The Power of a Brave “Yes” in Motherhood
Heart Happy
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My first year of homeschool was in an apartment in Northern California. One five-year-old boy did his best to write neatly in the workbook pages. The following year, when we moved to Montana, I taught him to read along with his three-year-old sister. I thought the years were so busy. They were. Years of rushing out the door, loading up the van, rushing to t-ball, dance class, or the library, and chasing my youngest one, a toddler who liked to head out on his own without looking back. The days looked ordinary. But when I consider them now, I realize they were the beginning of a journey that has been anything but the norm.
When I first started homeschooling, my family was small, and my worldview was tucked safely inside the quiet comfort of our daily phonics lessons and history read-alouds. I had my neat little plans, my manageable schedule, and a comfortable boundary around our family life.
God, however, had much bigger plans for our family and ministry. He started by placing specific dreams in my heart. At the time, I believed that following those dreams meant I was taking time and attention away from my kids. Now I know those callings weren’t just meant for my own personal transformation. They were designed to be a living, breathing training ground for my children.
I should have known that following God took me out of my comfort zone.
When we read the Bible, we see that over and over again. Joy doesn’t come from sitting back and waiting for the good things of God to drop into our laps while we take the path of least resistance. True blessing comes from actively choosing to follow God’s Word, paying attention to the stirring within, and stepping out in obedience … even with shaky knees and the future feels incredibly scary.
Tracing the Path of Obedience
Looking back over the decades, my journey of faith became defined not by a single moment of grandeur, but by four massive, life-changing responses to God’s quiet prompting. Each one required a brave “yes” when a “no” would have been much easier:
The First Yes: Stepping up to serve alongside John in children’s church
We were young, our family was just beginning, and we had no idea what we were doing. But saying yes to serving the local church together set a baseline of ministry for our children to witness from their earliest days.
"As rather, serve one another humbly in love." — Galatians 5:13
Is God calling you to serve others?
- Look for immediate, local needs: You do not have to wait for a grand ministry invitation. Look around your home church for areas where volunteers are stretched thin, whether that is rocking babies in the nursery or greeting families at the door.
- Include your children in the preparation: Let your kids see you preparing your heart and your supplies before you serve. When they see you cutting out Sunday school crafts or praying over a lesson at the kitchen table, they learn that serving is a natural part of family life.
- Focus on relationships over execution: Do not worry about delivering a flawless performance. Focus instead on loving the children and families right in front of you. You show others the tangible love of Jesus through your consistency.
The Second Yes: Helping to open the doors of a local crisis pregnancy center
The next calling was completely outside my comfort zone, but God broke my heart for what broke His, and my children watched our family lean into the pro-life mission with real hands and feet.
"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute." — Proverbs 31:8
Is God calling you to love those in crisis?
- Educate your heart on the need: Take time to research the real struggles vulnerable mothers face in your community. Understanding their needs firsthand turns abstract sympathy into active, prayerful compassion.
- Start with physical donations: Gather your children and shop together for practical items like diapers, baby blankets, and formula to donate to a local center. This bridges the concept of ministry with tangible, everyday obedience.
- Commit to consistent prayer: Gather your family to pray regularly for the staff, the volunteers, and the frightened mothers who walk through those clinic doors, asking God to give them courage and hope.
The Third Yes: Daring to follow God by developing my hidden gifts and talents
I wrestled with immense self-doubt about whether I could ever write anything worthy of publication, but that step of obedience eventually led to a decades-long ministry and to authoring dozens of books. My kids grew up seeing that when God gives a gift, He expects you to brave the vulnerability that comes with using it.
"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms." — 1 Peter 4:10
Is God calling you to use your talents?
- If you have a talent, carve out small blocks of dedicated time. You do not need hours of uninterrupted silence. Start by setting aside 15 or 30 minutes in the early morning or during nap times to practice your craft or gift.
- Silence the voices of self-doubt with Truth. When feelings of inadequacy surface, remind yourself that God qualifies those He calls. Your responsibility is simply to be faithful with the seed He has planted.
- Share your journey openly with your kids. Let your children see you try, fail, and try again. When they watch you handle the vulnerability of sharing your work, they learn how to handle their own future callings with grace.
The Fourth Yes: Opening our hearts completely to adoption
I didn’t wake up one day with a grand, strategic plan to adopt seven children. I didn’t have the finances mapped out, and I didn’t have the time or ability. I simply opened my heart to the Lord, and He beautifully inserted those seven children right into it.
