Where wisdom and life intersect……. Week 3

Day 11

Prov

erbs

7:1-

27Pr verbs

Ready: We need a spiritual awakening to carry out what we are learning in Proverbs. We need something deep inside us to change. We need to start treasuring God’s commands from the heart. Read verses 1- 5. These verses tell us to call wisdom our intimate friend. Intimacy with wisdom leads us to ignore the words of a seductress or seducer because we have treasured up God’s words in our hearts. Read: Read through these verses asking God to write them on your heart.

Reflect: “The father saw something. He wants his teenage son to see it too, so he can walk into adulthood fully aware. The father tells us three things about the strategies of sexual temptation: the approach of temptation (verses 6-13), the speech of temptation (verses 14-20), and the impact of giving in to temptation (verses 21-27).Who is involved? The guy, in this case, is one of “the simple.” We have seen the simple before (Proverbs 1:4, 22). A simple person, a petî – related to the Hebrew verb meaning “to be open” – this person is keeping his options open, he is stand-off-ish, uncommitted, still “exploring life,” we might say. So this particular simpleton is feeling restless early one evening and takes a walk. He’s curious. He’s heard about a certain part of town – or certain sites on the internet. So there he is, probably thinking, “I can handle this. I’m strong. And I need to see these things for myself anyway.”“Then a woman comes toward him,decked out like a prostitute, wily of heart.”Vs. 10-12, “Wily of heart” means, literally, “guarded of heart.” She is unguarded in her dress, revealing much. But she is guarded in her heart, revealing nothing. There are men and women who do not know what a relationship is. They have never experienced it. They can role-play a relationship, but they do not give their hearts away. Sex they give, but themselves they guard. This poor guy has no idea what he’s walking into.Vs. 16-18, “Only the rich owned furniture in their homes back in this world. So this guy thinks he’s hitting the jackpot. A beautiful woman, a great feast, a luxurious setting, exotic experiences are all just waiting for him. The Hebrew could be paraphrased and expanded, “Come, let’s saturate ourselves with love-making in all its forms, let’s enjoy ourselves with every act, all night long, slowly passing the night, no hurry.” But as one commentator points out,To have a full sexual relationship with somebody is to give physical expression to what is meant to be a covenanted relationship – that is, stable, faithful, permanent. To say physically, “I am giving myself to you,” while emotionally and spiritually holding back from covenanted commitment is in fact to live a lie – a split in the personality which is ultimately stressful and destructive.” Ray Ortlund Jr.Proverbs 7:19 says “For my husband is not at home;he has gone on a long journey.”My husband is not at home is kind of like satan tempting Eve in the garden. We always hope that our sin will not be found out, but verses 22- 27 make it clear that the sexual sin is usually found out. It will trap you, pierce you, and cost you your life.

Repent:Take time to confess, repent and renounce sexual sin.

Rejoice: Thank God for the Holy Spirit who is your helper and comes alongside you and helps you stay on the path of sexual purity.

The False Attractions of Adultery7:1 My child, keep my words    and store up my commandments with you;2 keep my commandments and live,    keep my teachings as the apple of your eye;3 bind them on your fingers,    write them on the tablet of your heart.4 Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,”    and call insight your intimate friend,5 that they may keep you from the loose woman,    from the adulteress with her smooth words.6 For at the window of my house    I looked out through my lattice,7 and I saw among the simple ones,    I observed among the youths,    a young man without sense,8 passing along the street near her corner,    taking the road to her house9 in the twilight, in the evening, at the time of night and darkness.10 Then a woman comes toward him,    decked out like a prostitute, wily of heart.11 She is loud and wayward;her feet do not stay at home;12 now in the street, now in the squares,    and at every corner she lies in wait.13 She seizes him and kisses him,    and with impudent face she says to him:14 “I had to offer sacrifices and today

I have paid my vows;15 so now I have come out to meet you,    to seek you eagerly, and I have found you!16 I have decked my couch with coverings,    colored spreads of Egyptian linen;17 I have perfumed my bed with myrrh,    aloes, and cinnamon.18 Come, let us take our fill of love until morning;    let us delight ourselves with love.19 For my husband is not at home;    he has gone on a long journey.20 He took a bag of money with him;    he will not come home until full moon.”21 With much seductive speech she persuades him;    with her smooth talk she compels him.22 Right away he follows her,    and goes like an ox to the slaughter,or bounds like a stag toward the trap23  until an arrow pierces its entrails.He is like a bird rushing into a snare,not knowing that it will cost him his life.24 And now, my children, listen to me,    and be attentive to the words of my mouth.25 Do not let your hearts turn aside to her ways;    do not stray into her paths.26 For many are those she has laid low,    and numerous are her victims.27 Her house is the way to Sheol,    going down to the chambers of death.

