2 Viewpoints

1 Kings 9 & 2 Chronicles 8

1 Kings 9:1-7(NLT) So Solomon finished building the Temple of the LORD, as well as the royal palace. He completed everything he had planned to do. 2 Then the LORD appeared to Solomon a second time, as he had done before at Gibeon. 3 The LORD said to him, “I have heard your prayer and your petition. I have set this Temple apart to be holy—this place you have built where my name will be honored forever. I will always watch over it, for it is dear to my heart.4 “As for you, if you will follow me with integrity and godliness, as David your father did, obeying all my commands, decrees, and regulations, 5 then I will establish the throne of your dynasty over Israel forever. For I made this promise to your father, David: ‘One of your descendants will always sit on the throne of Israel.’ 6 “But if you or your descendants abandon me and disobey the commands and decrees I have given you, and if you serve and worship other gods, 7 then I will uproot Israel from this land that I have given them. I will reject this Temple that I have made holy to honor my name. I will make Israel an object of mockery and ridicule among the nations

2 Chronicles 8:12-15(NLT) Then Solomon presented burnt offerings to the LORD on the altar he had built for him in front of the entry room of the Temple. 13 He offered the sacrifices for the Sabbaths, the new moon festivals, and the three annual festivals—the Passover celebration, the Festival of Harvest, and the Festival of Shelters—as Moses had commanded. 14 In assigning the priests to their duties, Solomon followed the regulations of his father, David. He also assigned the Levites to lead the people in praise and to assist the priests in their daily duties. And he assigned the gatekeepers to their gates by their divisions, following the commands of David, the man of God. 15 Solomon did not deviate in any way from David’s commands concerning the priests and Levites and the treasuries.

A great question we can ask about Kings and Chronicles is “why were the histories of the children of Israel recorded twice?”

I think that the answer is in the perspective of the leaders and kings actions in the books of Samuel and Kings where the perspective is that of God and how He sees what the kings and men do, and where their hearts are.  In Chronicles it is much more the picture from the historical standpoint of man to the things that the kings do.  When we read, we see motive from God’s viewpoint in the Samuel and Kings records. We see more of a historical view in Chronicles.  I am not a student of who wrote down the Chronicles, but scholars who are think that maybe one or two men wrote down the book after the return from Babylon, perhaps Ezra.  They wrote because it would give their people a history that maybe they did not know. And also to help to give legitimacy to their present kingdom after the captivity.  By emphasizing the faithfulness of God they were giving hope to the people that God would reestablish them in the land and as a kingdom.

Are you inspired by this history to be more trusting of God and His Word?

Kings has unique information that is not in Chronicles, and vice versa.   The information and perspective are different, and we need to read both books.  Also the Chronicles are considered to be the last books added to the Hebrew cannon of scripture and are last in their scrolls of books.  The reason for the first and second books of both is related to the size of a scroll that could be produced at that time, not to a discontinuity between the first and second books. 

-Tom Siderius

Reflection Questions

Do you feel it is important for us to read these records?

What perspective should we have on these historical records?

I hope and pray today that God is giving you more confidence in His faithfulness and care as we read through these OT records.

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Praise Yahweh All Mankind and All Creation!!

Psalm 134, 146-150

Psalms 146:1-5 (NLT) Praise the LORD!
Let all that I am praise the LORD.
2 I will praise the LORD as long as I live.
I will sing praises to my God with my dying breath.
3 Don’t put your confidence in powerful people;
there is no help for you there.
4 When they breathe their last, they return to the earth,
and all their plans die with them.
5 But joyful are those who have the God of Israel as their helper,
whose hope is in the LORD their God.

Who should we put our confidence in?

Psalms 147:3-6(NLT) He heals the brokenhearted
and bandages their wounds.
4 He counts the stars
and calls them all by name.
5 How great is our Lord! His power is absolute!
His understanding is beyond comprehension!
6 The LORD supports the humble,
but he brings the wicked down into the dust.

Is trust in God the essence of “faith”?

Psalms 147:11(NLT) No, the LORD’s delight is in those who fear him,
those who put their hope in his unfailing love.