"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress..." — James 1:27
- Cultivate an intentional culture of hospitality. Practice opening your home and your heart to people who are different or in need of community. A welcoming home prepares the hearts of your biological children for the adjustments of adoption.
- Lean into a supportive community. Do not try to walk the path of foster care or adoption alone. Build a network of trusted friends, mentors, and fellow adoptive families who can offer wisdom, meals, and prayer when the transitions get heavy.
- Surrender your timeline and control. Adoption is a journey filled with systemic delays, emotional hills, and unexpected valleys. True peace comes when you release your expectations to the Lord, trusting His perfect timing for your family.
Cultivating a Heart Ready to Hear
How do you discern that whisper? How do you recognize the unique call God has for your life when the world is shouting for your attention? It doesn’t happen in the middle of a frantic schedule. It happens in the quiet, unhurried white space before the morning rush begins.
As author Elisabeth Elliot once noted, “Does it look like everything is falling apart? God is putting it together. Just be still and know that He is God.” In that stillness, we find the margin needed to cultivate a heart that is truly ready to listen.
To cultivate a heart ready to hear, focus on these intentional, daily steps:
- Sit daily with your Bible: Go to God’s Word for real direction, not just for a quick bit of daily inspiration or a “happy thought” to get you through the afternoon. Make it a non-negotiable appointment to sit at His feet.
- Seek to understand His heart: Align your personal desires with His kingdom. Pray the terrifying but beautiful prayer: “Break my heart with the things that break yours.” Let your heart stir with compassion for “the least of these.”
- Allow Him to adjust your attitude: Let Him shape your spirit, silence your anxieties, and fill you with His unconditional love before you face the morning chaos.
Living as the Blueprint for Our Children
Whatever your unique calling is—whether it leads you across the ocean or simply across the street to a neighbor in need—your children need to watch you actively follow it. Our words matter, but our lives are what truly get duplicated in our kids’ hearts.
In his classic writings, Andrew Murray emphasized that the example of parents in their daily walk with God leaves a deeper impression than any spoken lesson. Our children are natural observers, and they quickly learn whether our faith is a Sunday routine or the driving force behind our biggest life choices.
When we step out in faith, we are modeling a living theology. We are showing our children that God is trustworthy, that His plans are worth our comfort, and that obedience brings a deep, lasting joy that the world simply cannot replicate.
Following God in total obedience today creates the exact training ground our kids need to find the courage for their unique callings tomorrow. Let’s stop hiding behind the safety of our comfort zones. Let’s be the kind of parents who inspire our children to seek the Lord wholeheartedly by living brave, godly, obedient lives right in front of them.
Walk It Out
Are you tired of running on the hamster wheel of a busy schedule, only to feel empty at the end of the day? In Walk It Out, Tricia Goyer shares a truth that changes everything for weary moms: true fulfillment does not come from staying inside our comfort zones. It comes from stepping out in a brave, shaky-kneed “yes” to God’s Word.
Through honest stories of homeschooling, adoption, and ministry, Tricia shows how actively obeying Scripture—even when it feels scary—transforms your own heart and creates a powerful, living blueprint for your children. When you surrender your neat little plans and embrace God’s big dreams for your family, you will discover a deep, lasting joy that a frantic world simply cannot replicate. Stop hiding behind what is safe and start walking out your faith out loud.
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
May 25
2 Chronicles 8, I Kings 9:15-28, I Kings 10:1-29, 2 Chronicles 9:13-28, 2 Chronicles 1:14-17
The Golden Reign of Solomon
In today’s readings, we delve into the reign of King Solomon, exploring his immense wealth, fame, and the wisdom that defined his leadership over Israel. Remember when God asked Solomon what he desired most, and Solomon chose wisdom? His humble request pleased God, who granted him unparalleled wisdom along with great riches and honor.
Solomon’s Accomplishments
Building and Rebuilding
- Temple and Palace: Solomon dedicated 20 years to constructing the temple and his palace.
- Rebuilding Towns: He rebuilt towns given by King Hiram and settled Israelites there.
- Conquering and Developing: Solomon conquered towns, rebuilt others, and constructed supply centers.
- Jerusalem and Lebanon: “He built everything he desired in Jerusalem and Lebanon and throughout his entire realm.” (2 Chronicles 8:6)
- Labor Force: Conscripted former enemies into his labor force.
