matt. 15:18; see also vs. 19). My words are of little worth in God’s eyes if they are not coming from attitudes, motives, and desires that He is molding into my life.

O God, I would hate to think that my words are “of little worth;” make them, “as choice silver” to bless others because they are coming from a heart that You guide.

JULY ELEVEN

Read Proverbs Eleven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+11&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 4, 6, 8, 9, 21: These verses promise God’s deliverance for the righteous. God promises deliverance from death, trouble, slanders by a neighbor, and punishment. I discovered that He has several ways He “delivers.” In vss. 4, 6 it means to pluck out, implying exertion on His part; in vss. 8 and 9, it is a rescuing or deliverance by a gentle hand; in vs. 21 it is to rescue from danger by a slipping away from a trouble or difficulty.

O God, as You are multi-faceted in character, so You are multi-faceted in the ways You deliver those who seek You. Remind me that sometimes the sweetest deliverance is coming into Your presence. Thank You for knowing exactly what I need.

JULY TWELVE

Read Proverbs Twelve

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+12&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 3: “Established” means to stand solid. Wickedness (straying from God) cannot do so. However, those who seek right standing with God cannot be uprooted. They are immoveable as mountains; they are like the tree planted by water “whose leaf does not wither” (Ps. 1:3); they are like the house built upon the rock (of Christ’s word) (Matt. 7:24, 25).

O God, may my focus ever be: “On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand.” (Words are from Edward Mote’s “My Hope is Built on Nothing Less,” hymn, written in 1834).

JULY THIRTEEN

Read Proverbs Thirteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+13&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 7 The Amplified version of this verse describes the one who is rich here “yet having nothing to keep permanently.” It describes the poor as “having great and indestructible riches.” The apostle Paul, in 2 Cor. 6, talks about his beatings, imprisonments, tribulations, distresses... “as sorrowing, yet always fully rejoicing; ...as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.” Our Christian brothers and sisters in other countries exemplify this as well.

O God, may I not be content in possessions, but be rich toward You (Lk. 12:21).

JULY FOURTEEN

Read Proverbs Fourteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+14&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Isn’t it a bit horrifying to see that if we deliberately pursue unrighteousness, choosing to contradict God’s holy purpose for our lives, then in God’s eyes, we despise God? In verse two, the Truth is obvious; either we fear/revere the Lord enough to follow His counsel, especially as set out in God’s Word, or we do our own thing as an affront to Him.

Father, I’m sorry I despised You when I …. Cleanse me.

JULY FIFTEEN

Read Proverbs Fifteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+15&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “Watch your mouth!” is part of this proverb. God-pleasing speech: gives soft answers in the midst of anger, uses knowledge rightly, is a tree of life, imparts joy, is timely, thinks before speaking, encourages, and utters prayers that delight the Lord.

“Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord, and keep watch over the door of my lips” (Psalm 141:3).

JULY SIXTEEN

Read Proverbs Sixteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+16&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs.6: This verse reminded me of Micah 6:8 and 1Pet. 4:8. Our sin is cleansed only by the shed blood of Jesus. He also wants us to be involved in acts of love and mercy, as a way of “working out our salvation” once we have it through Christ. He desires love and mercy toward others as one way to demonstrate our love for Him and as a way of avoiding evil.

O God, may we never be so “religious” in our rituals that we neglect our love to You and our service to others.

JULY SEVENTEEN

Read Proverbs Seventeen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+17&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: My memory bank stemming from my parents’ home has few “hot meals” validating verse one: “A dry crust eaten in peace is better than a great feast with strife.” Fifty-plus years later, I easily “re-feel” about only one uncomfortable silence enveloping us following one startling exchange. My parents loved each other and us, but strife adheres to memory banks.

Father, may I choose wise, and few, words as I let Your love spread from me to others.

JULY EIGHTEEN

Read Proverbs Eighteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+18&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: We’re fools to not let others get a word in edgewise, or if we give advice before understanding the “backstory.” An “exchange” can be evidence of a loving, respectful relationship. Words can nourish us, or deprive us, from our infancy forward. When we meet people today, we can be a source of encouragement to them, or we can send them deeper into despair.

Father, You foreknow my words; prevent my mouth from uttering anything that would not be destructive.

JULY NINETEEN

Read Proverbs Nineteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+19&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Didn’t my children’s rumpled ABC Proverbs booklet read: E…Enthusiasm without knowledge is not good and impatience will get you into trouble? I love enthusiasm! Enthusiasm can be addicting. I can take on good projects God never assigned me. Other times I’m in a predicament because I hurried or failed to plan carefully enough.

Lord, You know I can want assignments finished before You start them; harness my pace to fit Your plans for my life.

JULY TWENTY

Read Proverbs Twenty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+20&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “Though good advice lies deep within a person’s heart, the wise will draw it out” (vs. 5). James 1:19 tells us, “Be quick to listen, slow to speak…” God plants people around us who have wisdom to share if we’ll take time to “draw it out.” Some may be older than us, some younger, but Proverbs counsels us to willingly take good advice.

Father, You planned for Your children to learn truths and wisdom from one another.

JULY TWENTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Twenty-One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+21&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Strategy to Live in Poverty: Take all the shortcuts; don’t plan ahead; lie about your products or intention; ignore others’ needs; spend everything on pleasure, wine, and luxury; spend whatever you earn or acquire as soon as you get it; refuse to use your hands as you work, in fact, refuse to work; be greedy. Why waste budget information on those walking with determination to live in poverty?

Father, whether giving or serving, help me live wisely.

JULY TWENTY-TWO

Read Proverbs Twenty-Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+22&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: It’s comforting to know God values our reputation more than our riches. Children need to know that living honorably is better than living wealthy. God makes both the rich and the poor. Lest anyone slack off, though, Solomon warns against letting laziness and fear keep us from work. He also declares God knows who takes advantage of others and will bring justice.

Lord, may my ambition bring You glory and my resources help others.

JULY TWENTY-THREE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+23&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “Don’t weary yourself trying to get rich. Why waste your time? …riches can disappear…” (verse 4, 5). Do we remember that advice for ourselves, and/or when we inquire about plans a young person is making? Let’s think on what will be of value in the Lord’s eyes as we fulfill His story on earth through us and our children.

Assembler of Me, You detailed my life before I began; let the gift of this day glorify You.

JULY TWENTY-FOUR

Read Proverbs Twenty-Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+24&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 3, 4: How do we build our lives? “Get wisdom...get understanding” (Pr. 4:7). Christ is the Builder and the foundation. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” Christ is “the wisdom of God” (1 Cor. 1:24), the One “in whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Col. 2:3), and the One in whom we are “being built up in Him and established in the faith” (Col. 2:7). Christ is the architect, builder, foundation, materials, and furnishing of the best kind of life possible.

Forgive us, O God, when we go after other shoddy materials and workmen to build our lives.

JULY TWENTY-FIVE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+25&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 26: When a noted Christian is caught in sin, or a Christian compromises such that he is no different than a non-Christian, it is a sad event. More than sad, the cause of Christ suffers as well. Rom. 2:24 says, “The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.” Proverbs says that instead of being like life giving water, we become like a muddied fountain or a polluted stream.

O God, this is a sad verse. Protect me from being a “polluted stream.”

JULY TWENTY-SIX

Read Proverbs Twenty-Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+26&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: We sometimes honor those whose work or words don’t meet God’s standards for good and worthy. Honoring fools is as out of place in God’s eyes as snow is in summer, or as foolish as tying the stone into the slingshot. We should ignore foolish statements unless we are equipped to debunk the foolish reasoning so we can help a fool get understanding.

Father, help me see true goodness and give honor as You do.

JULY TWENTY-SEVEN

Read Proverbs Twenty-Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+27&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: With much advice, Solomon counsels in practical wisdom. Boasting about what I will do, or praises about what I’ve done--neither are mine to announce. Sensible eating comes with being “satisfied” but not in being “stuffed” or “starving.” Paying attention to avoid calamity is wise, including taking proper care of animals or other belongings so that we may have sufficient supply in our later years.

Lord, not all I want today will be beneficial tomorrow.

JULY TWENTY-EIGHT

Read Proverbs Twenty-Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+28&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 2 (NLT): “When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily. But with wise and knowledgeable leaders, there is stability.” When you couple this with the many proverbs that tell a ruler to trust the Lord and to keep His word, this impresses on us the urgency to pray for our leaders to be godly and to seek the Lord.

O God, are we at the “toppling” point? May we and our leaders humbly and urgently seek You.

JULY TWENTY-NINE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+29&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: For rulers and others, in Proverbs 29, Solomon’s “Do Not” list includes: Take bribes, Ignore the poor, Behave scornfully, Listen to lies, Be bloodthirsty, Deal unjustly, Fail to cast visions, React angrily, Fear man more than God, Expect the favor of the wicked.

Father, we pray for Your rule in the hearts of local, state, national, and international leaders so Your Word and work go forth unhindered by Your servants carrying Truth to the lost.

JULY THIRTY

Read Proverbs Thirty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+30&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 18-19: Are there not also other things “too wonderful for me,... that I do not understand?” -- Creation (Job 38,39); what caused Jesus to leave heaven for us (Phil. 2:5-8); the selfless love that did not wait until we were “good enough” (Rom. 5:8); and the long-suffering patience God has towards us, not wanting that any should perish (Ps. 103:10-14, 2 Peter 3:9)?

O God, when I consider these wonders, though they are a small dot compared to all that You share, I can only humbly bow and exclaim with the songwriter, “How Great Thou Art!”

JULY THIRTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Thirty-One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+31&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 26 This woman displays characteristics that both men and women should desire. In vs. 26 “She opens her mouth with wisdom,” expressing in her speech the godly and practical foundation in her heart. Also, “on her tongue is the law of kindness,” i.e., her speech reflects an unselfish attitude, a loving sympathy toward others, and a “zealous affection toward all that is good and truly desirable” (Wilson). Who wouldn’t want to “hang around” with such a person!

O God, once again You give us in scripture godly characteristics that should be true of all who follow You. Develop these in my life as well.

AUGUST

The eighth month, summer’s almost over but it’s too hot for autumn. Some would seek excuses to ease up in everything. We don’t need to be incessantly driven, but we can always glorify God. Perhaps it’s the month to seek a cool place to rejuvenate your relationship with God and perhaps with others.

Who or what needs attention in August?

AUGUST ONE

Read Proverbs One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+1&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Simple. Direct. Then, this: “How long will you go on being simpleminded?” I’m offended. I’ve followed Christ for years. Feeling offended raises questions. What portion of my day do I intentionally expose myself to God’s wisdom, or instead expose myself to foolish “proverbs” and attractive lies so readily available?

O Lord, You can wean me from things unworthy of my attention; increase my hunger for true wisdom.

AUGUST TWO

Read Proverbs Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+2&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 11: When wisdom enters our hearts and knowledge is pleasant to our souls (vs.10) then discretion (the capacity for well-considered action) will protect us; and understanding (the capacity to make the right choice amidst opposing choices) will guard us. We often talk about “putting on the armor of God,” but do we forget about equally important equipment of wisdom and knowledge?

O God, thank You for all of the various pieces of armor You give us; may I not be slothful or over-confident thinking I can do without any of them.