The Gifts of Wisdom8:1 Does not wisdom call,    and does not understanding raise her voice?2 On the heights, beside the way,    at the crossroads she takes her stand;3 beside the gates in front of the town,    at the entrance of the portals she cries out:4 “To you, O people, I call,    and my cry is to all that live.5 O simple ones, learn prudence;    acquire intelligence, you who lack it.6 Hear, for I will speak noble things,    and from my lips will come what is right;7 for my mouth will utter truth;    wickedness is an abomination to my lips.8 All the words of my mouth are righteous;    there is nothing twisted or crooked in them.9 They are all straight to one who understands    and right to those who find knowledge.10 Take my instruction instead of silver,    and knowledge rather than choice gold;11 for wisdom is better than jewels,and all that

you may desire cannot compare with her.12 I, wisdom, live with prudence,    and I attain knowledge and discretion.13 The fear of the Lord is hatred of evil.Pride and arrogance and the way of evil    and perverted speech I hate.14 I have good advice and sound wisdom;    I have insight, I have strength.15 By me kings reign,    and rulers decree what is just;16 by me rulers rule,    and nobles, all who govern rightly.17 I love those who love me,    and those who seek me diligently find me.18 Riches and honor are with me,    enduring wealth and prosperity.19 My fruit is better than gold, even fine gold,    and my yield than choice silver.20 I walk in the way of righteousness,    along the paths of justice,21 endowing with wealth those who love me,    and filling their treasuries.

Day 1

2 Prov

erbs

8:1-21

Pr verbsWhere wisdom and life intersect……. Week 3

Ready: The writer in the earlier seven chapters is a wise teacher or father instructing a child. In Proverbs 8, Wisdom is seen as a woman calling out for all to listen. Wisdom is revealed as the real authoritative teacher and is personified using this poetic device of a woman calling to make a vivid impact. Get ready to read this passage by focusing on Wisdom’s call.

Read: These verses have movement to them. V. 1-11 is Wisdom crying out to people, and she reveals the human need to acquire wisdom. Wisdom is willing to travel from the hills to the roads and then to the city gates in order that people may hear her. In verses 12-21 we see more how wisdom works in the world. Read through the passage and ask God to teach you about your personal need for wisdom and then allow Wisdom to teach you about the world around you.

Reflect: Verses 10 -11and 19 reveal that wisdom is better than wealth. Verses 18 & 21 also speak of wealth and reveal how financial benefits often accompany getting wisdom. Take some time to reflect on these verses, and ask God to speak into your personal financial situation.

Reread verses 12-14. Wisdom tells us in v.13 “The fear of the Lord is hatred of evil. Pride and arrogance and the way of evil and perverted speech I hate. “We take whatever we value. And Christ, speaking as Wisdom, is saying here that the people he blesses join him in fearing the Lord and hating pride and self-importance and sneakiness (verse 13), which are the very sins we gifted people are prone to. But wisdom has the patent on counsel and resourcefulness and insight and heroic strength (verse 14). Wisdom gives both strategies that succeed and the strength to carry them out and not quit in the face of hardship and opposition. Wisdom is practical. Wisdom works. Wisdom makes us powerful. But the wisdom of Christ belongs only to those who humble themselves, because they want to change and grow and make an impact for him.” Ray Ortlund Jr.

Repent: Reread verses 6-8. These verses tell us that wisdom speaks of noble things. In other words, the words that wisdom speaks are kingly and extremely valuable. Verses 7-8 shows us the contrast between righteous words and crooked and twisted words. Spend some time repenting for ways that your speech has not reflected wisdom recently.

Rejoice: Verse 17, “I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me.” Every step we take toward Wisdom she responds back to us. When we love Wisdom and seek her, we are met with an amazing response. Earlier verses even suggested that if we get wisdom we see financial benefits. Take some time to rejoice and thank God for the benefits of wisdom. Thank God that pursing wisdom is not some cold exercise that makes us analytical and critical. Wisdom calls to us, pursues us and then responds to us when we seek her.

Wisdom’s Part in Creation8:22 The Lord created me at the beginningof his work, the first of his acts of long ago.23 Ages ago I was set up,    at the first, before the beginning of the earth.24 When there were no depths I was brought forth, when there were no springs abounding with water.25 Before the mountains had been shaped,    before the hills, I was brought forth—26 when he had not yet made earth and fields,    or the world’s first bits of soil.27 When he established the heavens, I was there,    when he drew a circle on the face of the deep,28 when he made firm the skies above,    when he established the fountains of the deep,29 when he assigned to the sea its limit,    so that the waters might not transgress

his command,when he marked out the foundations of the earth,30 then I was beside him, like a master worker;and I was daily his delight,    rejoicing before him always,31 rejoicing in his inhabited world    and delighting in the human race.32 “And now, my children, listen to me:    happy are those who keep my ways.33 Hear instruction and be wise,    and do not neglect it.34 Happy is the one who listens to me,    watching daily at my gates,    waiting beside my doors.35 For whoever finds me finds life    and obtains favor from the Lord;36 but those who miss me injure themselves;    all who hate me love death.”

Day 1

3 Prov

erbs

8:22-

36Where wisdom and life intersect……. Week 3Pr verbs

Ready: This passage that you are about to read presents Wisdom as present and participating in creation alongside of God. Wisdom is emphasizing the biblical theology of creation as essential for understanding wisdom and the world. Ask God to speak to you today about His creation and wisdom.

