May 23, 2024
Read Joshua 3, Proverbs 18, 1 Corinthians 2
The proverbs in the Bible are wise sayings from Solomon. The word proverb means “probability.” We should realize that the sayings of Solomon are not promises, but rather wisdom that will probably come to pass. There are always exceptions of course, but in general we can take these statements to the bank.
Many of the proverbs in chapter 18 talk about a fool’s mouth and his behavior. A fool is an amoral person. “A fool’s lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating A fool’s mouth is his undoing, and his lips are a snare to his soul” v. 6-7. And then sometimes, not listening to someone will get us played as a fool too. “He who answers before listening— that is his folly and his shame” v. 13.
This next proverb is one I think the 24/7 mews media and everyone on social media should read… twice! “The first to present his case seems right, till another comes forward and questions him” v. 17. There is always this rush to get the story out or to be the first one to break a story, perhaps to put a certain spin on it. Culture loves it when we rush to judgment and say things that society agrees with even if it’s not true. We need to be careful and think through things before we teach, share, or even discuss them with others.
This last proverb is one from a recent sermon I used. “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit” v. 21. We have the power of life or death in our tongues. The choice is up to us as to which way we will use it. Remember this doesn’t mean always saying nice things to people or never making them mad. Sometimes we have to speak the truth in love to people so that we can try to warn them of going the wrong direction. What else do you see in these chapters? Do you have a favorite proverb that speaks to you most?
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DId God Really Say... 