- Military Assignments: Assigned Israelites as fighting men and commanders.
- Religious Duties: Offered sacrifices, assigned priests and Levites to their duties, and led people in praise.
Wealth and Trade
- Maritime Ventures: Solomon’s ventures extended to the Red Sea, where King Hiram’s ships brought back wealth from distant lands, including almost seventeen tons of gold (2 Chronicles 8:18).
The Visit of the Queen of Sheba
In 2 Chronicles 9, the Queen of Sheba visits Solomon, intrigued by his fame. She tests him with challenging questions, and Solomon answers them all with ease. Impressed by his wisdom and wealth, she praises God for placing Solomon on the throne:
“How happy your people must be! What a privilege for your officials to stand here day after day, listening to your wisdom! Praise the LORD your God, who delights in you and has placed you on the throne as king to rule for him. Because God loves Israel and desires this kingdom to last forever, he has made you king over them so you can rule with justice and righteousness.” (2 Chronicles 9:7-8)
Solomon’s Wealth
Solomon’s annual revenue included 25 tons of gold, in addition to income from merchants and traders. He created shields and a majestic throne, and his trading ships brought back gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks. Silver was as common as stones in Jerusalem.
The Fulfillment of God’s Promise
These passages highlight the fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel, as stated in Deuteronomy 28:1, 10:
“Now it shall come to pass, if you diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God, to observe carefully all His commandments which I command you today, that the LORD your God will set you high above all nations of the earth… Then all peoples of the earth shall see that you are called by the name of the LORD, and they shall be afraid of you.”
Word of the Day: Prosper
Definition: To succeed in an enterprise or activity, especially to achieve economic success.
Wisdom and Blessings
Solomon’s reign exemplifies how wisdom and humility before God lead to prosperity and blessings. His kingdom thrived, and he gained wealth and fame due to his wisdom and dedication to God.
Key Verses:
- Proverbs 22:4: “Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.”
- Matthew 6:33: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
- Philippians 4:19: “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
When we seek God above all, He may bless us unexpectedly. However, our focus should not be on the blessings themselves, but on honoring God and trusting Him to provide as He sees fit.
Obedience and Prosperity
Obedience to God’s commands is crucial for a prosperous and fulfilling life. As Deuteronomy 5:33 states:
"Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess."
Humility and obedience to God are key to experiencing His blessings. By prioritizing our relationship with Him, we align ourselves with His will and purpose for our lives.
Reflect on Solomon’s reign and the importance of seeking wisdom, humility, and obedience in your own life. How can you apply these principles to experience God’s blessings and prosperity?
May 26
I Kings 4, Psalm 72, Psalm 127
Abundance in the Land
In today’s readings, we explore the reign of King Solomon, focusing on his officials, governors, and the remarkable peace and prosperity of his kingdom.
1 Kings 4 details Solomon’s officials and governors, who managed provisions for his vast kingdom. Each of the twelve district governors ensured the kingdom had ample food for one month a year. The people of Judah were numerous and content, enjoying plenty to eat and drink. Solomon’s rule extended from the Euphrates River to Egypt, and neighboring kingdoms paid him tribute. “God gave Solomon very great wisdom and understanding, and knowledge as vast as the sands of the seashore” (1 Kings 4:29). Solomon composed 3,000 proverbs and 1,005 songs and spoke with authority on various subjects, attracting people from all around to hear his wisdom.
Psalm 72 is a prayer for the king, asking God to grant the king a heart for righteousness, a hand for justice, and compassion for the poor and needy. This psalm, attributed to either Solomon or David, reflects a heart of humility and recognition that all good things come from God.
Psalm 127, a song of ascents written by Solomon, emphasizes that everything we have is from the Lord. It highlights the blessing of children, describing them as a gift and reward from God.
Word of the Day: Abundance
Definition: Ample quantity, affluence, and wealth, plentifulness.
Praise God in Times of Plenty
Have you ever experienced a time when everything seemed to be going well? This was the case for King Solomon in Israel. He had an abundance of wisdom, population, wealth, and peace. This prosperity resulted not from Solomon’s military victories but from the wise leadership of his father, King David, and God’s providence.