Read: Verse 33, “Hear instruction and be wise,and do not neglect it.” Ask God to use the instruction from today’s text to make you wise. Think about reading today’s passage outside or looking outside of your window at nature. For many of us, nature is an important way that God speaks to us. Use this passage to draw you into the place where you are delighting in God’s created world.

Reflect: “Now Proverbs chapter 8 rises to a glorious crescendo over the profound happiness of wisdom. What is the paragraph saying? Wisdom was here first. We weren’t. Wisdom was God’s first creation. He wired wisdom into the cosmos as the inner logic of everything. So wisdom was how everything started and how everything still works. We’re born into this world long after things were set up so amazingly. What do we know? We don’t control our environment; we adjust to it. So wisdom is more than handy tips. Wisdom is the secret code to reality. And in the Bible it’s actually speaking to us, so that it isn’t a secret any more.” Ray Ortlund JrWhat’s the point? Two things. One, wisdom is external to us. The wisdom we need for our lives is not inside us; it’s outside us. There is a reason why we have ears on the outside of our heads. We’re not supposed to listen to ourselves. We have a lot to learn. God himself did nothing without wisdom. How can we do anything without it? And we have a good reason to listen to Christ’s wisdom. Here’s the reason.Two, wisdom is joyous over us. Wisdom is not a nag. Joy breaks out whenever wisdom is exercised. Verses 24-26 describe the pre-creation conditions that God shaped into the creation. Wisdom is saying, “When everything was still a chaotic mess, without form and void, God created me first to fix it. God considered me indispensable. So how about your life? Could I help with your mess?” And the one offering herself – but really, it’s Christ speaking – the one offering himself is joyous about his creation. He’s enthusiastic about his creation, he is exuberant, he is wholehearted. You have every reason to turn your life over to him and say, “Re-create me.” Ray Ortlund Jr.

Repent: Verse 35& 36, “For whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the Lord; but those who miss me injure themselves.“ The benefits of wisdom are life itself and favor, but to miss wisdom is injurious. Repent for any ways that you have been hurt because you have not found wisdom.

Rejoice: Reread verses 32-35. The verses say that blessed or happy are the people who have listened to Wisdom. When we pursue wisdom we find life and receive favor from God. Spend time thanking God for the benefits you are receiving as you pursue wisdom.

Where wisdom and life intersect……. Week 3

Day 1

4 P

rov

erbs

9:1-18

Wisdom’s Feast9:1 Wisdom has built her house,    she has hewn her seven pillars.2 She has slaughtered her animals, she has mixed her wine, she has also set her table.3 She has sent out her servant-girls, she calls    from the highest places in the town,4 “You that are simple, turn in here!”    To those without sense she says,5 “Come, eat of my bread    and drink of the wine I have mixed.6 Lay aside immaturity, and live,    and walk in the way of insight.”General Maxims7 Whoever corrects a scoffer wins abuse;    whoever rebukes the wicked gets hurt.8 A scoffer who is rebuked will only hate you;    the wise, when rebuked, will love you.9 Give instruction to the wise, and they will become wiser still;    teach the righteous and they will gain in learning.

10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.11 For by me your days will be multiplied,    and years will be added to your life.12 If you are wise, you are wise for yourself;    if you scoff, you alone will bear it.Folly’s Invitation and Promise13 The foolish woman is loud;    she is ignorant and knows nothing.14 She sits at the door of her house,    on a seat at the high places of the town,15 calling to those who pass by,    who are going straight on their way,16 “You who are simple, turn in here!”    And to those without sense she says,17 “Stolen water is sweet,    and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.”18 But they do not know that the dead are there,that her guests are in the depths of Sheol.

Pr verbs

Ready: “As we come to Proverbs chapter 9, we’re faced with a choice. We notice two houses, one on either side of the road, so to speak. On one side, a house stands open, with an elegant lady named Wisdom inviting us in. On the other side of the road, another house stands open, with a seductive lady named Folly inviting us in. Which way will we turn?The choice is obvious, of course. But for people like us, even this choice is not so easy. In theory, it should be simple. We’re often told today that all we need is the right information. Do the research on the internet, and then we’ll know what to do. But in reality, we’re running back and forth between these two houses all the time. The choice is clear enough, but we are complicated.” Ray Ortlund Jr.As you get yourself ready for today’s passage think about the image of the two houses.

Read: Verse 6 says, “Lay aside immaturity, and live,and walk in the way of insight.” Read today’s passage asking God to help you lay aside immaturity. This passage is divided into three sections with six verses in each section. The first and third section are similar. See if you can note those similarities as you read.

Reflect: “This section consists of two competing invitations, one from Wisdom and the other from Folly. Both are portrayed as women calling people to enter their houses. Wisdom invites the simple to eat of her life-giving food (vv. 1–12). Folly offers food that leads to death (vv. 13–18).” Reformation Study BibleWisdom prepares the meal, mixes the wine, sets the table and calls to both the high and low to come. She offers a feast eaten at a banquet. Folly invites her guests to eat stolen bread. She tells them that it is sweet. Those who respond to Folly’s invitation find themselves in hell with the other guests who have attended the foolish woman’s feast.