AUGUST THREE

Read Proverbs Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+3&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: (NLT) Who doesn’t want honor and respect? King Solomon urges his son not to neglect good planning and insight. Good planning and insight result in bringing life, honor, and respect. Solomon says his son will consequently be safe, will lie down without fear and will enjoy pleasant dreams. The Lord provides security. We cannot plan with insight unless Biblical truths lodge in our hearts. Our understanding is inadequate.

Lord, instruct and counsel me through Your Word.

AUGUST FOUR

Read Proverbs Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+4&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: I must vigilantly guard my heart, for it captures whatever I expose it to. I may now overrule its urge to speak when I’m overwhelmed with love, anger, jealousy, hatred, compassion, deceitfulness, sympathy, wickedness, fear,  apathy, or any other feeling, but when I do speak I expose only what lies within my heart. Words I’ve heard or read, images, and feelings, lie captured in my heart, waiting to resurface.

Lord, stand guard with me always.

AUGUST FIVE

Read Proverbs Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+5&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: We’ll make costly messes of life if we do not live to glorify the Lord. Solomon discusses human sexuality, but advises finding “exhilaration” within marriage and avoiding sexual behavior apart from marriage. We’re reminded the ways of man are before the eyes of the Lord, that man shall die without good instruction. Death is sin’s wage. Humans “earn” separation from God, but He mercifully offers life through Jesus Christ.

Thank You, Gracious Father, for mercy.

AUGUST SIX

Read Proverbs Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+6&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: How much sleep do I need to put in a productive day? Too much sleep, too much idleness, results in scarcity and poverty. We need never outgrow our usefulness, even if our usefulness is “limited” to tapping into God’s resourcefulness on behalf of others through dedicated prayer time. When our life’s season has us “doing” little, we can be mightily instrumental in “changing” much.

Author of Life, let me see each day as Your gift.

AUGUST SEVEN

Read Proverbs Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+7&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs.14: This woman is “religious.” She has presented a peace offering at the temple. Part of the offering was dedicated to God; another part the priest kept, and a third part she could keep for herself to share with someone else. She chooses to share it with her “co-adulterer.” Like many people today, her “religion” did not influence her everyday life.

O God, may I not be merely “religious” before You but instead be transformed by You.

AUGUST EIGHT

Read Proverbs Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+8&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 6-9 Proverbs 4 urged us to “Get Wisdom, get understanding.” As such, Wisdom would guide us into her own way of speech: excellent things, right things, truth, a loathing of evil, in right standing with God, plain, straight, and never a twisting of the truth.

O God, may I “get wisdom” that my speech may reflect the characteristics of Your Wisdom.

AUGUST NINE

Read Proverbs Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+9&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 4-6: Wisdom invites, not those who “have their act together,” but “the simple” and “those who lack understanding.” Jesus invites “those who are weary and heavy laden” (Matt. 11:28). God says, “Come now...though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow...” (Is. 1:18). How thankful I am that “while we were (are) yet sinners,” simple ones, weak ones, etc., God still takes the initiative and invites us into the wonderful life He has for us (Jn. 6:35).

Lord, thank You for invitations to salvation, life eternal, and abundant life now, that don’t depend on my limitations but on my responding to Your limitlessness.

AUGUST TEN

Read Proverbs Ten

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+10&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Could you create opportunities for some youth to earn a little cash by working for you? Youth benefit by realizing they can control much about their financial future by learning to work. An employer could exhibit principles that “profit” employees throughout the rest of life. Could proof of reading a daily Proverb become an incentive to earn an “optional bonus”?

Lord, when I’m able to invest in young lives, may my wisdom come from You.

AUGUST ELEVEN

Read Proverbs Eleven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+11&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Verse 24 tells us it is possible to go against the methods so prominent in today’s financial counsel and to still have “enough.” Plainly, the NLT states, “It’s possible to give freely and become more wealthy, but those who are stingy will lose everything.” “Heroes” of the past were those who decided early in their careers to tithe; but some who became extremely wealthy were those who increased their tithing percentage. It was as though “God opened the windows of Heaven” in their behalf (See Malachi 3:6-11…if you dare).

Father, uproot all my stinginess because it testifies that I do not trust You as my Provider, but let me disperse with wisdom the provisions You help me secure, and keep me from obligating others to provide for my care.

AUGUST TWELVE

Read Proverbs Twelve

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+12&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Several verses here talk about the use of the tongue. Those who seek after right relationship with God and desire to speak in truth and wisdom can expect that their words bring: deliverance from danger and trouble, good results, a testimony to his righteousness, healing and encouragement to the hearers, and a delight to the Lord.

O God, once again, “may the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer” (Ps. 19:14).

AUGUST THIRTEEN

Read Proverbs Thirteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+13&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 9: The Amplified Bible describes the light of the righteous as a light within him that grows brighter and rejoices. The lamp of the wicked is described as temporary. Jesus said that His followers are “the light of the world” - that others might see our good works and glorify our Father who is in heaven. (Matt. 5:14, 16) Jesus is the light of the world. Whoever follows Him will have the light of life (John 8:12).

O God, as a Christ follower, I have the light of Jesus within me. May I remove those things that block Him from shining through me.

AUGUST FOURTEEN

Read Proverbs Fourteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+14&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “Where no ox is, the crib is clean, but much increase is by the strength of the ox...” A contemporary picture might be a messy desk or a photo of a person whose clothes show he works hard. Work is honorable and earns “rewards.” Being concerned about the wrong things can become a way of life, and appearance is one such thing. Concern about appearance can keep us from genuine work, worship, relationships, and nearly anything else that’s worthwhile.

Father, remind us You see the beauty and ugliness of our “appearances” and our hearts.

AUGUST FIFTEEN

Read Proverbs Fifteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+15&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: How good it would be if every word that we spoke “gentled” the world, offering to hearers beneficial words with truth for all circumstances. Amazing that God would give us “language” so we can minister to those whose paths cross ours. Think of the missteps that would be avoided if good advice was listened to in humility. The next time you and I see someone smiling, or downcast, dare we ask if they are such because of words spoken to them?

Lord, may my words bring truth, refreshment, and joy to those who hear them.

AUGUST SIXTEEN

Read Proverbs Sixteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+16&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: I remember being told to read God’s Word until God stopped me. Verses 1-3 stopped me. God prepares hearts. He prepares mine so I have something another “prepared heart” is ready to hear, and some other “prepared heart” knows what is right for my “prepared heart” to learn/hear. What a relief, and sobering realization, that God always knows motives; sometimes that awareness comforts, sometimes it convicts.

Lord, may my thoughts and actions bring You joy.

AUGUST SEVENTEEN

Read Proverbs Seventeen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+17&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Imagine the setting: a well-laid table but tension among the guests. The resolution, if any? The Lord sees each heart, and Solomon advises: disregarding another’s faults preserves love, confronting a fool is more combative than taking on a mother bear protecting her cubs; beginning a quarrel is like opening a floodgate, a wise person uses few words.

Father, when we are in tense situations, remind us of our own sinfulness and control our tongues and hearts

AUGUST EIGHTEEN

Read Proverbs Eighteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+18&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Watch your mouth! Our words today work either to ruin us or to add joy to life. Words can refresh or start quarrels, give sound counsel or defend the wrong side, offend or satisfy a soul. Our little tongues can nourish or kill life. Solomon advises it’s easier to take a fortified city than repair a relationship with one we’ve offended.

Father, how gracious of You to grant us communication ability; speak through us.

AUGUST NINETEEN

Read Proverbs Nineteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+19&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 23: So many verses echo this one: to keep our hope fixed on the Lord; He will give peace and restful sleep even in the midst of difficulty. “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee...” (Is. 46:3, KJV). “Even to your old age and gray hairs, I am He, I am He who will sustain you...I will sustain you and rescue you” (Is. 46:4, KJV).

O God, thank You for being there with us and for us before our earthly lives, during our lives, and on through eternal life.

AUGUST TWENTY

Read Proverbs Twenty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+20&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 6: We’ve heard, “Actions speak louder than words.” We can speak of our love and loyalty to a friend or to our spouse. The real test, though, is faithfulness over the long haul, in difficult times as well as in good times, in times when we discover how imperfect that friend/spouse is. “A faithful man (woman), who can find?” For all of us, I hope the answer is, “Over here!”

God, thank You for my spouse. Thank You for friends. In both relationships, help me to be a friend/spouse “who sticks closer than a brother.”

AUGUST TWENTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Twenty-One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+21&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Again, we must consider our relationship with the Lord. The Lord knows our hearts (thoughts, attitudes, motives). He is more pleased when we do what is right than with false outward show of devotion. None of our wisdom or plans can prevail against Him. Any deliverance or victory we might have also comes from Him.

O God, it is not a casual thing that You are called Lord. Help me never to forget.

AUGUST TWENTY-TWO

Read Proverbs Twenty-Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+22&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 4: Humility is seeing ourselves as God sees us, both the bad and the good. We are sinners, deserving Hell who have been elevated to sonship through Jesus Christ. Proper humility leads to the fear of the Lord, a grateful, worshipful reverence of Him. Honor in His eyes follows that, as does abundant life, rich in the presence and provisions of the Lord now and in life eternal.

O God, may I bow before You, gratefully accepting both what You give and what You withhold

AUGUST TWENTY-THREE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+23&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 23: “Buy” truth = spare no expense or effort in acquiring truth. “Do not sell” it (truth) = don’t let anything, even promise of riches or honor, sensuality, argument, or anything else, take truth away from you. That also applies to wisdom, instruction, and understanding from God. How little effort we expend to seek God’s wisdom; how easily we accept the falsehoods of the world.

Lord, I pray I will eagerly seek You; may I also be discerning of truth from the lies around me.

AUGUST TWENTY-FOUR

Read Proverbs Twenty-Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+24&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 11-12: History records several events of the slaughter of innocents. Among them are the killing of Christians and the killing of “infidels” by Christians and others; slavery; the Holocaust of WWII, and the killing of infants in the womb by abortion. In how many of these events did/do people, even Christians, remain silent and act as if they did/do not know?

O God, armed with Your power, may I take stands for those who cannot defend themselves.

AUGUST TWENTY-FIVE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+25&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: This chapter parallels other Bible passages. Verses 6 and 7 remind me of Esther’s boldness appearing before the king to spare her nation, and of Jesus’s advice not to seat ourselves too close to the head table because we’ll be embarrassed when asked to move. Verses 21, 22, were part of Jesus’s and Apostle Paul’s advice about the benefits of loving enemies. Again, we’re to speak carefully.

Father, may my words and life bless others.

AUGUST TWENTY-SIX

Read Proverbs Twenty-Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+26&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 2: 1Pet. 3:16 says: “and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame.” We need to have such a right relationship with God that accusations and “curses” from others will not alight but flit away like a wandering sparrow.

O God, may I stay close to You that I might stand rightly before You and that accusations of others might be meaningless.

AUGUST TWENTY-SEVEN

Read Proverbs Twenty-Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+27&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: According to this Proverb, who are our best and true friends? They are the ones who (vs.17) “sharpen” us; they bring out the best in us. This is done sometimes by their honest but loving rebukes that may seem to wound us for a moment (vs. 6); also by wise counsel (vs. 9); and by being “close by” in our time of need (vs. 10).