God’s promise to Abraham in Genesis 22:17 was fulfilled during Solomon’s reign: “I will certainly bless you. I will multiply your descendants beyond number, like the stars in the sky and the sand on the seashore. Your descendants will conquer the cities of their enemies.” Israel thrived and grew, as David prayed in Psalm 72:6-7, “May the king’s rule be refreshing like spring rain on freshly cut grass, like the showers that water the earth. May all the godly flourish during his reign. May there be abundant prosperity until the moon is no more.”
When we’re doing well and have plenty, we should praise God for everything, including our children. It’s essential to be humble and thankful, recognizing that God’s goodness and mercy allow us to enjoy life. However, we must also remember that in times of abundance, we can easily forget our need for God.
Recognizing Abundance in Our Lives
What does abundance look like in your life? It might be time—what I wouldn’t give for a few more hours in my day! Maybe you have more money than you need, an abundance of creativity, leadership abilities, love, or friends.
Think of a flourishing garden in the fall, reaping an abundant harvest of vegetables and fruit. The rain, like in Psalm 72, nurtures the plants, and the right balance of sun and clouds allows them to thrive. You tend to your garden, pulling weeds and caring for it throughout the summer. As you harvest, prepare food for your family, share with friends, and preserve some for the winter, you experience true abundance. God blesses us, and we do some of the work.
Reflect on Solomon’s reign and the importance of seeking wisdom, humility, and obedience in your own life. How can you apply these principles to experience God’s blessings and prosperity?
May 27
Proverbs 1-4
The Importance of Wisdom
The book of Proverbs is a rich collection of wisdom literature, primarily attributed to Solomon. It’s structured into six units, with chapters 1-9 serving as a general prologue. A recurring theme is that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, a phrase unique to Israelite poetry.
"Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life." - Proverbs 4:13
Proverbs 1
The importance of parental teaching:
“Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. They are a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck.” - Proverbs 1:8-9
Key lessons include:
- The importance of teaching our children about dangers and wisdom.
- The consequences of ignoring wisdom: “For they hated knowledge and chose not to fear the LORD. They rejected my advice and paid no attention when I corrected them. Therefore, they must eat the bitter fruit of living their own way, choking on their own schemes.” (Proverbs 1:29-31)
Proverbs 2
This chapter lists desirable attributes to seek: wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and insight. God provides these to protect and guide the faithful.
Proverbs 3
Proverbs 3:21 encourages us to maintain common sense and discernment:
“My child, don’t lose sight of common sense and discernment. Hang on to them, for they will refresh your soul. They are like jewels on a necklace.”
Proverbs 3:5-6 is a well-known passage:
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Proverbs 4
A reinforcement of earlier lessons: don’t forget wisdom and guard your heart diligently. The heart is described as the wellspring of life, emphasizing the need for vigilance in what influences it.
Word of the Day: Wisdom
Definition: The quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment; the quality of being wise.
Seeking Wisdom in Today’s World
In an age of information, true wisdom is often overlooked. Young people today may fill their minds with fleeting entertainment rather than seeking lasting wisdom. To seek wisdom:
- Fear of the Lord: Have reverence and awe for God.
- Accept Correction: Be open to learning from mistakes and receiving guidance.
“My child, don’t reject the LORD’s discipline, and don’t be upset when he corrects you. For the LORD corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights.” - Proverbs 3:11-12
Guarding Our Hearts
Proverbs urges us to guard our hearts against negative influences. Be mindful of what we consume and who we spend time with.
“As Satan keeps special watch here, so must we keep special watch as well. If the citadel is taken, the whole town must surrender. If the heart is captured, the whole man—affections, desires, motives, pursuits—will be handed over.”
– Jerry Bridges
Reflect on how you can apply these principles of wisdom and vigilance in your life. How can you seek God’s wisdom and guard your heart against distractions?
May 28
Proverbs 5-7
Focusing on Preparation
Today, our focus is on three chapters from the Book of Proverbs: Proverbs 5, 6, and 7. These chapters are rich in wisdom and offer practical advice for living a life pleasing to God.
Proverbs 5: The Peril of Immorality
In Proverbs 5, we find a father urgently warning his son about the dangers of succumbing to the allure of an immoral woman. Her lips may seem sweet like honey, but in the end, she leads to destruction and death. The father’s plea is clear: avoid the temptation at all costs and stay true to the one God has given you.
This chapter resonates deeply as it highlights the deceptive nature of sin. Sexual sin, in particular, can quickly ensnare a person, bringing regret and pain. The analogy to Eve’s temptation in the Garden of Eden reminds us that sin often appears desirable but ultimately leads to ruin. God sees every path we take, and He examines our actions. This is a call to stay vigilant and avoid the traps of sin, whatever form they may take.