Repent: Verses 7-12 show the contrast between the wise and the scoffer. The wise man gains insight when you rebuke him, but if you spend time trying to rebuke a scoffer you will end up getting hurt. Rebuke a scoffer and it will backfire. Take some time and ask God to show you when you have been a scoffer. Rebuke here means to correct or convince. Repent of the times when you have not learned from the negative rebukes in your life.

Rejoice: Meditate on verses 10-11. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.11 For by me your days will be multiplied,and years will be added to your life.” Spend time thanking the Lord that there is a beginning point for you in terms of wisdom. Thank God for the benefits of wisdom. Wisdom multiplies your time when everything in the world seems to diminish and steal time from you. Rejoice that wisdom is adding years to your life during the time that we are studying this book.

Wise Sayings of Solomon10:1A wise child makes a glad father,    but a foolish child is a mother’s grief.2 Treasures gained by wickedness do not profit,    but righteousness delivers from death.3 The Lord does not let the righteous go hungry,    but he thwarts the craving of the wicked.4 A slack hand causes poverty,    but the hand of the diligent makes rich.5 A child who gathers in summer is prudent,    but a child who sleeps in harvest brings shame.6 Blessings are on the head of the righteous,    but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.7 The memory of the righteous is a blessing,    but the name of the wicked will rot.8 The wise of heart will heed commandments,    but a babbling fool will come to ruin.

9 Whoever walks in integrity walks securely,    but whoever follows perverse ways will be found out.10 Whoever winks the eye causes trouble,    but the one who rebukes boldly makes peace.11 The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life,    but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.12 Hatred stirs up strife,    but love covers all offenses.13 On the lips of one who has understanding wisdom is found,but a rod is for the back of one who lacks sense.14 The wise store up knowledge,    but the babbling of a fool brings ruin near.15 The wealth of the rich is their fortress;    the poverty of the poor is their ruin.16 The wage of the righteous leads to life,    the gain of the wicked to sin.

Where wisdom and life intersect……. Week 3

Day 1

5 Prov

erbs 10

:1-1

6Pr verbs

“Chapters 10–15 consist mainly of contrasts between opposites, as indicated by the conjunction “but” introducing the second line of most of these proverbs. This common literary device uses contrasting pairs such as “righteous” versus “wicked” and “wise” versus “fool.” Occasional grouping of sentences according to theme and form is evident in the book, a method that aids memorization but does not assist the interpretation of the mostly independent sayings. Each sentence has its own social setting and special aim. Much like folk sayings in our Western societies, some of the sayings have been separated from their contexts in order to provide concise, practical guidelines for living.” Reformation Study BibleReady: “The Lord does not let the righteous go hungry, but he thwarts the craving of the wicked.”(v.3) Meditate on this verse as you prepare for today’s readings. What we hunger for is an important spiritual drive. The Ten Commandments tell us not to covet anything that belongs to our neighbor. Craving and coveting put us in jeopardy, while hunger related to righteousness is met with the Lord’s provision. Evaluate your appetites today. Spiritual hunger for God is met with His filling, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,for they shall be filled.” But cravings for things other than God are often frustrated.

Read: Read through all of the verses. Then reread the verses, putting them in these categories…. Verses 1 & 5 on family relationships… Verses 2,4,5,15, & 16 on wealth and poverty……Verses 6,8,11,13, & 14 on the mouth and babbling.

Reflect: Family- Family relationships are important in the book of Proverbs. Verses 1 and 5 show that wisdom is an important part of child rearing. The Bible is full of stories about foolish children and the grief it brings their parents. Wealth & Poverty-A frequent theme in Proverbs is poverty.(v.4-5) Not poverty that comes from circumstances, but the poverty that is a result of laziness. In v.15 the wealthy see their money as their protection. If money is our protection then the poor are in big trouble. Verse 16 makes clear that the wicked, though they gain wealth or other things, do so only to sin. Those who are wise make it their aim to store up knowledge.(v. 14)Mouth & Babbling- These verses make it clear that the mouth can be used for blessing or babbling. V. 11 “The mouth of the righteous is fountain of life.” V. 8b “But a babbling fool will come to ruin.” Blessings spoken by the righteous are produce life. Downfall quickly follows the continual talking of the fool. A fool talks a lot but does not accomplish anything.

Repent: Verse12  is a very powerful verse. “Hatred stirs up strife,but love covers all offenses.” Hatred is a powerful word. Hatred creates friction in relationships. Love has the opposite impact as hatred. Lover covers over and smoothes over the very things that created hostility in the relationship. Hatred destroys relationship and Love promotes relationship. Repent for any ways that you have displayed hatred recently. Ask God to release the love that will cover your offense.

Rejoice: Spend some time thanking God and rejoicing about the power of love. Love’s ability to cover what hatred has inflamed is a real blessing. The New Testament alludes to this verse. 1 Peter 4:8 “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.”