O God, thank You for such friends, and make me into such a friend.

AUGUST TWENTY-EIGHT

Read Proverbs Twenty-Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+28&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: It’s possible to be rich or poor and be honest, but if we must choose between pursuing wealth or practicing integrity, integrity is the better choice. Even a poor person can “see through” those who think they are always right or who spend time dreaming but not doing. God supplies the needs of those who work to gain wealth and give to the poor, sometimes through His family members.

Lord, help me be the steward honoring You and blessing others.

AUGUST TWENTY-NINE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+29&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: If we could avoid snares and traps, designed to bring us harm, wouldn’t we avoid them? Here are Solomon’s tips. Flattery is a net in disguise. Evil people use snares. Scornful men can snare an entire city. However, fearing man is a snare. If we’re mentally healthy, we’ll avoid being trapped by snares, and we’ll not use snares to bring “artificial” advantages our way.

Father God, You see all hearts and motives; keep me “snare-free.”

AUGUST THIRTY

Read Proverbs Thirty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+30&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: The writer considers himself stupid, ignorant, and lacking in wisdom and understanding, not because he did not have the right “book learning,” but because he did not know God. Jeremiah 9:23-24 tells us that any wisdom, might, or riches, are deficient unless we know God. To know God is to know His name; to know God is to know His Son and His Son’s name, which is to have an intimate, personal, ongoing relationship with God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.

O God. thank You that even though You know all about me, you still want me to know You better than anyone else.

AUGUST THIRTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Thirty-One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+31&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Two major subjects are the Proverbs 31 focus. The first verses warn against the misuse of wine and strong drink because these hinder good judgment and cause one, regardless of status, to forsake responsibilities. The remaining verses highlight the characteristics of wives and mothers worthy of praise: she helps her husband, rises early to feed her family, secures necessities by hard work and her words are kind and wise.

Thank You, Father, for godly examples.

SEPTEMBER

If we compare the year to our lives, we’ve passed the spring and summer, and now we settle into the autumn of life. For some, the latter years are the most fulfilling. Reality about what’s worth pursuing in the time we have left, and what’s unlikely to happen, start to settle in so we can finish honorably. We ought never wish to leave our earthly assignment early since God is to determine the days we live, but we ought to live each of our days so we’re ready to meet the Lord.

Who or what needs our attention in September?

SEPTEMBER ONE

Read Proverbs One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+1&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Part of the purpose of King Solomon’s life was to write. In the introduction to Proverbs, he intends men to know wisdom and instruction, understand words of insight, receive instruction. In what? In wise dealing, righteousness, justice, and equity. Why? So prudence benefits the simple, knowledge and discretion benefit the youth. Wise men will hear in a way that increases learning; that awareness improves skills for grasping truths, whether released through proverbs, figures, conversations, or riddles.

Father, grant us wisdom for living out Your purposes for our lives.

SEPTEMBER TWO

Read Proverbs Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+2&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 6-8: When we seek the Lord and His wisdom as if going after treasure, He acts. He gives wisdom, knowledge and understanding (vs. 6). This wisdom He stores up and hides away for those who seek Him (vs. 7). He is our shield (vs.7), He “guards the paths of the just” (vs.12), and “He protects the way of His faithful ones” (Vs. 8 NIV).

Thank You, Lord, that You store up Your wisdom for me to use; thank You that You are my shield and protection as I walk in Your pathway

SEPTEMBER THREE

Read Proverbs Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+3&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: How do I acknowledge the Lord more with my life? I’m more skilled at “leaning on my own understanding” than I realize. Sometimes I mistakenly assume the Lord’s in charge when I’ve switched life to auto-pilot, or kept one finger on the controls. My understanding gets tainted by the world’s cleverness. God offers wisdom that encompasses all of life.

Father, guide me throughout my “earth stint” so I glorify You and bring joy to others.

SEPTEMBER FOUR

Read Proverbs Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+4&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Is it important to have wisdom and understanding? We are to get (search, seek for, try to get) them. Once we have them we are to not forget or forsake them. In fact, we are to hold on to them with a “tight hug” (embrace). The beginning ways of acquiring them are the fear of the Lord and the active pursuit of them. The end result? They will defend and protect us, and honor us, perhaps as “...those who honor Me I will honor...” (1Sam. 2:30).

Again, O Lord, I thank You for reminding me what pursuits are really important.

SEPTEMBER FIVE

Read Proverbs Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+5&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: The proverb pleads, “Pay attention to godly wisdom! Be understanding what is best for you!” Use that wisdom and understanding to “guard and keep knowledge and the wise answer {to temptation}” (Ampl.). Those who don’t will enter a time of discipline and regret, the regret that is foundational to all sin, "If only I had not demanded my own way!" (NLT).

O God, keep me from demanding my own way and bring my heart closer so that my way is Your way.

SEPTEMBER SIX

Read Proverbs Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+6&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 16-19: Before we, as “good people” skip over these verses -- how many of these traits have split churches - pride, lies, evil thoughts as well as actions, sowing discord among brethren (fellow Christians)?! Have you done any of these? Would things improve if you admitted your shortcomings, or forgave someone else’s?

O God, with so much discord in churches these days, we know we are not immune from these acts. Help us to remember that such acts are things You hate and are an abomination (detestable, disgusting) to You.

SEPTEMBER SEVEN

Read Proverbs Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+7&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: In verse 21, The Amplified Bible elaborates on the speech of the immoral woman. It is a “justifying and enticing argument” that leads her prey “to overcome his conscience and his fears.” The outcome is like an unsuspecting ox being led to the slaughter. Whether it is immorality or some other sin, we yield when we “overcome our conscience and our fears (of God).”

O God, let me never justify sin, nor be enticed by the “fleeting pleasures of sin.”

SEPTEMBER EIGHT

Read Proverbs Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+8&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: God designed our mouths to speak truth and excellence, to speak the right things. Our mouths aren’t to twist words so we have an advantage over our listeners. When someone hears us, our words should be worth more than gold, silver, or precious rubies. Our “counsel” is to be wise because it comes from our time acquiring Biblical truth.

Father, help me eliminate words which compete with, or that are contrary to, Your wisdom and truth.

SEPTEMBER NINE

Read Proverbs Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+9&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “Wisdom” overpowers obstacles preventing its acquisition and sweetens the deal. What hinders us from going after and benefitting from Wisdom? Its house is built, the frightening beasts are dead, food and drink are available, so, “fellow-simpletons,” let’s go after Wisdom. We begin by fearing the Lord. Why? The Lord is Truth; Truth exposes lies, counterfeits.

Father, many voices beg us to resign our wills to them, but You are Truth that satisfies and sets us free.

SEPTEMBER TEN

Read Proverbs Ten

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+10&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Warm family gatherings don’t happen if ill-spoken words or disrespect for righteousness pervades conversations. None is holy apart from the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, but righteousness is that which Christ’s followers should display. Genuine righteousness graciously conforms us into nice people who remember we’re first accountable to God.

Father, may my words, my work, my whole being bring You joy and may my example in these areas benefit my family.

SEPTEMBER ELEVEN

Read Proverbs Eleven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+11&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Because September 11 forever seared images into my mind, I pick verses 14, 21, and 23 from Proverbs 11 for today’s summarizing. The New Living Translation reads: “Without wise leadership, a nation falls; with many counselors, there is safety... You can be sure that evil people will be punished...The godly can look forward to happiness while the wicked can expect only wrath.”

Merciful God, comfort those sorrowing and graciously enlighten those deceived by false teachings.

SEPTEMBER TWELVE

Read Proverbs Twelve

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+12&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: What goals can we adopt from this chapter? If you’re a wife, become your husband’s joy. Godly children are to stand firm; how can parents equip them for that? Words and work can open lives to a better future. Truthful words are eternal. Our words should bring healing to others. Planning for peace, even in “little places,” ushers in joy. Encouragers are to cheer others – who needs that today?

Lord, when I speak, may I reflect Your truths.

SEPTEMBER THIRTEEN

Read Proverbs Thirteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+13&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Did Solomon smile writing about the rich paying ransoms and the poor living “threat-free” (vs. 8)? Some choose “poverty,” not through laziness, but by intentionally sacrificing. Ruth, my elderly friend, now deceased, refused decades of “conveniences” until her missionary sister came home from Congo. They continued their “three cotton dresses” lifestyle so others would hear of Jesus Christ; nevertheless, God instructed “blessings to keep chasing them” (vs. 21).

Father, may my ambitions align with Your will.

SEPTEMBER FOURTEEN

Read Proverbs Fourteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+14&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 1, 26: Whether we are male or female, we can contribute to the building up or the tearing down of our households. The building up consists of seeking to instill biblical, godly characteristics into all the members of the household. To tear it down means we neglect this task. Proverbs speaks of building a foundation or (vs.26) a place of refuge in the Lord for ourselves and our children.

O God, You have made it possible for us to either build or tear down the Proverbs foundation You give us, either by obeying or neglecting these commands. Help us to be tireless builders.

SEPTEMBER FIFTEEN

Read Proverbs Fifteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+15&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 4, 28: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Pr. 18:21). That is why a “gentle,” “soothing,” “healing” response is a “tree of life.” That is also why spending some time and thought before speaking is often valuable in deciding what to say.

O God, forgive me for words that have wounded others; enable me to say words that bring about healing.

SEPTEMBER SIXTEEN

Read Proverbs Sixteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+16&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss.1, 9: We may receive counsel from others (which God thinks is a good thing); we may weigh options, consequences, issues, etc., but the right answer to these things must come from the Lord. Similarly, we may make plans for our short-term and long-term future, but a successful (in God’s sight) future is directed by the Lord.

O God, may I be sensitive to God-given counsel and God-given options, that I might give a God-honoring response and follow a God-directed course.

SEPTEMBER SEVENTEEN

Read Proverbs Seventeen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+17&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs.24: Keep focused on Christ and His wisdom. If so, we have understanding. If not, we flit from one thing to another and never find true wisdom. “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart” (Jer. 29:13).

O God, keep me focused on You, that I might be truly wise.

SEPTEMBER EIGHTEEN

Read Proverbs Eighteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+18&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “The name of the Lord is a strong fortress; the godly run to Him and are safe” (verse 10). We’re constantly doing spiritual warfare. Remember “Jesus” is the strongest name in every crisis. At the name of Jesus, every knee will bow and acknowledge Jesus as Lord (Philippians 2:9-10). During our lives now, and especially when we’ve exhaled our last breath, we can count on being with the Lord, safe and secure.

Reign on, Lord.

SEPTEMBER NINETEEN

Read Proverbs Nineteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+19&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 3: People often blame someone else, even God, for sins and mistakes that they themselves have made. “People ruin their lives by their own foolishness and then are angry at the Lord” (NLT). Lamentations 3:39 makes a “Duh!” or “Of course!” exclamation: “Why should any living man complain when punished for his sins?”

Forgive me, O Lord, if I complain to You about experiencing the results of sins of my own making. Thank You for Your patience and grace that does not give me everything I deserve.