In this verse we see the word “hesed” God’s unfailing love that we looked at yesterday.

Psalms 148:1-2(NLT) Praise the LORD!
Praise the LORD from the heavens!
Praise him from the skies!
2 Praise him, all his angels!
Praise him, all the armies of heaven!

Psalms 149:4(NLT) For the LORD delights in his people;
he crowns the humble with victory.

Psalms 150 Praise the LORD!
Praise God in his sanctuary;
praise him in his mighty heaven!
2 Praise him for his mighty works;
praise his unequaled greatness!
3 Praise him with a blast of the ram’s horn;
praise him with the lyre and harp!
4 Praise him with the tambourine and dancing;
praise him with strings and flutes!
5 Praise him with a clash of cymbals;
praise him with loud clanging cymbals.
6 Let everything that breathes sing praises to the LORD!
Praise the LORD!

From the “Worship Arts Conservatory”  https://worshiparts.net/

halal means to “shine (or flash brightly), boast, to praise, to act like a fool or madman”. Halal is used 165 times in the Old Testament and is usually translated as “praise.” The word halal is part of the larger word “Hallelujah” which is the combination of the word Halal (praise) and Yah (Yahweh).  Together they mean “praise Yahweh” or “praise the LORD”.

  • God is worthy of our praise.  The Bible calls us to praise over and over again – over 100 times with this word alone.
  • God is worthy of exuberant praise.  Halal means “to shine or flash.”  The word Halal does not paint a picture of a quiet and dignified reading of a psalm.  The word paints a picture of a bright flashing praise that draws everyone’s attention.  We should praise God in such a way as to draw attention, like a light flashing in the darkness.
  • God is worthy of our boasting.  Halal means “to boast.”  Our God is so great that we cannot help but boast in who He is.  Like a child boasting about how strong his father is, we should be so enthralled by the greatness of our father that we cannot help but boast about Him to those we meet.  (Jeremiah 9:23-24)
  • God is worthy of our foolishness.  Halal means “to act like fool.”  One of the greatest mistakes I make when praising God is to worry about what others may think.  Isn’t it interesting that the same word that is translated “praise” is also translated “fool” in other passages?

From the “Light of the World” website https://kaylened.wordpress.com/ we can see an explanation of how words are formed by letters which are pictures in the ancient languages.

The Hebrew letter הָ Hey/Hay originally looked like a person with Raised Arms

Representing to Behold, Look, Watch, Reveal, Show, as through a Window, What Comes From, Breath/Sigh of Awe

לַ Lamad looked like a Shepherd’s Staff . Representing Authority; to Shepard, Protect, Goad, Guide, Yoke, Bind, Learn, Teach

When a meaning is doubled in Hebrew it is called an Emphatic Duplication. The second ל Lamad in הָלַ–ל Hal-lal intensifies its Picture as the Ultimate Staff of staffs, Authority of authorities, or Tongue of tongues.

הָלַל Halal shows us what it means to Praise:

 Hey הָ = Arms Raised, to Behold, Reveal, Look, Window, Breath, The…

 Lamed לַ = Staff, Authority, Control, Rule, Prod, to Direct Toward, Tongue…

 Lamed לַ = Staff, Authority, Control, Rule, Prod, to Direct Toward, Tongue…

 Behold –

 the Authority – 

 of Authorities

Isn’t it very exciting how our Praise is to show God’s Light and Authority in what we do.

-Tom Siderius

Reflection Questions

  1. How can we change our worship or worship services to have more “praise” in them?
  2. What will you praise God for today? How might you do it with more “shine or flash”?
  3. Where, when, how, why might God want to see us “acting like a fool” as we boast about Him? What are you willing to try?
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God’s mercy (hesed) endures forever!!

2 Chronicles 6-7

Psalm 136

Psalms 136:1-9(NKJV) Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!
For His mercy endures forever.
2 Oh, give thanks to the God of gods!
For His mercy endures forever.
3 Oh, give thanks to the Lord of lords!
For His mercy endures forever:
4 To Him who alone does great wonders,
For His mercy endures forever;
5 To Him who by wisdom made the heavens,
For His mercy endures forever;
6 To Him who laid out the earth above the waters,
For His mercy endures forever;
7 To Him who made great lights,
For His mercy endures forever—
8 The sun to rule by day,
For His mercy endures forever;
9 The moon and stars to rule by night,
For His mercy endures forever.