Ready: Whoever pays attention to wisdom’s teaching is on a path that leads to life(v. 17) and the fear of the Lord extends your life (v.27). As you prepare to read this passage, ask God to release His life to you through these verses.

Read: As you read the text notice how many of these verses focus on lying, the mouth, and the tongue. 18 Lying lips conceal hatred,and whoever utters slander is a fool.19 When words are many, transgression is not lacking,but the prudent are restrained in speech.20 The tongue of the righteous is choice silver;the mind of the wicked is of little worth.21 The lips of the righteous feed many, but fools die for lack of sense.31 The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom,but the perverse tongue will be cut off.32 The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, but the mouth of the wicked what is perverse.

Reflect: Focus on what these verses say about a fool. (v. 21 & 23) A fool finds doing wrong to be like entertainment. Pursuing wrong is a pastime to a fool. This just shows how senseless and insensitive the fool really is. The fool would rather do wrong than do right even when it is detrimental to him. Like the fool the wicked find that what they have been trying to avoid actually happens. The wicked have a short life v. 27 and they can’t expect anything good. (v. 28)

Wise behavior brings enjoyment to the wise(23), and their hopes end with joy instead of disappointment (v. 28). The wise see their desires come to pass. Though the wicked get blown away the wise are established forever (v. 25) and can not be moved. (v. 30)

Repent: “The English words fool and folly come from the Latin follis, which means’ bellows.’ It also describes a person’s puffed-up cheeks. Follis indicates that a fool is a windbag, somebody full of air, but lacking in substance. Fools may look like giants, but when the wind is taken out of them, they shrink dramatically and reveal what they really are - pygmies.” Warren Wiersbe, Be SkillfullFools specialize in lying. They are windbags who use a lot of words and sin is abundant because of all of those words(v. 19). They get trapped in their words and in their lies. Fools lie, hate, slander, are worthless, lack sense and are perverse. Repent for lying and being a windbag.

Rejoice: The wise are careful with their speech (v. 19), and their tongue is valuable(v. 20). The wise bless others, feed others and bring forth wisdom for others. Thank God that through this study He is teaching you about wisdom . The LORD is focusing on your tongue, lying, and what you say because He wants to put you on a path of life. Pray through vs. 22, “The blessing of the Lord makes rich,and he adds no sorrow with it.” Take time to rejoice because of the blessing of the Lord that is coming to you through Proverbs.

17 Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life,but one who rejects a rebuke goes astray.18 Lying lips conceal hatred,    and whoever utters slander is a fool.19 When words are many, transgression is not lacking,but the prudent are restrained in speech.20 The tongue of the righteous is choice silver;    the mind of the wicked is of little worth.21 The lips of the righteous feed many,    but fools die for lack of sense.22 The blessing of the Lord makes rich,    and he adds no sorrow with it.23 Doing wrong is like sport to a fool,    but wise conduct is pleasure to a person of understanding.24 What the wicked dread will come upon them,    but the desire of the righteous will be granted.25 When the tempest passes, the wicked are no

more,but the righteous are established forever.26 Like vinegar to the teeth, and smoke to the eyes, so are the lazy to their employers.27 The fear of the Lord prolongs life,    but the years of the wicked will be short.28 The hope of the righteous ends in gladness,    but the expectation of the wicked comes to nothing.29 The way of the Lord is a stronghold for the upright,but destruction for evildoers.30 The righteous will never be removed,    but the wicked will not remain in the land.31 The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom,but the perverse tongue will be cut off.32 The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, but the mouth of the wicked what is perverse.

Where wisdom and life intersect……. Week 4

Day 1

6 Prov

erbs 10

:17-

32Pr verbs

Where wisdom and life intersect……. Week 4

Day 1

7 Prov

erbs 11

:1-1

5Pr verbs

Ready: Prepare for this text by humbling yourself. 1 Peter 5:6, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.” Pride and fools invite shame by lifting themselves up, but wisdom and humility allow for God to do the lifting. “Whenever you submit, whenever you place yourself under the sovereign God’s authority, seek His will,and discover His way you make yourself His ally.” Charles Swindoll, Living the ProverbsAs the wise sage says, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace; but wisdom is with the humble.” Humble yourself and invite wisdom to accompany you in your study of Proverbs today.

Read: Wisdom is not only personal. It impacts how you deal with your neighbors, (v. 1, 9, 13) Verse 1, “A false balance is an abomination to the Lord,  but an accurate weight is his delight.”Verse 9, “With their mouths the godless would destroy their neighbors,but by knowledge the righteous are delivered.”Verse 13,” A gossip goes about telling secrets,but one who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a confidence.”Wisdom impacts how you act in the city. (v. 10 & 11) Verse 10, “When it goes well with the righteous, the city rejoices;and when the wicked perish, there is jubilation.” Verse 11, “By the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.”And wisdom greatly impacts the course of a nation. (v. 14) Verse 14, “Where there is no guidance, a nation falls,but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”Read today’s verses and contemplate how wisdom guides and impacts the relationships with your neighbors, city and nation.

