For a full description of the (Y3) reading plan, see the “About” page.
- What attributes of God’s character does this passage reveal?
- How does the passage point to Jesus?
- How should the truth of this passage change me?
- How do the events of today’s reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?
Prov. 27
“Be wise, my son, and bring my heart joy, so that I can answer anyone who taunts me.” (Prov. 27:11). I can hear God gently saying this to His children; to me. It is like the saying, “You may be the only Jesus somebody sees.” Both are exhortations to be mindful that, because we bear God’s name, people will judge Him based on how we live. That is a heavy thought.
I am reminded once again about that passage in Ezekiel that talks about how the Israelites profaned God’s name with their disobedient lives. They were not wise children. I know in my heart, however, that on my own I can do no better. Thankfully, though, God kept His promise from that passage. “I will place my Spirit within you and cause you to follow my statutes and carefully observe my ordinances.” (Ezek. 36:27). Does that make me perfect? No. However, it does allow my life to glorify God in spite of me.
Prov. 28
“Happy is the one who is always reverent, but one who hardens his heart falls into trouble.” (Prov. 28:14). There it is again – the need for intentional living. We do well to keep at the front and center of our minds an understanding of who God is. He is holy, righteous, and just. We cannot stand before Him and any opposition to Him will fail extravagantly. We are fools to try either. Yet He is also loving, patient, and full of mercy. He has done remarkable things for us because of this. When we reject, ignore, or grow complacent and take these truths for granted, it only leads to trouble. But when we remember, understand, and act on them, happy doesn’t even begin to cover our benefit.
Prov. 29
“The fear of mankind is a snare, but the one who trusts in the LORD is protected.” (Prov. 29:25). This is hard!! So often, human authorities in our lives seem to have such power over us. Governments, bosses, and even bullies have us believing they can destroy our lives if we don’t do as they say. This proverb reminds us that this is an illusion. We should obey our authorities, of course, but never at the expense of doing what is right. Fear of losing our freedom, possessions, job, or even our life will only cause us to turn away from the only one we should fear. And the sad truth is that when we choose such fear over trust in God, we end up losing what we fought to hold on to anyway. Fear of mankind is a trap, a lie, and a thief. Don’t fall for it!!