(I quoted the above section in the NKJV version because of the familiarity of the phrase “His mercy endures forever” but encourage you to read it in a different version as the word “mercy” is translated many ways.)

The Hebrew word “hesed” is found about 250 times in the Old Testament.  It is translated “love and faithfulness,” “unfailing love,” “faithful love,” “steadfast love,” and “loyal love,” depending on the Bible version used.  It has a bigger concept than just God’s love or mercy.  His love for His people is an central and essential part of God’s character.  The core idea of this term communicates loyalty or faithfulness within our relationship. Hesed is closely intertwined with God’s covenant with His people Israel in the OT.  

We see this in our section of reading from 2 Chronicles today where Solomon is dedicating the Temple.  The Temple in the OT is the dwelling place of God, specifically at the holy of holies, in the ark of the covenant.  God’s “hesed” is in the perfect performance of His commitments expressed by the tablets that God gave Moses on Mt Sinai. 

2 Chronicles 6:7-11(NLT) Then Solomon said, “My father, David, wanted to build this Temple to honor the name of the LORD, the God of Israel. 8 But the LORD told him, ‘You wanted to build the Temple to honor my name. Your intention is good, 9 but you are not the one to do it. One of your own sons will build the Temple to honor me.’ 10 “And now the LORD has fulfilled the promise he made, for I have become king in my father’s place, and now I sit on the throne of Israel, just as the LORD promised. I have built this Temple to honor the name of the LORD, the God of Israel. 11 There I have placed the Ark, which contains the covenant that the LORD made with the people of Israel.”

After a dedication service in Chapter 6, in Chapter 7 we see where God approves and accepts the sacrifices made there by the people.  He does this by sending fire down, which we see as God’s approval of the sacrifice.  God’s fire and presence are put in this Temple building giving His presence to that place.

2 Chronicles 7:1-3(NLT) When Solomon finished praying, fire flashed down from heaven and burned up the burnt offerings and sacrifices, and the glorious presence of the LORD filled the Temple. 2 The priests could not enter the Temple of the LORD because the glorious presence of the LORD filled it. 3 When all the people of Israel saw the fire coming down and the glorious presence of the LORD filling the Temple, they fell face down on the ground and worshiped and praised the LORD, saying, “He is good! His faithful love endures forever!”

Think about the day of Pentecost at the start of the church that we are part of.  God’s fire came down and rested on each of the apostles showing God’s approval and acceptance of the sacrifice of Christ.  The holy spirit is given to those that follow Christ from that day.  We are the Temple of God’s building, the church of the body of Christ.  God’s enduring love is given to us with the same commitment and intensity as He has shown Israel in the OT.  Our relationship with God is based on the covenantal sacrifice of the blood of Christ which allows us into the place and presence of Him. 

Have a great day today with the mighty hesed of God watching over and keeping you in all you do!

-Tom Siderius

Reflection Questions

  1. What verses of Psalm 136 really stand out to you? Are there any surprising verses? What do you notice about God’s character?
  2. Where have you seen God’s hesed in Scripture? Where have you seen it in your lifetime? Are you confident it will endure forever?
  3. Are you living in the place and presence of God?
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A People for God

1 Kings 8 & 2 Chronicles 5

God’s covenant with His people is a continued theme throughout the Bible. It is confirmed with some of the greatest Old Testament leaders, such as Abraham, Moses, and David. Generations have been taught about God and all He has done for them. Though they have some faults, they have remained faithful to God as His people. The completion of the temple by Solomon further signifies a desire to worship God and be His people. After years of planning and construction the temple is finally used for its intended purpose and the glory of God fills the temple. In dedication, Solomon offers a prayer and addresses the people of Israel regarding the relationship between God and the people.