Reflect: Integrity and wisdom are companions. Integrity comes from a Hebrew word that means complete. It means to be ethically and morally straight. “Integrity guides the upright.” (v.3) which means their relationship to God and others is right and straight. The course for the wicked is the opposite, it is crooked, dangerous and destructive. Verses 5 & 6 repeat the same truth about the straight, ethical way of the righteous and wise. They also reveal that the wicked’s way is dangerous, but the peril comes from the wicked’s own hand. The wicked get entangled by their own wicked plans and fall into their own trap. Their evil has eternal consequences. Verse 7 tells us how they die and nothing results from their hopes, dreams and plans; it all comes to nothing. Reflect on wisdom’s straight way and the crookedness of wickedness.

Repent: Verse 12, “Whoever belittles another lacks sense, but an intelligent person remains silent.” Real wisdom impacts every encounter that we have with others. Reread the verses in the Read section. Repent of any way that wickedness has influenced your relationships with neighbors, your city, and your nation.

Rejoice: “When it goes well with the righteous, the city rejoices,”(v.10)“By the blessing of the upright a city is exalted”. (v. 11) “Righteous lives strengthen the community, while the wicked corrupt and overthrow it.” Reformation Study BibleSpend time blessing your city and ask Lord to use your life to impact your city.

11:1 A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but an accurate weight is his delight.2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace;    but wisdom is with the humble.3 The integrity of the upright guides them,    but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them.4 Riches do not profit in the day of wrath,    but righteousness delivers from death.5 The righteousness of the blameless keeps their ways straight,    but the wicked fall by their own wickedness.6 The righteousness of the upright saves them,    but the treacherous are taken captive by their schemes.7 When the wicked die, their hope perishes,    and the expectation of the godless comes to nothing.8 The righteous are delivered from trouble,

    and the wicked get into it instead.9 With their mouths the godless would destroy their neighbors,    but by knowledge the righteous are delivered.10 When it goes well with the righteous, the city rejoices;    and when the wicked perish, there is jubilation.11 By the blessing of the upright a city is exalted,    but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.12 Whoever belittles another lacks sense,    but an intelligent person remains silent.13 A gossip goes about telling secrets,    but one who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a confidence.14 Where there is no guidance, a nation falls,    but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.15 To guarantee loans for a stranger brings trouble, but there is safety in refusing to do so.

Where wisdom and life intersect……. Week 4

Day 1

8

Prov

erbs 11

:16-31

11:16 A gracious woman gets honor,    but she who hates virtue is covered with shame. The timid become destitute,    but the aggressive gain riches.17 Those who are kind reward themselves,    but the cruel do themselves harm.18 The wicked earn no real gain,    but those who sow righteousness get a true reward.19 Whoever is steadfast in righteousness will live,    but whoever pursues evil will die.20 Crooked minds are an abomination to the Lord,    but those of blameless ways are his delight.21 Be assured, the wicked will not go unpunished,    but those who are righteous will escape.22 Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout    is a beautiful woman without good sense.23 The desire of the righteous ends only in good;

    the expectation of the wicked in wrath.24 Some give freely, yet grow all the richer;    others withhold what is due, and only suffer want.25 A generous person will be enriched,    and one who gives water will get water.26 The people curse those who hold back grain,    but a blessing is on the head of those who sell it.27 Whoever diligently seeks good seeks favor,    but evil comes to the one who searches for it.28 Those who trust in their riches will wither,    but the righteous will flourish like green leaves.29 Those who trouble their households will inherit wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise.30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life,    but violence takes lives away.31 If the righteous are repaid on earth,    how much more the wicked and the sinner!

Pr verbs

Ready: Begin by meditating on this verse:“Those who are kind reward themselves, but the cruel do themselves harm.” Kindness is a virtue that repays itself. This verse is telling us that what rewards others in fact rewards us.

Read: Read today’s verses taking note of the words…gain…reward…delight…good…repaid. v.18 The wicked earn no real gain, but those who sow righteousness get a true reward.19 Whoever is steadfast in righteousness will live, but whoever pursues evil will die.20 Crooked minds are an abomination to the Lord, but those of blameless ways are his delight.21 Be assured, the wicked will not go unpunished, but those who are righteous will escape.23 The desire of the righteous ends only in good; the expectation of the wicked in wrath.30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, but violence takes lives away.31 If the righteous are repaid on earth, how much more the wicked and the sinner!

Reflect: Proverbs has a lot to say about wealth and about gain and reward. Nowhere do we see Proverbs speaking negatively about money. But the book does clearly speak out about greed. “The people curse him who holds back grain, but a blessing is on the head of him who sells it.”(v. 26)“This is about someone hoarding grain to drive up the price. And grain was no luxury. It was basic to their diet. So holding back grain was a way of controlling and manipulating people at their point of real need. Bruce Waltke, an expert on the Proverbs, defined the issue this way: “The righteous are willing to disadvantage themselves to advantage the community; the wicked are willing to disadvantage the community to advantage themselves.” Isn’t that why we put blessing on the head of our Lord? He disadvantaged himself to advantage us.” Ray Ortlund Jr.