Proverbs 6: Practical Wisdom for Daily Life
Proverbs 6 offers a wealth of practical advice, cautioning against unwise financial agreements and encouraging diligence and hard work. The example of the industrious ant serves as a reminder of the value of preparation and planning. This chapter also addresses the severe consequences of adultery, emphasizing the destruction it brings to one’s life and reputation.
A notable part of this chapter is the list of seven things that the Lord detests:
- Haughty eyes (pride)
- A lying tongue
- Hands that shed innocent blood
- A heart that devises wicked schemes
- Feet that are quick to rush into evil
- A false witness who pours out lies
- A person who stirs up conflict in the community
These verses remind us that sin is multifaceted, encompassing our actions, words, thoughts, attitudes, and the impact we have on others. Understanding what God hates helps us align our lives with His will and seek His forgiveness when we fall short.
Proverbs 7: The Power of Temptation
Proverbs 7 continues the theme of avoiding sexual immorality, with the father urging his son to guard his heart and obey God’s commands. The seductive tactics of the immoral woman are vividly described, highlighting how temptation can be alluring but ultimately destructive.
The commentary on this chapter underscores the power of experience to shape our habits. Surrendering to temptation strengthens its hold on us, making it increasingly difficult to resist in the future. This is a powerful reminder of the importance of building godly habits and relying on God’s strength to overcome temptation.
Word of the Day: Prepare
Definition: To make ready beforehand.
The wisdom in Proverbs serves to prepare us by teaching what is right and wrong, and giving advice on how to please God. As Proverbs 6:20-22 says:
“My son, keep your father’s command and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. Bind them always on your heart; fasten them around your neck. When you walk, they will guide you; when you sleep, they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you.”
Preparation is a theme that runs throughout our lives. Whether it’s planning a garden, preparing for a trip, or guiding our children, taking the time to prepare is crucial.
Reflecting on these chapters, I am reminded of the importance of preparation in my spiritual journey. Just as my parents prepared the garden for planting, I need to prepare my heart to receive God’s wisdom. This involves studying His Word, seeking His guidance, and building habits that honor Him.
Moreover, understanding what God hates and recognizing the seductive nature of sin helps me stay vigilant. I am thankful for Jesus, who faced God’s wrath on our behalf and offers forgiveness and freedom from sin. With the Holy Spirit’s help, I can live differently, aligning my life with God’s will.
Proverbs 5-7 provide timeless wisdom that prepares us to navigate life’s challenges. By embracing these teachings, we can avoid the pitfalls of sin and live in a way that honors God. Let’s take to heart the lessons from these chapters, prepare ourselves with God’s wisdom, and strive to live lives marked by righteousness and integrity.
May 29
Proverbs 8-10
Seeking the Wisdom of God
Welcome to today’s blog post accompanying the Daily Bible Podcast! Our focus is on three chapters from the Book of Proverbs: Proverbs 8, 9, and 10. These chapters are rich in wisdom and provide practical advice for living a life pleasing to God. As we delve into these passages, we’ll highlight the Word of the Day: Seeking, and draw out personal takeaways to make the teachings relevant to our daily lives.
Proverbs 8: The Beauty of Wisdom
G. Campbell Morgan described Proverbs 8 as having “nothing greater or grander in all the Biblical literature, as setting forth the beauty and grace of that wisdom which has the fear of Jehovah as its chief part.” In this chapter, we turn from the adulterous woman to Lady Wisdom, who offers invaluable treasures. Wisdom calls out to us from hilltops and town gates, urging us to embrace what is right, true, and wholesome. Her gifts—knowledge and understanding—are more precious than rubies, silver, or gold. Wisdom teaches us to hate evil, pride, arrogance, corruption, and perverse speech. The close connection between wisdom and God brings joy to those who follow, listen, watch, and wait for her.
Proverbs 9: The Invitation of Wisdom and Folly
In Proverbs 9, wisdom and folly are personified, each inviting us to follow them. Wisdom hosts a feast in her seven-pillared mansion, symbolizing perfection and stability. In contrast, Folly lures the naive with stolen pleasures, leading them toward death and the grave.
Proverbs 9:12 states, “If you become wise, you will be the one to benefit. If you scorn wisdom, you will be the one to suffer.” This chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom, understanding, and virtuous behavior, which lead to life.