SEPTEMBER TWENTY

Read Proverbs Twenty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+20&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Solomon implies God implants advice within our hearts, perhaps referring to the conscience we possess as beings created in the image of God. Quickly, though, we benefit from wise individuals who help us realize we “naturally” tend to love ourselves more than righteousness. Is it good news or bad news today to realize God sees the motives behind our behavior?

Father, purify me so I’m a vessel fit to represent Your love for this world.

SEPTEMBER TWENTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Twenty-One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+21&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 2: What is the measure for what is right? Often, wrongly, it is ourselves. In fact, the downfall at the time of the Judges was that “everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (17:6). Jesus tells about people who “justify themselves in the sight of men” (Lk. 16:15). However, both Proverbs and Jesus tell us it is God who “weighs” and “knows” our hearts. God, not man, not ourselves, is the standard for right and wrong.

O God, I pray that I might “have the mind in me that was also in Christ Jesus,” such that I might make decisions automatically according to Your will.

SEPTEMBER TWENTY-TWO

Read Proverbs Twenty-Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+22&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs.1: Names have value. “Jesus” is the priceless name. “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold.” Perhaps “tradition” or baby books helped our parents name us. However, if we rightfully claim “Christian” as our identity, we actively chose it after we realized God had graciously pursued us for our second-birth.

Thank You, Father, for graciously renaming me as Your child through Jesus’s sacrifice.

SEPTEMBER TWENTY-THREE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+23&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Wealth has “wings” if we purpose to capture it more than to reverence God. We’re warned not to take advantage of the fatherless; God takes on their case, serving as their Redeemer. Can you hear God’s tone speak to you, to me, in verse 26? “Give Me your heart; let your eyes delight in My ways.”

Redeemer, You defeated forever the enemy determined to rob me of the joy of being Yours.

SEPTEMBER TWENTY-FOUR

Read Proverbs Twenty-Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+24&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 10: Would we like to avoid trials and adversities? Maybe. However, God gives His strength and does some of His best work in us in trials. God IS our refuge and strength and very present help in trouble (Ps. 46:1). “My strength is made perfect in weakness…” (2Cor. 12:9). Therefore, “count it all joy when you meet various trials...” (James 1:2). “Therefore I will... boast in my infirmities that the power of Christ may rest upon me... For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Cor. 12:9b, 10b).

O God, You are my Strength and very present Help in time of trouble. May I never forget.

SEPTEMBER TWENTY-FIVE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+25&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Gossip and falsehoods ruin reputations, including the reputation of the one who spews forth the misinformation. We’re warned to know truth before we speak against someone because we may not have facts straight. King Solomon tells his subjects lying is as harmful as striking a person with an ax, a sword, or piercing them with an arrow. Valid criticism, however, is as valuable as gold if we receive it well.

Father, show me my shortcomings.

SEPTEMBER TWENTY-SIX

Read Proverbs Twenty-Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+26&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Solomon’s visuals pointedly contrast the foolish and wise, cautioning me against indiscriminately choosing who, or what, receives my applause or my pursuit. Fools enshroud absurdities. Deceitful hearts seek approval, vying to silence wisdom.

Father God, train me to discern and declare truth, able to detect fools with stones tied within their slings. As I glean wisdom from Your words, O Lord, eradicate conceit’s roots by reminding me that without Your counsel I am a fool.

SEPTEMBER TWENTY-SEVEN

Read Proverbs Twenty-Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+27&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 4: “Wrath is fierce and anger is a flood...” Those are bad, but the effects of jealousy or envy are more destructive and longer lasting. Biblical examples of the effect of jealousy include Satan (he was expelled from heaven); Abel (killed his brother Cain); Joseph’s brothers (sold him into slavery); Daniel’s enemies (conspired to put him to death); Christ’s enemies (delivered him up to be crucified) (Matt.27:18).

O God, I see the serious examples of jealousy; let me never take it lightly.

SEPTEMBER TWENTY-EIGHT

Read Proverbs Twenty-Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+28&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 1: “Bold (confident)...as a lion.” Many scriptures tell me that if I have a right relationship with God, I can be bold, confident, and fearless. “The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear?” (Ps. 27:1; see also verse 3). “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Rom. 8:31). This is the confidence or boldness that was true of Daniel even in the lion’s den, David against Goliath, the apostles after the Resurrection, and of numberless Christians around the world and through the ages, even today when confronted with torture and even death for their faith.

O God, remind me again and again of the confidence and boldness I have from You and in You.

SEPTEMBER TWENTY-NINE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+29&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: This chapter counsels leaders, whether accountable for nations, communities, businesses, or children within our homes, and it also advises me about who, and how, I am to follow. It shines the light upon my innate desire to discredit wise counsel because I can foolishly invite pride to color life for me.

O Lord, do Your surgery to remove the systemic consequences of nurturing pride, both within me and within the leaders for whom I pray.

SEPTEMBER THIRTY

Read Proverbs Thirty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+30&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Agur, the author, does not pretend to be more capable than he is. In New Testament terms, Agur does not think more highly of himself than he ought. He does have, however, enough sense to know God is trustworthy and His Word is pure. Agur wants to finish life exhibiting humility, honesty, simplicity, and demonstrating his faithfulness to God, especially, it seems, to the wayward youth.

Father, may I fervently honor You with my days.

OCTOBER

If you live where you experience seasonal changes, you may need to watch weather this month so you’re prepared for a variety of temperatures. How are you preparing to be ready to meet Jesus at life’s end? Are loved ones ready? If not, remember to pray the Lord speaks to them and brings someone comes to them with the Good News about Jesus Christ before they go to a Christ-less eternity. Ask the Lord if you should be on a “mission” in October.

Who or what needs attention in October?

OCTOBER ONE

Read Proverbs One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+1&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 18, 19: These verses collaborate with the New Testament. 1Timothy 6:10 describes the kind of snare a person sets for himself when he makes the pursuit of money his chief goal in life. This pursuit is “the root of all evils,” it can cause people to “wander away from the faith,” and by it they have “pierced themselves with many griefs.”

O God, let Proverbs lead me into worthwhile pursuits and motivations.

OCTOBER TWO

Read Proverbs Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+2&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: When was the last time I dug into God’s Word with the same determination I use to find misplaced money? My intense “digging” for truth will let me hear from the Lord.  Amazing. Creator God wants me to hear Him! He wants to be my defender/protector, teaching me what’s right, just, and fair. I see one side somewhat clearly; God sees the whole picture.

Getting wisdom brings me joy, and You joy, too, O God.

OCTOBER THREE

Read Proverbs Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+3&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 19, 20: “Get wisdom,” “Get knowledge,” “Get understanding.” This is a theme throughout Proverbs. How amazing it is, then, when vss. 19, 20 tells it is by wisdom, knowledge and understanding that the world was made! God invites us into the same ingredients He had when He made the earth! How? By submitting to the co-founder of the earth, Jesus Christ. Jesus was there and created in the beginning (Jn. 1:1-3), AND He is also the source of any true wisdom we might obtain (1Cor. 1:30).

O God, how puny are our thoughts when we try to understand anything apart from a better understanding of You. And thank You that You invite us into an intimate knowledge of Yourself through Jesus Christ.

OCTOBER FOUR

Read Proverbs Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+4&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Solomon remembers wisdom he was taught, and likely now, as ruler, the benefits of not only hearing, but letting truths internalize as part of his character. Those memory sessions must have been action-oriented: hear, walk, step, run, stumble, hold, guard, avoid, turn. Then verses 20 forward: give attention, incline your ear, keep within sight, keep within heart for life and health - so especially guard the heart, focus eyes so one’s path is away from evil.

Father, help me actively walk in focused obedience, not leisurely stopping for Your enemy’s multiple distractions.

OCTOBER FIVE

Read Proverbs Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+5&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 9-11: We often ask, “How much does it cost?” Proverbs tells us to ask that question whenever we are tempted toward immorality or even ignoring God’s wisdom. The costs listed here are honor, wealth, achievements, and health. We can’t afford to ignore God!

God, thank You for Your warnings; forgive me/us for acting like there won’t be a cost for ignoring them.

OCTOBER SIX

Read Proverbs Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+6&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 20-23: These verses remind me of Deuteronomy 6:6-9 and Psalm 119:11. God’s Word, obtained through parental teaching, our own study, and the implanting of it by the Holy Spirit are to be a natural part of us. It will be so natural that it will be what guides us through the day, gives us peace as we sleep at night, and gives us perspective for facing another new day.

O God, thank You that we have no reason to be “totally clueless.”

OCTOBER SEVEN

Read Proverbs Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+7&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: In a treasured photo, I easily detected the photographer’s image captured in the “apple” of my young granddaughter’s eye. The skillful photographer had her focused attention. In Proverbs 7, we’re advised to have God’s laws as the apple of our eye, the focus for our behavior and devotion. Jesus summarized the Old Testament laws down to “love God wholeheartedly” and “love your neighbor as much as you love yourself.”

Help me focus Your way, Lord.

OCTOBER EIGHT

Read Proverbs Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+8&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Want to hate something? Hate evil. Evil’s synonyms are (vs. 13): pride, arrogance, the evil way, the froward (deceitful) mouth. Ah, can we justify strong dislike of “they” who possess characteristics we are to hate? Better, we first hate our own pride, arrogance, evil motives, and deceitful words enough to eliminate them. Wisdom offers life in its fullness. Jesus Christ is Wisdom and Truth. Reread this chapter with that awareness.

Father, we fellowship because of Jesus Christ.

OCTOBER NINE

Read Proverbs Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+9&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: If you’ve ever called on someone who leaves the TV volume louder than their voices, you have the set up for this Proverb. The simple are invited to dine by both Wisdom and the foolish (woman). Wisdom has everything available for those who respond, and the foolish woman bellows out her distractions. Have our “ears” been tuned so we’ll not be easily distracted by things that would keep us from “life” in Jesus Christ?

Father, help me be the sheep who hear Your voice and come to wherever You call me.

OCTOBER TEN

Read Proverbs Ten

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+10&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 25: See also Matt. 7:24-27. The wise man is the one who not only hears God’s Word but also does it. He has a foundation built upon rock. The foolish man hears but does not act upon it; he is the foolish man who builds on sand. His foundation soon collapses when winds of difficulty blow against it.

O God, I hear You in Proverbs and in Matthew. May I be wise to do what You call me to do

OCTOBER ELEVEN

Read Proverbs Eleven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+11&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 30 This chapter speaks of many blessings that come from those who seek God and live according to His ways. This verse tells that we disperse blessing (fruit) as a tree of life by our word and example, winning others to the Lord as well. This is also another characteristic of having wisdom.

O God, may I be so close to You that I may not only receive blessings but may also be a blessing by pointing others to You.

OCTOBER TWELVE

Read Proverbs Twelve

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+12&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Don’t you just love it when someone points out your faults? Solomon says hating reproof just confirms how “stupid” we really are. Ouch! As a new creation destined to conform to Jesus Christ through His imparted righteousness, my thinking is to be just, my words are to deliver and heal, my actions are be considerate even of animals, I’m to remain teachable, and I’m to flee wickedness.

Patient Father, thank You for tireless work on me.