Verses 24-25 speaks about generosity. These Proverbs show how those who give generously acquire more and those who withhold from others will find themselves in need. A generous person who gives will find his own resources enhanced and improved.“Life surprises us. The truth is, selfish people end up poor in every sense. And open-handed people get richer and richer in all the ways that count. If you don’t believe that enough that it redirects your money, look at Jesus. The word translated “one gives freely” can be more literally translated “one who scatters,” like scattering seed, throwing it around freely and widely, without paying attention to where every little seed goes. When Jesus was flogged by the soldiers, the whip had bits of metal and bone in the lashes so that it ripped his back open and flung bits of flesh all around. He scattered himself, he gave himself freely to all around, including you. And he has grown rich with your love back to him. That’s the secret to life. Selfishness is poverty. Generosity is wealth.” Ray Ortlund Jr.

Repent: Repent for withholding, hoarding and selfishness. Ask God to release generosity and to break the power of poverty.

Rejoice: V.18 “The wicked earn no real gain, but those who sow righteousness get a true reward.” Thank God that as you are studying Proverbs these weeks you are sowing righteousness. Rejoice that accompanying the pursuit of wisdom is the “true reward.”

Ready: As you prepare to read today’s passage, think about righteousness in this way. God has graciously entered into a covenant relationship with us as His people. Righteousness on our part involves the behavior and mindset that maintain that covenantal relationship with our God.

Read: Read today’s verses specifically focusing on the verses here and the contrast between righteousness and wickedness. V.3 No one finds security by wickedness,but the root of the righteous will never be moved. V.5 The thoughts of the righteous are just; the advice of the wicked is treacherous. V. 7 The wicked are overthrown and are no more, but the house of the righteous will stand. V. 10 The righteous know the needs of their animals,but the mercy of the wicked is cruel. V. 12 The wicked covet the proceeds of wickedness,but the root of the righteous bears fruit. V. 13 The evil are ensnared by the transgression of their lips, but the righteous escape from trouble. V. 21 No harm happens to the righteous,but the wicked are filled with trouble. V. 26 The righteous gives good advice to friends,but the way of the wicked leads astray. V. 28 In the path of righteousness there is life,in walking its path there is no death.

Reflect: The righteous are in a covenantal relationship with Yahweh. Because of that relationship, Yahweh is concerned for their security, fruitfulness, and their deliverance. The wicked with their self serving focus think that they are protecting their self interest, but in fact, what they find instead, is trouble.

Repent: “The words of the wicked are a deadly ambush,but the speech of the upright delivers them.”(v. 6)Righteousness and wickedness is seen in our speech. The wicked use their speech in destructive ways. They may conceal their wickedness, but the end result is a surprise attack that destroys the wicked. The righteous find that their speech in the end liberates them. Take some time to repent for ways that your speech has been wicked. Repentance involves conviction of sin, admission of wrong and then a turning away from the sin and a turning toward God. Ask God to show you how to turn from wicked speech to the upright speech that will deliver you.

Rejoice: Reread verses 10 & 28. A righteous man or woman considers the life of their animals. In big ways and small ways the righteous are always choosing the path that leads to life. Rejoice that God is teaching you about life and that as you walk this path there is no death. 12: 25 “Anxiety weighs down the human heart, but a good word cheers it up.” Allow today’s Proverbs to cheer you up.

Proverbs of Solomon12:1Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge,    but those who hate to be rebuked are stupid.2 The good obtain favor from the Lord,    but those who devise evil he condemns.3 No one finds security by wickedness,    but the root of the righteous will never be moved.4 A good wife is the crown of her husband,    but she who brings shame is like rottenness in his bones.5 The thoughts of the righteous are just;    the advice of the wicked is treacherous.6 The words of the wicked are a deadly ambush,    but the speech of the upright delivers them.7 The wicked are overthrown and are no more,    but the house of the righteous will stand.8 One is commended for good sense,    but a perverse mind is despised.9 Better to be despised and have a servant,    than to be self-important and lack food.10 The righteous know the needs of their animals,    but the mercy of the wicked is cruel.11 Those who till their land will have plenty of food,    but those who follow worthless pursuits have no sense.12 The wicked covet the proceeds of wickedness,    but the root of the righteous bears fruit.13 The evil are ensnared by the transgression of their lips, but the righteous escape from trouble.14 From the fruit of the mouth one is filled with good

things,and manual labor has its reward.15 Fools think their own way is right,    but the wise listen to advice.16 Fools show their anger at once,    but the prudent ignore an insult.17 Whoever speaks the truth gives honest evidence,    but a false witness speaks deceitfully.18 Rash words are like sword thrusts,    but the tongue of the wise brings healing.19 Truthful lips endure forever,    but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.20 Deceit is in the mind of those who plan evil,    but those who counsel peace have joy.21 No harm happens to the righteous,    but the wicked are filled with trouble.22 Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord,    but those who act faithfully are his delight.23 One who is clever conceals knowledge,    but the mind of a fool broadcasts folly.24 The hand of the diligent will rule,    while the lazy will be put to forced labor.25 Anxiety weighs down the human heart,    but a good word cheers it up.26 The righteous gives good advice to friends,    but the way of the wicked leads astray.27 The lazy do not roast their game,    but the diligent obtain precious wealth.28 In the path of righteousness there is life,    in walking its path there is no death.