His prayer is a powerful plea for the LORD to remember His people and be their God. He begins by praising God and thanking Him for keeping His promises. Solomon prays that God will remain with them and hear their prayers. More importantly, he urges God to forgive them when they mess up. Solomon was wise enough to know that even if they tried their best they would sin and require God’s forgiveness. This applies to a variety of situations Solomon covers in his prayer, such as drought, famine, plague, war, and captivity. He argues that they have been God’s people for years and that He should continue to remember them for God’s glory. 

Then Solomon turns to the Israelites with him and requests that they keep their side of the covenant. Speaking to the people, Solomon says, “may your hearts be fully committed to the LORD our God, to live by His decrees and obey His commands” (1 Kings 8:61). God has fulfilled his agreement of the covenant in the past, so it is up to the Israelites to follow the covenant they agreed to. They must remain faithful to God to enjoy the benefits of being God’s people and having a hope for the future. There are many false gods that can be worshiped, but Solomon’s desire is that the LORD who brought their ancestors out of Egypt remains their God. 

That is easy to agree to in good times, but history has proven that is not always the case. There are numerous examples of the Israelites turning away from God for a period of time. Although Solomon’s reign was successful for the Israelites, they would not enjoy the same prosperity and unity for long. Solomon prayed that God be with them in all situations and advised the people to remain faithful to God. No matter what happens, wisdom suggests making a conscious decision to develop a relationship with God and be a people for Him.

-Josiah Railton

Reflection Questions

  1. What do you find in Solomon’s Dedication Prayer that would be wise to add into our prayers today?
  2. When did you last make a conscious decision to develop a relationship with God and be a person for Him? How is it going?
  3. Solomon was wise to know we would and will all need forgiveness. When have you veered off the fully committed and living by his decrees path? Have you experienced His forgiveness? What did that look like?
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Solomon’s Wealth

1 Kings 7, 2 Chronicles 4

1 Kings 7 briefly pauses the narrative on the construction of the temple and describes the palace buildings Solomon built for himself. These were designed with similar grandeur as the temple built for God. It is apparent Solomon was very wealthy based on the resources required for the temple and his own personal projects. This initially might seem contradictory to the thirty wise sayings in Proverbs that teach to “not wear yourself out to get rich” (NIV, Proverbs 23:4). However, it is evident that wealth was not Solomon’s primary goal as his focus was mainly on God—at least at this point in his life.

Earlier in the story, in 1 Kings 3, God appeared to Solomon and told him to “ask for whatever you want me to give you” (1 Kings 3:5). Solomon was given the opportunity to ask for anything, but he did not choose wealth. He did not “trust [his] own cleverness” (Proverbs 23:4) as the eighth saying in Proverbs 23 warned against, but rather desired wisdom from God to govern the people. God rewarded Solomon by granting him a “wise and discerning heart” as he asked for (1 Kings 3:12). Further, because God was pleased with Solomon’s wish, He also gave him “both wealth and honor” (1 Kings 3:13). Solomon sought wisdom, and wealth was generously provided to him by God. He did not sacrifice wisdom to pursue a love for money, and didn’t hoard his wealth for himself either. He chose to build a house for God before building his own palace. Although he was very wealthy, Solomon’s life aligns with the proverbs arguing against chasing money. 

The rest of Saying 8 in Proverbs 23 depicts the temporary nature of materialistic wealth. It states, “cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone” (Proverbs 23:5). No amount of wealth is permanent, and it can be removed or destroyed at any given time. Even with the significant amount of resources used to build the temple and palace they would not last forever. The Babylonians and King Nebuchadnezzar plundered the temple treasures (2 Kings 24:13), and eventually all the great structures Solomon constructed with his wealth were destroyed with the rest of Jerusalem in 586 BC (2 Kings 25:8-10). 

Solomon was wise in seeking wisdom first rather than riches, and he understood that money is not worth pursuing. Any resources given by God can then be dedicated back to Him and used for righteous purposes. Although Solomon was rich in resources, he was wealthy with wisdom too.