OCTOBER THIRTEEN

Read Proverbs Thirteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+13&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 12: Our “hopes” may be anything from certain material benefits to healing from illness. When these and other hopes take “too long,” we lose heart, we get discouraged, and we may even give up. In a prolonged illness, we “groan and long to put on our heavenly dwelling” (2Cor. 5:2). Christ’s first coming, and now His second coming, were both hopes deferred. But, again, the good news is “this slight, momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison...” (Cor. 4:17).

O God, Your timing is not the same as ours. May I wait during illness or trials knowing that at the end there is truly “a tree of life” and fulfillment of all Your promises.

OCTOBER FOURTEEN

Read Proverbs Fourteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+14&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 12: This verse speaks to me of the tragedy of the person who tries to go through life without the Lord. It is like he is “reinventing the wheel” in all his decisions because he is not following the directions from God’s Word. At the end, he seems pretty self-satisfied but tragically finds that not only could this life have gone much easier, but that he is excluded from the life to come. In short, “I did it my way” makes a nice song but a tragic ending.

O God, preserve me from even those moments when I think it best to “do it my way.”

OCTOBER FIFTEEN

Read Proverbs Fifteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+15&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Of course our All-Knowing God knows our hearts. What a waste of time to not pursue godliness. Do we realize God prizes the righteous person’s prayers more than the largest donation the wicked can make? God is far from the wicked, but so close to those pursing godliness that He hears them whisper prayers. What a word picture of the loving intimacy God offers to us.

Father, thank You for “hanging on my every word.”

OCTOBER SIXTEEN

Read Proverbs Sixteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+16&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “Commit your work to the Lord…(vs. 3 NLT).” How would doing that change your view of your work? Isn’t it possible the “routine” work you do standing next to that individual is where God placed you so that person would learn about Jesus Christ? Amy Carmichael, a missionary whose life went differently than planned, wanted to do “big things” for God, but realized wiping a baby’s bottom can be a holy task, too. (And she also did, no doubt, “big things” for God.)

Use me, Lord.

OCTOBER SEVENTEEN

Read Proverbs Seventeen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+17&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Does our society now call some things “good” that used to be called “evil,” and some things that used to be called “evil” it now calls “good”? Vs. 15 says both justifying the wicked and condemning the righteous are an abomination - something disgusting and hateful - to the Lord. Isaiah 5:21, 23 says woe to those who are “wise in their own eyes and clever in their own sight…” who “justify the wicked... and take away the rights of the ones who are in the right” (NASB). See Proverbs 24:24 for its implication to nations. See also Malachi 2:17.

O God, Your Word is so timely. May we seriously heed Your warning and repent (turn and go in the opposite direction.)

OCTOBER EIGHTEEN

Read Proverbs Eighteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+18&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: The purpose of words is an interesting subject to ponder. Here we read words can be “life-giving water,” producing images of a dying man in a desert charitably given water to restore his possibility of survival. We’re cautioned, however, against too quickly offering “words/advice” until we’ve learned facts, establishing accuracy. Words can destroy friendships and break spirits, but right words satisfy the soul as food nourishes our physical bodies.

Father, direct my words so I offer life-giving water.

OCTOBER NINETEEN

Read Proverbs Nineteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+19&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Money does not reveal how good a person is, though money can make a person temporarily popular, especially if the wealthy individual distributes “niceties” to others. A poor person doesn’t attract greedy neighbors, but the Lord will repay those who care for people who are currently poor for reasons other than their own laziness or foolishness. If we have to choose between a rich liar and a poor man, choose the poor man.

Father, bless the needy through my generosity.

OCTOBER TWENTY

Read Proverbs Twenty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+20&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 9: Other scriptures echo this verse. Everyone sins (Rom. 3:23). If you don’t think you do, read what God says in 1 John, chapter 1, verse 8. Don’t kid yourself otherwise (Jer. 17:9), the consequences are too severe. Others need to know the good news of Jesus Christ, too.

Father God, thank You that through faith in Jesus Christ You have made provision for forgiveness and my cleansing from sin (1John 1:9); I can have eternal life with You even though I don’t deserve forgiveness or fellowship with You on my own merits.

OCTOBER TWENTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Twenty-One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+21&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Proverbs talks about being married to a contentious (nagging, quarrelsome, fault-finding) woman. Vs. 9 says it is better to live on the roof, exposed to all kinds of weather, or to live in a desert land, than to live with such a woman. The same things could be said of living with a contentious man. Verse 23 says to guard our mouths and thus keep from trouble.

O God, again, keep watch over the door of my lips that I might not “drive others up to the roof.”

OCTOBER TWENTY-TWO

Read Proverbs Twenty-Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+22&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “Train a child in the way he should go…”(NIV). What training resources should we use? God’s Word is a sound place to start. From this chapter, a child could learn to protect his name’s worth, avoid danger, respect the poor, be humble before the Lord, be morally pure, avoid laziness, and evaluate relationships and finances. Wouldn’t you enjoy those children?

Father, You offer Your children training for all of life; help us willingly apply truths.

OCTOBER TWENTY-THREE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+23&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “Do not let your heart envy sinners…” (vs. 17.) Isn’t it sometimes aggravating, frustrating, and puzzling how blatant sin and lying seems to go untouched? BUT (vs. 18) “...there is a future and your hope will not be cut off.” Psalm 73 also has this theme. It concludes that there is destruction for sinners, but for now “...I am continually with You; You hold me by might right hand. You will guide me with Your counsel, and afterward receive me in glory” (vs.24).

O God, I hear Your reply as that like You had to Peter (John 21:23) “If I will that he remain until I come, what is that to you?” I am to keep focused on You, not other people.

OCTOBER TWENTY-FOUR

Read Proverbs Twenty-Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+24&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 13, 14: Honey is not only used as a sweetener, it is also used to prevent cancer and heart disease, reduce ulcers, relieve cough and throat irritation, soothe indigestion, and heal cuts. Proverbs tells us wisdom is like honey, having many benefits, including a future and a living hope. The future and hope of the Christian is the return of Christ (Titus 2:13), the hope of seeing Him and becoming like Him (1John 3:2, 3), as well as a product that comes when we go through suffering now (Rom. 5:4, 5).

O God, as honey has many benefits we do not realize, so may we pursue Your wisdom that also has benefits that extend even into eternal life.

OCTOBER TWENTY-FIVE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+25&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 28: When we have no rule over our lives, we are defenseless against unrestrained anger, gluttony, drunkenness, lust, pride, selfish ambition, etc. We can defend and rule ourselves only with God’s power and Lordship ruling in our lives. We “owe” God our submitted wills if we expect to reap His blessings.

Forgive me, O God, when I have dismissed You and have tried to rule over areas of my life by myself.

OCTOBER TWENTY-SIX

Read Proverbs Twenty-Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+26&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 12: Other scriptures also mention people who are “wise in their own eyes,” and therefore, “foolish”: the prideful Pharisee (Lk. 18:11); the “lukewarm” church of Laodicea (Rev. 3:17), are two examples. To be truly wise is to be like the penitent tax collector (Lk. 18:13) and turn to the Lord as in Rev. 3:18-20.

O God, pride is a dangerous thing. It makes me think I am better than others for whom Jesus also died; it also makes me think I can do without You. Correct me when pride wants me to think these thoughts.

OCTOBER TWENTY-SEVEN

Read Proverbs Twenty-Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+27&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 19: “As a face is reflected in the water, so the heart reflects the person” (NLT). Jesus would later say the same thing: “For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries...false witness, slanders...” (Matt. 15:19). We sometimes try to put up a facade of “niceness” or even “religiosity,” but our thoughts, words, and actions often betray us because of what is truly in our hearts.

“May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer” (Ps. 19:14).

OCTOBER TWENTY-EIGHT

Read Proverbs Twenty-Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+28&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Solomon warns against trying for wealth without effort. Workers will have provisions unless wicked or foolish rulers or oppressors prevent that consequence. Poverty while being righteous is not failure and the Lord will see that provision is made. However, when someone is capable but unwilling to work, poverty is one’s choice. People can choose to lack wisdom; lacking wisdom leads to poverty.

Lord, You provide for us, sometimes miraculously supplying our needs, but most often by supplying our strength.

OCTOBER TWENTY-NINE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+29&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 23: Another example of where biblical thinking runs contrary to natural thinking. Exalt self...you are lowered. Lower yourself... you are exalted. “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). “Humble yourselves before the Lord and He will lift you up” (James 4:10). Our model is Christ; our goal is to be Christ-like in attitude, thought, and action (Phil. 2:1-11).

O God, create in me the mind of Jesus, for if Jesus Christ did not dare exalt Himself, how could I ever exalt myself!

OCTOBER THIRTY

Read Proverbs Thirty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+30&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “Every word of God proves true” (verse 5). Humankind continues to move from willingness to be humbly accountable to God, toward more attempts to convince others that God is a “non-factor” for the way we “do life.” That’s the oldest ploy on the books. Satan used it in Genesis 3, with his “Did God really say…?” Truth’s consequences remain, whether we believe they’ll come about or not.

Eternal, Wise Father, thank You for being totally trustworthy.

OCTOBER THIRTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Thirty-One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+31&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 30: “Charm is deceptive and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised” (NLT). Things that endure are of great value. Why, then, do people look for and settle for vanishing qualities like beauty and cleverness when they select a mate? O, that we might have keener insight into answering the question, “Is this the kind of person I would like to spend the rest of my life with?”

God, thank You for giving me a woman who gets more precious because You have given her enduring qualities.

NOVEMBER

In the United States, and in some other countries, there is a day designated as a reminder to live grateful to the Lord for His blessings. Many take the challenge of expressing gratitude for one specific thing each day during November. Are you up for that discipline?

Who or what occasions should we remember this month?

NOVEMBER ONE

Read Proverbs One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+1&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 4, 5: The proverbs have something for everyone. The simple (those easily led astray) are given a cleverness to distinguish between right and wrong. Youth are given knowledge and purpose (discretion). The wise receive continued instruction from the Lord; and people with discernment will be steered in the right direction. Other verses, of course, tell of the consequences of those who refuse God’s wisdom. They are called fools.

O God, thank You that no matter what stage of life I am in, You still have “words of wisdom” that I need.

NOVEMBER TWO

Read Proverbs Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+2&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: How are we to know “the right path”? Proverbs 2 tells us to discover what is right, just, and fair, then we’ll be able to know the course of action we are to take. These three conditions may not be automatically similar. Their “execution” requires us to be without bias. When two want the same candy bar, one cuts, the other chooses first. It’s right, just, and fair.

O Lord, help me not be self-seeking.

NOVEMBER THREE

Read Proverbs Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+3&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 21-26: Wisdom and discretion are to be highly prized. When God’s wisdom dwells within us (Pr. 2:10) we can be fearless, and can even sleep well in the midst of difficult time (vss. 24, 25). We can live (walk) securely or with confidence (v. 23) because the Lord is our confidence (who we depend on) (vs. 26).

O God, may I cling to You and Your Wisdom, finding peace, not always in absence from difficulty, but even in the midst of difficulty.

NOVEMBER FOUR

Read Proverbs Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+4&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs.16, 17: We sometimes say of a person who has a passion for a certain thing that they “eat and sleep” (a sport, music, etc.) This means that a specific interest is all consuming for them. Here (vss. 16, 17), a person “eats and sleeps” wickedness. Our passion - what we “eat and sleep” should be to do the will of God. It was true of Jesus (John 4:34); He says that being in close relationship with Him and doing His will should be the same for us (John 6:51-57).