Day 1

9 Prov

erbs 12

:1-2

8Where wisdom and life intersect……. Week 4Pr verbs

Where wisdom and life intersect……. Week 4

Day 20

Prov

erbs 13

:1-2

5Pr verbs

13:1A wise child loves discipline,    but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.2 From the fruit of their words good persons eat good things,    but the desire of the treacherous is for wrongdoing.3 Those who guard their mouths preserve their lives;    those who open wide their lips come to ruin.4 The appetite of the lazy craves, and gets nothing,    while the appetite of the diligent is richly supplied.5 The righteous hate falsehood,    but the wicked act shamefully and disgracefully.6 Righteousness guards one whose way is upright,    but sin overthrows the wicked.7 Some pretend to be rich, yet have nothing;    others pretend to be poor, yet have great wealth.8 Wealth is a ransom for a person’s life,    but the poor get no threats.9 The light of the righteous rejoices,    but the lamp of the wicked goes out.10 By insolence the heedless make strife,    but wisdom is with those who take advice.11 Wealth hastily gotten will dwindle,    but those who gather little by little will increase it.12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick,    but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life. 13 Those who despise the word bring destruction on

themselves,but those who respect the commandment will be rewarded.14 The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life,    so that one may avoid the snares of death.15 Good sense wins favor,    but the way of the faithless is their ruin.16 The clever do all things intelligently,    but the fool displays folly.17 A bad messenger brings trouble,    but a faithful envoy, healing.18 Poverty and disgrace are for the one who ignores instruction,but one who heeds reproof is honored.19 A desire realized is sweet to the soul,    but to turn away from evil is an abomination to fools.20 Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise,    but the companion of fools suffers harm.21 Misfortune pursues sinners,    but prosperity rewards the righteous.22 The good leave an inheritance to their children’s children,    but the sinner’s wealth is laid up for the righteous.23 The field of the poor may yield much food,    but it is swept away through injustice.24 Those who spare the rod hate their children,    but those who love them are diligent to discipline them.25 The righteous have enough to satisfy their appetite,    but the belly of the wicked is empty.

Ready: Solomon begins this section as he did Proverbs 1, “Hear, my child, your father’s instruction.” In 13:1 Solomon reminds the child that only a father can discipline a son. Real wisdom flows out of relationship and listening to instruction even when it is corrective. Begin today by praying about your relationship to your Heavenly Father and prepare your heart to love the discipline that He has for you.

Read: Today’s passage fits into four sections. 1.Verses 2-6/ desire and righteousness. 2.Verses 7-11/ wealth 3.Verses12-19/ desires realized. 4. Verses 20-25/ Destiny of the sinners vs. destiny of the righteous. Read these sections looking for these themes. Reflect: Meditate on verse 4,“The appetite of the lazy craves, and gets nothing, while the appetite of the diligent is richly supplied.” The shiftless want and want ,but never receive, but the desires of the hardworking are richly fulfilled. Also meditate on v. 12, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick,but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life.” Through these verses we see that desire is a blessing for those who are wise, but for the lazy and the wicked they are heartbroken and unfulfilled. “Having one’s desire gratified is itself a tree of life, but to enjoy that fruit one must first have a prior thirst for the sage’s teachings, which are a wellspring of life. The healthy appetite of the wise and righteous is rewarded with healing and life, but the sick appetite of the fool brings irremediable death and disgrace.” Bruce Waltke, The Book of ProverbsVerse 12 isn't talking about hope being postponed for a short time, but that this hope is so frustrated that the person becomes sick. In contrast, the hope fulfilled is a tree of life, which is the opposite of sick. The tree of life has fruit and a healthy future and longevity. Repent: Reread verses 13-14, “13 Those who despise the word bring destruction on themselves, but those who respect the commandment will be rewarded.14 The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life,so that one may avoid the snares of death.” “In light of the connection between the two verses, it can be inferred that the debt to be paid for despising God’s word (13a) is death (14b), and the reward for standing in awe of his inspired word (13b) is life (14a), the heart’s desire.” “The teaching of the wise by its straightforward style and by its moral excellence attracts people to drink from its life-giving truth. As a result they become aware of the concealed traps and are fortified to resist them.” Bruce Waltke, The Book of Proverbs .

Repent of your lack of discipline in regards to God’s Word.

Rejoice: Verses 4, 12, 19 & 25 instruct us about desire and appetite. When desire and appetite are in alignment with the Word of God and we are listening to the Father’s instructions those desires are satisfying,sweet and fulfilled. Thank God that He turns our desires around and as we diligently follow Him they turn from traps that ensnare us into a tree of life for us.