-Josiah Railton

Reflection Questions

  1. Is having wealth good or bad? Why? or When?
  2. What is the problem with chasing after money and wealth? Have you seen anyone get further and further from the Lord as they chased after money?
  3. What might it look like to put your trust in God and not in your finances?
  4. What do you want to be known for being rich in? (Money, wisdom, kindness, etc… – HINT: Money is not the correct answer.) What steps will you take today to make an investment towards that end?
  5. Why do you think Solomon built the temple before his palace structures? How could we follow his example? How can we use the resources God gives for righteous purposes?
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Application of the Wise Sayings

1 Kings 5-6, 2 Chronicles 2-3

Yesterday’s passage of Proverbs 22-24 offered thirty sayings of the wise to learn from and apply in life. As discussed in the devotion, it is a condensed list of rules to guide life. It was written through wisdom gained by experience of the author, or authors. The author of any guidance is important to consider as it would not be too wise to follow advice from someone if he or she did not live a life worth following in some way. Therefore, the source of the proverbs and wise sayings should be analyzed to determine if they are credible. The author of Proverbs is often largely attributed to Solomon, though he likely had input from others. Fortunately, Solomon is known for his wisdom, and some of his life stories are described in the books of Kings and Chronicles. These stories can be read and analyzed to see how Solomon might have developed his wise sayings, how he applied them in his life, and if he is a good example to follow. 

The chapters for today focus on Solomon building a temple for God. Although this is just a glimpse of Solomon’s life, there are still aspects of the thirty wise sayings included. While several of the sayings are at least a little relevant, two of the sayings are most prominent in these chapters: Saying 6 and Saying 21. 

Saying 6 in Proverbs 22:9 describes how skilled workers work for kings. This is directly demonstrated in the construction of the temple, as King Solomon uses the help of Huram-Abi who is described as “a man of great skill,” and “experienced in all kinds of engraving and can execute any design given to him” (NIV, 2 Chronicles 2:13-14). The temple design was elaborate and Solomon wanted the best for God. Even getting the wood for the temple required workers “skilled in cutting timber” (2 Chronicles 2:8). It is no surprise that kings want the best and have the resources to get it. Therefore, this saying is valid and reputable. Developing a skill is beneficial to the contribution of society and can help increase one’s influence. 

The second saying relevant to the building of the temple refers to building a house. The temple is designed as a house for God, though He does not physically dwell in it as people do in a home. Proverbs 24:3-4 states, “By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures”. Solomon was able to use the wisdom he received from God to build a great house for God. It is a house filled with the most beautiful treasure imaginable to those with the knowledge to seek it—God. A meaningful relationship with God can only be attained by gaining wisdom as Solomon suggests. 

Building a temple for God was one of Solomon’s greatest achievements in his life. This project alone demonstrates his wisdom and credibility along with many other parts of his life. With Solomon’s experience, and the wisdom he received from God, his written guidance in Proverbs should be followed.

-Josiah Railton

Reflection Questions

  1. How wise are you? What evidence in your life would support your answer?
  2. How is wisdom gained?
  3. What wisdom from Proverbs stands out to you as something you would benefit from listening to and following better?
  4. How can you work at applying what you read in Scripture to your own life?
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Sayings of the Wise

Proverbs 22-24

There have been countless attempts to condense all the complexities of life into a few simple and concise rules to follow. If the steps are practiced effectively then success will be rewarded. Variations of these lists are reiterated over time through experience of generations adapting to changing societies. Each one tries to improve upon the previous list, but there are often more similarities than differences. While there are some noticeable differences between many of these lists and Proverbs 22-24, as a whole these chapters are simply a list of sayings meant to be followed for success. It certainly wasn’t the first list nor last, but it accomplishes the same goal, with the added benefit of being God’s trusted word. 

These thirty sayings are introduced in chapter 22, and it is encouraged for all to hear and pay attention to. “Counsel and knowledge” are provided with a reward of increasing trust in God along with honesty and speaking the truth (NIV, Proverbs 22:17-21). They don’t necessarily promise to bring worldly success, though many do, but instead offer the opportunity to further develop a relationship with God. These sayings align with seeking wisdom. Following them will result in the growth of truthful actions, trust, and an increased ability to love God and others. 