O God, how short I come from craving relationship with You at least as much as I crave physical food. May I continually hunger for that close relationship with You.

NOVEMBER FIVE

Read Proverbs Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+5&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 8b: “...and come not near the door of her house.” Amplified version adds: “avoid the very scenes of temptation.” Rom. 16:17 has a similar mood regarding those who seek dissension: “Keep away from them.” 1Thess. 5:22 (Ampl): “Abstain from evil [shrink from it and keep aloof from it] in whatever form or whatever kind it may be.”

O God, may I always use Your strength to “avoid the very scenes of temptation” in whatever form or whatever kind it may be.

NOVEMBER SIX

Read Proverbs Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+6&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: This chapter’s financial wisdom: Don’t co-sign loans; don’t secure another’s debt with what I cannot lose. If it’s happened, we’re to do our best to get out of the agreement. A lazy liar likes to ask others for money. Laziness doesn’t stop when rewarded with “easy” money. Someone, though, did cover my sin debt. He secured my eternal peace. His name is Jesus Christ.

Father, grant me wisdom to bless the “unavoidably poor” through my resources, partly out of gratefulness to Your gracious generosity toward me when I could never have repaid my debt to You.

NOVEMBER SEVEN

Read Proverbs Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+7&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 12, 26: The passage could be about any sin. It flits about, ready to ambush (vs.12); it has cast down many men, even strong men (vs. 26). We are powerless on our own. Our heart is deceitful (Jer. 17:9); our sinful nature is ever present (Rom. 7:18). Satan is constantly looking for someone to devour (1Pet. 5:8). We therefore overcome not by our power (wealth, fame, will), but through Christ (Rom. 7:24, 25; Phil. 4:13).

O God, I have often read of pastors, athletes, wealthy people, influential people etc. whose lives have been destroyed by sin. What makes me think that without Christ’s control, I can be victorious?!

NOVEMBER EIGHT

Read Proverbs Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+8&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Pr. 8:34-36: We are to watch for wisdom as if we did not want to miss anything when the temple doors are opened. We are to knock at God’s door and never be far from it. Whoever dismisses wisdom and goes another way is as if he is on a suicidal path. In the New Testament, to seek wisdom is to seek Jesus Christ, God’s Holy and Only Son, and thereby find life (John 8:51).

O God, may I eagerly, persistently seek You, that I may walk in the path of life.

NOVEMBER NINE

Read Proverbs Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+9&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 8, 9: How defensive we sometimes get when people correct us! However, being wise includes receiving correction and loving the corrector, and accepting instruction knowing that we can always learn something. Pride could keep me from wanting even God’s correction.

God, thank You for those who have lovingly corrected me; keep me from being a know-it-all; may I be humble enough to learn especially from Your Word.

NOVEMBER TEN

Read Proverbs Ten

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+10&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: The “world” is intentionally hostile toward God. Today I pray Proverbs 10 for those experiencing evil consequences because they desire to be righteous. May their righteousness deliver them from death. May they/their loved ones have sufficient food. May respect for them outlive their lives. May they discern correct paths and their words benefit others more than silver would.

Father, You see beyond each “today” and I trust You to answer the prayers of those persecuted because of their love for Jesus Christ.

NOVEMBER ELEVEN

Read Proverbs Eleven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+11&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: USA’s Veterans Day. What debt we, and those benefitting from their bravery, owe to our military. Why is the military necessary? God acknowledges evil: treacherous people destroy themselves, trapped by their own sin; the wicked person’s hope dies with the wicked person; nations’ futures depend upon God’s grace and leaders possessing wisdom; God hates twisted hearts; evil people may be punished now, certainly later.

Father, remind me it is You who counsels about how to be godly and warn about consequences for the wicked.

NOVEMBER TWELVE

Read Proverbs Twelve

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+12&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Mom disliked hearing, “You’ve got to learn to…” from critics. I sympathize. Who likes reminders of “the obvious” in particular situations? Feeling comfortable with what we know can make us dislike criticism. However, with teachable spirits, we can glean deeper wisdom each time we study God’s Word. Mom studied God’s Word daily, and taught it, so we, and others, benefitted.

Father, help me submit to the discipline of absorbing Your truths each day.

NOVEMBER THIRTEEN

Read Proverbs Thirteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+13&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Mining for gratefulness from this chapter, I see: I’m thankful for good parental discipline, for words with good results, for people who hold their tongue. I’m thankful work is rewarding and that truth exposes lies. I’m thankful Jesus paid my ransom, that I know joy. I’m grateful for wise counselors, hopes realized, and God’s blessings. I’m grateful to have had an inheritance and children I loved enough to discipline.

Thank You, Father, for innumerable blessings.

NOVEMBER FOURTEEN

Read Proverbs Fourteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+14&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 11 Isn’t it interesting, the wicked have a house, but the upright have a tent. Why? Those close to God know that this life, this body, and even our best accomplishments here on earth, are only temporary. Our real home and our real joy is in heaven. Notice, the “house” is destroyed but the “tent” flourishes; the righteous, when “planted in the house of the Lord...will flourish in the courts of the Lord...” (See Ps. 92:12-15).

O God, help me to continually keep my perspective and priorities straight, discerning what is temporary and what will last forever.

NOVEMBER FIFTEEN

Read Proverbs Fifteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+15&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 15: (Amplified) “... he who has a glad heart has a continual feast [regardless of circumstances].” Prosperity and absence of trouble may not bring a glad heart. Poverty, sorrows, and afflictions may not prevent a glad heart. Joy in the Lord is not dependent on outward circumstances, but on an inward, ongoing relationship with the Lord.

O God, thank You for a “continual feast” that I may have in Your presence regardless of my outward circumstances

NOVEMBER SIXTEEN

Read Proverbs Sixteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+16&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: If God audited our business, what rating would we receive? Is every deal totally fair? Do we build our success without any evil motivation? We’re useful to God if we’re humble. We can voluntarily become humble or go through God’s humbling process. The secret to happiness is not continuously acquiring more than we can manage, but to trust completely in the Lord (vs.20).

Thank You, Father, that the secret to happiness is not a secret.

NOVEMBER SEVENTEEN

Read Proverbs Seventeen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+17&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Pride raises our “chin” when we seek out someone we judge to be “inferior.” The sin of envy begs to get comfortable when we’re tempted to feel somehow “superior” to another. God judges hearts. We sin by pretending “evil” is acceptable. Bribes pervert justice. God is Justice. It is evil to condemn the innocent. God tells us to “Stay focused!” on getting wisdom, instead of “wandering” after what is false and foolish.

Father, focus me on You.

NOVEMBER EIGHTEEN

Read Proverbs Eighteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+18&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs.14: Several proverbs talk about merry and downcast spirits. Scripture doesn’t remove us from suffering but promises God’s presence and help in suffering, and His using suffering so that we can help others (2 Cor. 1:4). To have a confident and peaceful spirit in the midst of trials is to rely on God’s Holy Spirit ministering in and through us.

Lord, always encourage my spirit with Your Spirit, reminding me that I am indwelt by the Resurrected and Victorious Lord!

NOVEMBER NINETEEN

Read Proverbs Nineteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+19&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 22: “That which is desired in a man is loyalty and kindness {and his glory and delight are his giving}...” (Ampl.) “Kindness” = zealous affection towards all that is good, including devotion to God and people. Jesus grew “in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man” (Lk. 2:52). Ought not I desire to do that as well?

O God, may I develop characteristics that You desire in a man of God, especially a keen desire to love You and to serve others.

NOVEMBER TWENTY

Read Proverbs Twenty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+20&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “Ears to hear and eyes to see – both are gifts from the Lord” (vs. 12). Not everyone receives those gifts. Some who best see the way to live a Christ-honoring life are physically sightless. Some without physical hearing “hear” God clearly. In an attitude of gratefulness, intentionally notice how enriched our perception is because of our senses, and let’s express appreciation to God for these gifts.

Father, may I have the “sense” to obediently follow You.

NOVEMBER TWENTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Twenty-One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+21&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 3,7,15: Justice (doing the right thing) is not an idea; it is something we do. God likes that better than going through the motions in religious actions (vs.3). It is a requirement of a follower of the Lord (Micah 6:8). God takes our refusal to do right (justice) seriously (vs. 7). It should be a joy for us (not just an obligation) to do the right thing (vs. 15).

O God, keep me from having “religious knowledge” without putting it into practice for the benefit of others.

NOVEMBER TWENTY-TWO

Read Proverbs Twenty-Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+22&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Verses 17-21 not only tell us to actively seek wisdom -- incline your ear, apply your heart, fix them on your lips - they also tell the benefits and results of affixing God’s wisdom into our makeup: trust in the Lord and knowing the certainties of truth. God says, “I have instructed you today... I have written to you excellent things of counsels and knowledge.”

O God, thank You for loving us so much to share Your wisdom with us; forgive us for thinking we know better.

NOVEMBER TWENTY-THREE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+23&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 15, 16, 24, 25: Scripture says, “Rejoice always” (1Thess. 5:16), (Phil. 4:4). Proverbs tells us that when the righteous rule, the people rejoice (29:2). In this chapter, there is rejoicing when a person is wise and does right things (vss.15, 16), and parents rejoice to have wise children (24, 25). We are also to rejoice in our hope (Rom. 12:12), even the hope of the glory of God (Rom. 5:2), and even though we have never personally seen Christ (1Pet. 1:8).

O God, thank You for showing me that I have many reasons to rejoice today, and that I might also become a cause of other people’s rejoicing as well.

NOVEMBER TWENTY-FOUR

Read Proverbs Twenty-Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+24&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 27 suggests developing businesses before we build our homes. Too often we overextend ourselves financially by contracting for “the house we want” before our salaries can afford it. We can’t, and the Pilgrims couldn’t, avoid all mistakes, but an eye to the future makes good “cents.” The statistics of 1620-21 might have been better had they arrived in time to “plant” for the future. What are you “planting” for your future?

Father, help me work wisely and joyfully count Your blessings.

NOVEMBER TWENTY-FIVE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+25&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “Valid criticism is as treasured by the one who heeds it as jewelry made from finest gold” (NLT, verse 12). Pride makes most of us easily offended by critics. A good critic loves us, and points out our shortcomings to spare us future consequences. If we are destined for heaven, it’s because the Holy Spirit made us aware we needed a Savior to forgive our sins.

Thank You, Holy Spirit, for pointing out my sinfulness.

NOVEMBER TWENTY-SIX

Read Proverbs Twenty-Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+26&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Honoring fools is as out of place as snow in summer and rain when farmers are harvesting. Hiring fools but expecting them to complete work correctly or efficiently, is like trusting an archer who randomly lets his arrows strike bystanders. Archers can be taught; fools can forsake their senselessness; but wills must become conformed to coincide with the desired outcomes because a fool thinks he’s already wiser than others.

Father, grant us wisdom honoring You.

NOVEMBER TWENTY-SEVEN

Read Proverbs Twenty-Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+27&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs.1: Scriptures say much about tomorrow. It depends on God’s willing it (James 4:13-15). It is uncertain (Lk. 12:16-20). Our lives and our “tomorrows” are fleeting (James 4:14). Therefore, don’t worry about tomorrow, but instead, leave it in God’s hands (Matt. 6:25-34). Our lives now and in the future should have Christ as their object (Philippians 1:21). It is God who has plans “to give you hope and a future” (Jer. 29:11-13 NIV).

God, thank You that my past has been forgiven by You, and my present and my future are secure in Your hands.

NOVEMBER TWENTY-EIGHT

Read Proverbs Twenty-Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+28&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Hearing “I’m sorry,” “I behaved inappropriately,” or expressions of contrition, brings admiration for another’s public bravery in owning sinfulness. The test of sincerity, though, is in deserting the sin for which one apologizes. Hardened hearts prevent our coming to faith, and later, our hardened hearts expose our incomplete understanding of righteousness’ source. Pride also stirs up strife and makes us fools.

Father, when I tell you “I’m sorry,” may I prove it by deserting my sin; thank You that the righteousness of Jesus Christ is mine to claim because Jesus took on my sin at the cross and because His Holy Spirit can indwell me as an “earnest” payment toward eternal fellowship with You.

NOVEMBER TWENTY-NINE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+29&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 18: “When people do not accept divine guidance, they run wild. But whoever obeys the law is happy” (NLT). When I looked up the original meanings of the words “vision” and “perish,” this translation seemed to fit those words well. It was compared to the Israelites when Moses was on the mountain away from them (Ex. 32:25). This is also the pattern of our lives and our country apart from God.

O God, may I/we see and obey the wisdom of Your Word.

NOVEMBER THIRTY

Read Proverbs Thirty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+30&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: During this month of gratefulness, why not apply the wisdom gleaned in verse 11? Can we still let fathers know we appreciate them? Can we still thank our mothers for their good intentions toward us? The only perfect parent is God, and we don’t always understand His actions either. If it’s too late to thank parents for “trying,” then let’s honor them for the good we remember them bestowing upon us. We benefit by thinking gratefully.

Thank You, Father.

DECEMBER

Sometimes December’s calendar can get so loaded we don’t have time to celebrate Christ’s birth. Do you know that years from now, many of us will have an easier time remembering kind words spoken to us rather than gifts we received? Let’s not buy gifts out of guilt, gifts that will make us all groan when we’re having trouble paying January’s bills. Simple gifts, meaningful words… those can impact lives in lovely ways. God has already “out-gifted” us all when He sent Jesus Christ. Perhaps you’ll feel extra blessed by finding someone who is sacrificially serving the Lord and making a significant donation to ease that person’s burdens.

Who or what needs our highest priorities this month?

DECEMBER ONE

Read Proverbs One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+1&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Again, we begin tackling Solomon’s ancient book in this year’s final readings. Are we wiser than when we began this project? We are if we’ve let these truths “apprehend” us. If we’ve become more mature, more successful, are we finding ways to expose these Biblical truths to others (vss. 2-4)? The “worst case scenario” would be verses 28-29.

Lord, I want Your truth to “apprehend” me until I am more like Your Son, Jesus Christ; I want my life to count for You.

DECEMBER TWO

Read Proverbs Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+2&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Why not read this chapter again, but inserting as many “if I”(s) for the conditions it lists? If I listen, if I treasure God’s instructions, if I tune my ears to wisdom, if I concentrate on understanding, if I search intently for wisdom …THEN I will understand how to fear the Lord. God wants us to know Him and His counsel, that’s why the Bible has survived rulers who sought to destroy it. As we go through gleaning wisdom from Proverbs this final time, let’s also be willing to explore the sayings of Jesus or the instructions for Christians in the New Testament in the days ahead. Who do you know who will help you understand God’s truths more fully?

Father, “feed me ‘til I want no more”…which likely means, until I’m in Your presence, and that reality will be mine only by faith in Jesus Christ as my sole Savior from consequences that were due me for my foolishness.

DECEMBER THREE

Read Proverbs Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+3&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 9: Normally we think of tithing when we read this verse. Okay, but since all we have already comes from God, what about honoring God with the first-fruits or the best of our possessions, our talents, our thoughts, our time, (maybe you can think of more categories)? The old song said, “Give of your best to the Master, give Him first place in your heart…”

God, show me creative ways that I can make my possessions, my talents, my time, my thoughts, etc. available for Your use, so You use them to bless others.

DECEMBER FOUR

Read Proverbs Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+4&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 8, 9: Old 7UP commercials proclaimed, “You like it; it likes you!” Proverbs 4 says of wisdom and understanding, “You exalt them; they exalt you!” Not surprising, as God, in the Old Testament said “...those who honor me I will honor...” (1Sam. 2:30), or in the New Testament, Jesus says, “If anyone serves me, him my Father will honor” (John 12:26).

O, the magnificence of the blessings we miss when we put You, Father God, second in our plans, thoughts, and devotion.

DECEMBER FIVE

Read Proverbs Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+5&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Want to start a campaign to have “immoral women” wear a “poison” warning label? The NLT Bible equates immoral women with poison, a double-edged sword, and death. Their clients lose their honor, wealth, and health, and, as a bonus, suffer public disgrace. NLT says “men” die from lack of self-control. Next time we see someone dressed to attract sexual encounters or fantasizing, think, “Poison!” If you’re a parent, encourage modesty.

Thank You, God, for designing sexual pleasure as part of marriage.

DECEMBER SIX

Read Proverbs Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+6&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Adultery is all too common today. Vs. 32 says that a person who does this: “lacks understanding” (NKJV), “lacks sense” (NAS), “lacks judgment” (NIV), “is an utter fool!” (NLT). The consequences are that he “destroys himself” (NAS, NIV),and “destroys his own soul” (NLT, KJV). One commentary describes him as a “self-murderer i.e., he intends to ruin his position and his prosperity in life.”

O God, that everyone might see sin as You see it and seek to please You, even more than ourselves.

DECEMBER SEVEN

Read Proverbs Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+7&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Using vss. 1-3, are we engraving God’s Word in our hearts, or are we putting it “on scrap paper” which we’ll lose or ignore? Our most priceless possession is God’s Truth. Does my living, my thinking, demonstrate that? How will it today? Christmas provides an opportunity to help someone be drawn closer to the Christ of Christmas. Thoughtfully select gifts and greetings that impart priceless Truth.

Father, help me wisely shop for those needing a “priceless” gift.

DECEMBER EIGHT

Read Proverbs Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+8&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vss. 17-21: Many verses say to pursue wisdom. The results (fruit) of doing this is worth more than gold or silver (v.19). Some of these inestimable riches are that God loves those who love Him (His wisdom) and will give His wisdom to those who seek it (Vs. 17). God promises to bless us in many ways when we seek Him and His wisdom (see vs.18 and also Matt. 6:33 in the New Testament).

O God, how we dishonor Your generous offer when we take a “ho-hum” attitude in pursuing our relationship with You and obtaining Your Wisdom. Forgive us, we pray.

DECEMBER NINE

Read Proverbs Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+9&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Wisdom and Folly invite passersby to their homes. Wisdom is mocked because mockers mock wisdom. Wisdom invites anyone. Her menu includes fear of the Lord, understanding, righteousness, knowledge of God, and long life. Folly’s menu offers death. Scripture teaches us how God indwells and empowers Christ’s flawed, but obedient, followers so they can imitate Him with increasing accuracy. We choose today’s dining host. How shall we respond?

Father, thank You for a purposeful life now and eternal life forever through faith in Your Holy Son, Jesus Christ.

DECEMBER TEN

Read Proverbs Ten

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+10&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Verse 3 tells us the Lord doesn’t let the godly starve to death. Other verses speak of blessings due to, and from, the godly. Our only source of genuine “godliness” is through the indwelling Spirit of Jesus Christ, which takes up residence the moment we place our faith in Jesus Christ as our Savior. James 1:27 reminds us that to practice “true religion,” means, “…we must care for orphans and widows in their trouble…” Let’s support such causes.

Father, may I not miss opportunities to contribute so the godly glorify You and the lost are caused to marvel at Your goodness.

DECEMBER ELEVEN

Read Proverbs Eleven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+11&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “Trust in your money and down you go!” “Riches won’t help us on the day of judgment…” (NLT, vss. 4, 28). Smooth words won’t spare us either. God created us “on purpose,” but what purpose have we chosen? What matters most to us – others’ opinions about us, or the fact that we will each be accountable to God? What around you cannot be spent, decay, or rot? Live life the way God created you to live it.

Father, may I delight in adopting Your purposes.

DECEMBER TWELVE

Read Proverbs Twelve

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+12&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: When I cooperate with God’s plan and obey according to His Word, I will be a person who: loves instruction, has right thoughts, is kind to animals, is hard-working, heeds counsel, speaks truth, encourages others, and chooses friends carefully. God tells us the results of following His plan: favor from the Lord, fruitfulness, deliverance through trouble, life, and joy.

O God, may I be “wise” in choosing Your path of “righteousness.”

DECEMBER THIRTEEN

Read Proverbs Thirteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+13&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 24: If we are being disciplined by the Lord we need not ask, “Why me?” Instead, we might see it as the actions of a loving Father who cares how we turn out. Look up Pr. 3:11, 12; and Heb. 12:5-11. On a human level, to discipline our children harshly, angrily, and irrationally is not a display of love but only of our own sin and frustration. Discipline is training with the future in mind.

O God, thank You that You love us, even at times, to the point of discipline.

DECEMBER FOURTEEN

Read Proverbs Fourteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+14&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 13 speaks of sorrow in the midst of laughter and grief in the midst of joy. Some connect this understanding with the feeling of “disquiet and separation from (our) true home... and... the nothingness, the transitory nature of all that is earthly,” [Keil] plus the natural sorrows in life and in our relationships with other people. Why do we feel lonely, even sad in the midst of a crowd? Is our loneliness because we long to have fellowship with and be accepted by the One who knows us yet loves us unconditionally?

O God, thank You that even in my best times, that is not “as good as it gets.”

DECEMBER FIFTEEN

Read Proverbs Fifteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+15&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: From the NLT, these verses indicate it’s easier to “feed on trash” than to satisfy our hunger for truth. The Lord watches all things at once – amazing! The path that leads to eternal fellowship with God means His children leave the grave behind! Having “little” now, with fear of the Lord, is “richer” than having much with turmoil. Good company makes even a bowl of soup more enjoyable than steak with someone we’re at odds with.

Father, keep me pursuing fellowship with You.

DECEMBER SIXTEEN

Read Proverbs Sixteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+16&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: The church is to proclaim the truths of Jesus Christ and it is to draw others into that fellowship by the ways we demonstrate how much we love each other. Vss. 27-29: “Ungodly,” “perverse,” and “violent” are adjectives used to describe someone who “digs up evil,” “sows strife,” and “entices his neighbor... in a way that is not good.” Could those be descriptions of people within churches? Could that be a description of you or me?

O God, Your church has many such people; may we repent and seek Your better way instead.

DECEMBER SEVENTEEN

Read Proverbs Seventeen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+17&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Being quarrelsome is like a trickle of water in a dam that ends up as a flood. It is even difficult to share a meal with such a person. It is a sign of a person who loves sin. However, a person who thinks before he speaks, is wise in his choice of words, and who at times is even silent, demonstrates wisdom and understanding.