Each of the sayings provide guidance on some aspect of life, though there is overlap. Some of the sayings teach how to interact with others and develop meaningful relationships. For example, avoid exploitation, consider the perspective of others, and don’t be associated with people who will only cause trouble and be a bad influence. Other sayings claim that righteous character and behavior will be rewarded socially, and even if there is no benefit in today’s society God will reward those in the future. Similarly, the opposite is warned against. Another common theme is to not get caught up in chasing money or other common indicators of success, as they aren’t as meaningful as they may initially seem. Lastly, these sayings teach the value in learning and the willingness to be taught.

Study the sayings of the wise and learn from them. These thirty sayings are included in the book most known for wisdom, so if wisdom is loved these sayings should be considered in daily life. The increase in wisdom associated with applying these chapters will encourage genuine care and love for others through truthful words and actions. Further, trust in God is strengthened by wisdom in knowing how God defines success. Although it is still just a condensed list, follow these sayings and success will naturally be rewarded.

-Josiah Railton

Reflection Questions

  1. How is the wisdom found in Proverbs 22-24 similar to wisdom literature from other times and cultures? How is it different from what “the world” today says is wise and profitable for success?
  2. In your relationships with others which of these sayings of the wise would you benefit from focusing on this week?
  3. How can you work towards the ultimate success of having a better, growing relationship with God?
  4. Which verses would be great on your refrigerator, desk, bathroom mirror or bedside table for the next month? Post them.
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Love is the Greatest Motivator

Proverbs 19-21

Every chosen action is a result of a complex combination of a variety of motivations, but each one can be traced back to a source of love. Some form of love is at the base of every decision, as people prioritize what they love most. The recipient of love could be God, oneself, another person, a physical object, or even intangible concepts such as happiness or power. Loving God is a common commandment and suggested motivator throughout the Bible, but not every other object or concept is as desirable to love from a biblical perspective. Wisdom is needed to differentiate between what should be loved, and what shouldn’t be, which will ultimately have a great impact on what decisions are made and what actions are taken. 

Proverbs is known for describing wisdom and contains numerous examples of valid sources of love and others that should be avoided. Wisdom itself is a great concept to love according to the Bible, as Proverbs 4:7 commands to “Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding” (NIV). Wisdom is so valuable that it is worth sacrificing all else. In other words, the love for wisdom should be greater than the love of money, material resources, fame, power, or anything else. All those concepts and objects are discouraged as primary sources of love throughout Proverbs. 

While there are many things not worthy of love, Proverbs and the rest of the Bible offer several suggestions to give one’s love to. Most notably, aside from God, are other people. The command to love others is present throughout the Bible, but it is even more meaningful and impactful than simply being nice to one another. Not only is some form of love at the root of all motivation, but the recipient of that love is commonly love itself. People love to be loved. God designed people to need to be loved, and Proverbs 19:22 claims that “what a person desires is unfailing love”. Many people are willing to sacrifice a lot to be loved. It is the greatest motivator and is often the force causing many actions and behaviors. While it is still beneficial to simply be kind to a neighbor or provide for the physical needs of others, genuinely loving others requires providing what is needed most—love. Building a strong and unselfish relationship on unfailing love increases the impact one can have in the lives of others. It makes it easier to spread God’s word and His Kingdom. 

As with all things, it might require some sacrifices to love others effectively. However, that isn’t a problem if love for others is greater than the love of whatever is put aside. Sacrifices will always be made for what is loved the most. Therefore, carefully prioritize what is loved. Love God and love others to use the natural motivation to encourage godly choices, behaviors, and actions to have the greatest impact in the world.

-Josiah Railton

Reflection Questions

  1. “Some form of love is at the base of every decision, as people prioritize what they love most.” – What do your decisions show that you love most?
  2. What do you WANT to love most? What is getting more of your love now than it deserves?
  3. What sacrifices have you already made for what you love most? What additional sacrifices might be ahead? What sacrifices have others made for you?
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Whatever You Do

Proverbs 16-18

In the book of Proverbs, we find a treasure trove of wisdom that has the power to transform our lives. Chapter 16 is no exception, offering profound insights that speak directly to our hearts and the way we navigate this world. Today, let us take a closer look at verse 3, which encourages us to commit our work to the Lord, knowing that He is the one who establishes our plans.