O God, guard the floodgates of my mind and my heart that I might not open the floodgates of my lips.

DECEMBER EIGHTEEN

Read Proverbs Eighteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+18&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 19: “A brother offended is harder to be won over than a strong city...” How true that is sometimes in families and often times in churches. In either body, the remedy is the example of Christ and the methods of Proverbs. If we bear the name of Christ, we had better act like Him!

O God, forgive us for claiming the right to be mad at someone when Christ didn’t even claim that right. Use us to exhibit Christ’s love freely to others.

DECEMBER NINETEEN

Read Proverbs Nineteen

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+19&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 21: A friend of mine says, “If you want to see God laugh, tell Him your plans.” Bad ideas may include trendy but faulty car designs, fashion styles, the “latest” electronic device, the laws and plans of nations, or even our own ideas of how we want our lives to go. Without the counsel of the Lord, these are all faulty and fleeting plans. “But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purpose of His heart through all generations” (Ps. 33:11).

O God, may I so align myself with You that I am more in tune with Your plans that will stand firm forever.

DECEMBER TWENTY

Read Proverbs Twenty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+20&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: King Solomon indicates leaders are to love peace and justice. He knows some disperse evil. Twice (10, 23) we read that our Supreme, Eternal King despises double standards, using two “scales” to decide consequences. Verse 28 states: “Loyalty and truth preserve the king, and he upholds his throne by righteousness” (NASB).

Lord, raise up, I pray, godly world leaders who love peace, justice, and righteousness, and, in our nation, voters who elect them.

DECEMBER TWENTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Twenty-One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+21&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Christmas bell-ringers and appeals outnumbering Christmas cards in my mailbox all want my money for the poor. Verses 13 and 21cannot be ignored: “Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself but not be heard” and “He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life…” (KJV). I can’t solve everyone’s financial problems, but I can do something in Jesus’s Name.

Father, since all I have came from You, and is still Yours, I’m foolish to think “keeping all of this as mine” is God-economics.

DECEMBER TWENTY-TWO

Read Proverbs Twenty-Two

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+22&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 28: Change is often good. Improvements are often for the better. However, scripture speaks of several “landmarks” that should never be removed: fear of God, morality, integrity, graciousness toward others, loyalty to spouse and family, etc. How many lives and nations have been ruined because of the removal of such “ancient landmarks”?

O God, reveal to me any of those precious landmarks, spoken in Your word, that I am in danger of removing from my life.

DECEMBER TWENTY-THREE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Three

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+23&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Two days before Bethlehem, Mary and Joseph plodded toward the tax table and stable, perhaps with increasing anxiety over the enormous responsibility of “raising” the world’s Redeemer. Sinless Jesus willingly subjected Himself to an earthly life because He loved us. Are you influencing a child? This chapter encourages faithfully training our imperfect children to become wise, so they choose the right course.

Father, thank You for gently loving Your children so we’d gently love others.

DECEMBER TWENTY-FOUR

Read Proverbs Twenty-Four

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+24&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Hmm, verses 1-2, 11, 17-19... With a little “twist”...Herod (in the Christmas story in Matthew and Luke) could be cited as one devising violence while his lips talk of mischief. He’s an abomination even still to us. An angel warns of evil; Joseph does what’s necessary to rescue “the Infant” from death (though God would always triumph over the enemy concerning Jesus). Then we’re cautioned (vss. 17-19). Despicable Herod reminds us we Christ-followers sometimes wrestle with God about who reigns in us.

Father, Christmas reaffirms Your love for sinners who would be lost without Jesus our Savior.

DECEMBER TWENTY-FIVE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Five

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+25&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: A fitly spoken word is more precious than gifts of gold.  A wise reprover is as a golden ornament. Nothing is more refreshing than a faithful messenger of good news.  Christ’s followers are entrusted with  Good News for “thirsty” souls.

Compassionate Father, You gave the costliest Gift to us and Jesus Christ has changed our daily lives and destiny. Help us to obediently share Jesus with hearts You’ve prepared to receive Him as Savior and Lord.

DECEMBER TWENTY-SIX

Read Proverbs Twenty-Six

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+26&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: To whom did God entrust the carrying forth of the message that Jesus was born? Who heard first that the promised Messiah, the Savior who would cancel the sin-debt of all who believe in Him, had arrived? Angels told the shepherds and shepherds checked the message’s validity, and then began sharing the news. Angels, the “highest” and shepherds, the “lowest” on the social rungs of status both declared Truth. Proverbs 26 wants truth to pass through wise communicators.

Father, speak through me.

DECEMBER TWENTY-SEVEN

Read Proverbs Twenty-Seven

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+27&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: “Never abandon a friend – either yours or your father’s…” (verse 10). Dare we let God remind us of someone feeling forgotten? Did someone send us a greeting we didn’t contact? Are there former neighbors, teachers, co-workers, church friends, who used to brighten the day for us or for our parents? Who might say, “I’m so glad you called”?

Father, help me remember people who have reached out to me; remind me of those I might bless for Your sake; and if I’m struggling with disappointment because it seems I’ve been forgotten, help me remember You love me unconditionally.

DECEMBER TWENTY-EIGHT

Read Proverbs Twenty-Eight

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+28&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Vs. 26: Several scriptures tell us, “The heart is deceitful above all things,”  and “lean not on your own understanding.” Instead, as Proverbs directs us, we are to “trust in the Lord with all y/our heart” (Pr. 3:5), or James says, “...if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God... and it will be given to him” (James 1:5). Going to God first for all things, including wisdom, should be our top priority.

O God, how timeless is your instruction; how slow we are to catch on.

DECEMBER TWENTY-NINE

Read Proverbs Twenty-Nine

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+29&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Did Solomon see a mother’s frustration over a child throwing “a fit”? He advises (vs17): “Correct thy son and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul” (KJV). Address these concerns: Is the child hungry? Hurt/uncomfortable/scared? Ignored? Insulted? Doubting he’s loved? Remember, abuse is sinful. Abuse reveals a heart’s wickedness. Abusive people need a heart change. Relationships thrive when gentleness reigns. Moving beyond bad tempers and selfishness indicates maturity and children deserve mature parents.

Father, help me, as Your child, “give You rest and delight.”

DECEMBER THIRTY

Read Proverbs Thirty

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+30&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: Agur’s outlook and processing are colored by his weariness. He may correctly assess his need to acquire wisdom, but in his weariness he stumbles stating, “there are three, no four…” on nearly every topic he addresses. It’s as if he starts stating something and someone says, “What about…?” and he acquiesces. His wisdom strikes me especially in vss. 5-9, and the inevitable consequence of anger in 33.

Father, refresh and equip us with Your truths so we faithfully proclaim and live Your truths.

DECEMBER THIRTY-ONE

Read Proverbs Thirty-One

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+31&version=NASB

Devotional Thoughts and Prayers: King Lemuel could poll counselors for governing advice. He could command a beautiful woman to become his queen. Instead, his mother’s wisdom and her example are his foundation. A woman of virtue is rarer than exquisite rubies, but a wise man recognizes her value. Virtuous women hope for a “king” worth marrying. Right choices preserve the next generation. Children need industrious, virtuous parents.

O King Eternal, as Your devoted subject, may my words and activities glorify You today and bless generations that follow.

GOOD FOR YOU…..

If you started in January, you read Proverbs through twelve times in one year. If you started “late,” keep reading until you’ve read Proverbs twelve times.

As you think back over what you learned from Proverbs, why not jot down the benefits you received by sticking to the discipline of taking counsel from reading and praying as you studied God’s Word? We’d love to receive a summary of how you benefitted.

If you decide you want to read through again, perhaps this time with a small group or members of your family, you may reorder a new copy of “Twelve Times Through” to jot down your thoughts again. You never know, what you write may become important to someone even after your earth life ends. But equally important, what you apply from Proverbs will make your life more beautiful as you serve the Lord in faithfulness.

We are eager to hear how your time studying in Proverbs has helped your life. You may email Paul at warder.p@gmail.com

and Margery at author.speaker4Him@gmail.com .

Thank you for “mining” in King Solomon’s writings to find directions for your life, just as we dug to find nuggets for ours.

We plan to offer other daily devotionals, so check online to see if we’ve been able to get another ready for publication that interests you.

Thank you for studying God’s Word and making the world a little better place for others as you applied its Truths. Keep Truth passing from one generation to the next, and help others “mine” for nuggets if you can. You, like us, are here to glorify the Lord through fellowship with Him and proclaiming Him to others.

For other Warder Books Available Online go to:

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=la_B00GPELE7I_B00GPELE7I_sr?rh=i%3Abooks&field-author=Margery+Kisby+Warder&sort=relevance&ie=UTF8&qid=1397496443

Short Stories:

Novels & Serials Coming Soon by Margery Kisby Warder

Elizabeth’s Journey, (Adapted from “Leaves That Did Not Wither”). This novel introduces “Elizabeth” as she’s trying to hold onto her humor and her faith in spite of the journey she has let love direct. Set in Victorian England and rural America, many of Elizabeth’s challenges parallel our own.

Elizabeth’s Prodigal, Albert, discovers he’s in for adventure and tougher than expected lessons when he finds his stepfather’s rules intolerable. Leaving seems logical, and it’ll answer some plaguing questions, if he lives long enough to get answers. Written for all ages, this could be a great “family read.”

Both 2014 “Elizabeth” novels include discussion guides.

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ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Paul R. Warder (D. Min.) spent his adult life serving as a pastor to congregations in four states and as a Christian school administrator when he was not pastoring. He volunteers to promote greater awareness of the persecuted Christians around the world, a ministry he pursued even while pastoring. One of his unique “tools” for communicating God’s truths while pastoring was to use drama to portray characters, especially during the weeks prior to both Christmas and Resurrection celebrations. He is sometimes willing to travel to speak in behalf of persecuted brothers and sisters and/or to proclaim Biblical truths through messages and dramas.

Frequently Paul and Margery worked together in programs within the congregations Paul served, but additionally, Margery taught, and sometimes wrote, curriculum for nearly all ages of “Bible students.”

In Paul’s retirement, he has encouraged Margery to devote more time to her passion for writing, which she had limited to the unclaimed moments of her life until then.

Margery has written hundreds of articles for newspapers and after extensive research began writing her historical fiction novels and other inspirational creations.. She loves to mix God’s truths with humor, believing God created both for His glory and man’s benefit. She believes Christian authors should use their writing as edifiers and missionaries to the reading world.

Paul and Margery have been married over four decades and are the parents of two married adult children who are involved in ministries. Paul and Margery are admittedly positively biased about their children’s families…as are most grandparents.

The Warders are planning other writing projects. To contact the Warders for speaking engagements or to comment about their work, please email Paul at warder.p@gmail.com

and Margery at author.speaker4Him@gmail.com .

Bringing Inspiration to Readers of All Ages

Because

Good Words Can Lead to Good Works

Table of Contents

Copyright

DEDICATION

Foreword

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

JULY

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

GOOD FOR YOU…..

Novels & Serials Coming Soon by Margery Kisby Warder

ABOUT THE AUTHORS