In a society driven by achievement and self-reliance, it is easy to fall into the trap of thinking that success is solely dependent on our own abilities and strategies. We may spend countless hours meticulously crafting our plans and pursuing our goals, forgetting that we are called to acknowledge God’s sovereignty and seek His guidance in all that we do. However, Proverbs reminds us that true success comes from surrendering our efforts to the Lord.

Committing our work to the Lord involves recognizing that He is the ultimate authority and the source of all wisdom and understanding. It requires us to approach our tasks, aspirations, and dreams with an attitude of humility, acknowledging that apart from Him, we can do nothing of lasting significance. We are called to submit our plans to His will, seeking His guidance and trusting that He will align our desires with His purposes.

By entrusting our work to God, we are liberated from the burden of self-reliance and the anxiety that often accompanies it. We can rest in the assurance that the Lord, in His infinite wisdom and love, will establish our plans. This does not mean that we will be exempt from challenges or difficulties along the way, but it does mean that God will faithfully guide us, direct our steps, and use our efforts for His glory.

When we commit our work to the Lord, we invite Him to be an active participant in every aspect of our lives. We open ourselves up to His guidance and leading, allowing Him to shape our plans according to His perfect will. Our work becomes an opportunity to partner with God, to be instruments through which His purposes are fulfilled in this world.

As we reflect on Proverbs chapter 16, may we be encouraged to surrender our ambitions, our dreams, and our work to the Lord. Let us seek His wisdom, trust in His guidance, and find peace in knowing that He is the one who establishes our plans. By entrusting ourselves to Him, we embark on a journey of purpose and fulfillment, where our lives become a testament to His grace and faithfulness.

-Austin Kizer

(originally posted for Seek GrowLove on May 16, 2023)

Reflection Questions

  1. In what areas of your life would it be wise to surrender your plans to the Lord? What does that look like? What thoughts and feelings does it create? Pray for help in doing so.
  2. What does true success look like? Is it possible apart from God and His plans?
  3. What will God reveal to you about Himself in your Bible reading today?
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The Real Right Thing

Proverbs 13-15

Have you ever found it easier to see the right thing for someone else to do than for yourself?  There is a reason for that.  We often times can tell someone what to do but can’t seem to do it for ourselves.

For example:

25 A truthful witness saves lives,
But he who utters lies is treacherous

In this proverb we see that lying only brings destruction.  We ourselves hate being lied to.  We hate seeing people live a lie. We know how much damage it can do.  We know this but I bet if I asked if you have ever lied or lived a lie you would probably say yes.  I bet if I asked you if you knew how to correct that in someone else’s life you would have an answer almost immediately.  It is so easy to see the foolishness in someone else.  It’s easy to know what to do to correct their wrong behavior.  But I bet it is harder to correct in yourself.  Why can we see the answer to foolishness in others easily but have such a difficult time correcting it in our own lives? 

   The answer is we have no emotional ties to their sin.  We won’t have to deal with the consequences of trying to correct our behavior.  I can tell you how to correct your behavior all day long because I don’t have to do it.  I don’t have to deal with the mess.  But if I have to correct a sin I know what that will take, and often times I don’t want to deal with the pain and hurt that comes with going back and fixing issues like lying bring about.

Read Proverbs 14 and see if you can see any foolishness in your life that you need to correct.  Are their verses in this chapter that really resonate with you?  Can you see the foolishness in those verses?  Can you recognize the wisdom it takes to realize that some of these verses apply to you.  Are you willing to recognize the wise thing to do and apply it to your life?  Your foolish ways become harder and harder to stop the longer you wait. 

The very first verse illustrates this perfectly:

The wise woman builds her house,
But the foolish woman tears it down with her own hands.

Are you tearing your life apart by not recognizing wisdom?

I’m praying for you.

Andy Cisneros

(originally posted here on August 15, 2017)

Reflection Questions

See Andy’s suggestions and questions in the last full paragraph.

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