This theme of a banquet is echoed in Matthew 22, where Jesus describes a great banquet and the invitations extended. Both passages highlight the choice between following wisdom or folly, representing godly versus worldly concerns.
Proverbs 10: The Proverbs of Solomon
With Proverbs 10, the book transitions from introductory teachings to a collection of Solomon’s wise sayings. These short, insightful proverbs often compare and contrast with each other, providing practical guidance for daily living.
For example, Proverbs 10:31 says, “The mouth of the godly person gives wise advice, but the tongue that deceives will be cut off.” Similarly, Proverbs 10:12 states, “Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all sins,” which is echoed in 1 Peter 4:8: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”
Word of the Day: Seeking
Definition: Attempting to find something.
Proverbs 8:34-36 illustrates what seeking looks like:
“Blessed are those who listen to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For those who find me find life and receive favor from the LORD. But those who fail to find me harm themselves; all who hate me love death.”
Seeking wisdom involves listening, watching daily, and waiting. It’s akin to a scholar waiting eagerly at the door of a school, longing to learn what is good and right. We are always seeking something, whether it’s knowledge, entertainment, or comfort. True seeking should focus on godly pursuits rather than self-indulgence.
Psalm 27:4 reflects a heart that seeks God:
“The one thing I ask of the LORD— the thing I seek most— is to live in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, delighting in the LORD’s perfections and meditating in his Temple.”
Reflecting on these chapters, I see the profound importance of seeking wisdom in my spiritual journey. Just as my parents prepared our garden, I need to prepare my heart to receive God’s wisdom. This involves studying His Word, seeking His guidance, and building habits that honor Him.
Understanding what God hates and recognizing the seductive nature of sin helps me stay vigilant. I am grateful for Jesus, who faced God’s wrath on our behalf and offers forgiveness and freedom from sin. With the Holy Spirit’s help, I can align my life with God’s will and seek to live differently.
Seeking Wisdom Daily
Proverbs 8:34-36 encourages us to seek wisdom actively. This means listening, watching daily, and waiting for wisdom. Just as a scholar eagerly awaits learning, we should eagerly seek God’s wisdom in our lives.
Modeling Seeking for Our Children
Solomon grew up observing his father David’s example, which profoundly impacted him. As parents, our duty is to model seeking God for our children. Ephesians 6:4 instructs fathers to bring up their children “in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” Our actions speak louder than words, and seeking God benefits us and sets an example for the next generation.
Proverbs 8, 9, and 10 provide timeless wisdom that prepares us to navigate life’s challenges. By embracing these teachings, we can avoid the pitfalls of sin and live in a way that honors God. Let’s take to heart the lessons from these chapters, prepare ourselves with God’s wisdom, and strive to live lives marked by righteousness and integrity.
May 30
Proverbs 11-13
Encouragement When Hope is Deferred
In today’s readings, we dive into the wisdom of Solomon in Proverbs 11, 12, and 13. Solomon, known as the wisest man in all the world, shares timeless truths through these chapters. The Hebrew word for wisdom, “khokhmah” (hook-mah), signifies not just knowledge but also skill and applied knowledge. As we explore these proverbs, let’s focus on how to apply these teachings in our daily lives. Remember, these proverbs are probabilities, not promises. They guide us on how to live rightly and treat each other kindly in a broken world.
Proverbs 11: The Way of the Righteous and the Wicked
Proverbs 11 is filled with contrasts between the righteous and the wicked. It emphasizes that godly people are rewarded while evil people are punished. Here are a few highlights:
Humility and Wisdom: “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” (Proverbs 11:2)
Righteous Living: “The righteousness of the blameless makes their paths straight, but the wicked are brought down by their own wickedness.” (Proverbs 11:5)
The humble person knows that walking in God’s ways is the right way to live. We are encouraged to be gracious, giving, truthful, and honest, avoiding gossip and deceit.
Proverbs 12: Conduct and Character
“The wicked die and disappear, but the family of the godly stands firm.” (Proverbs 12:7)
Proverbs 12 reflects on the conduct and character of people and the consequences of their actions. It provides a detailed description of the godly:
The plans of the godly are just.
The words of the godly save lives.
The godly care for their animals.
The godly are well-rooted and bear their own fruit.
The godly escape trouble.
No harm comes to the godly.
The godly give good advice to their friends.
The way of the godly leads to life.
While these statements are generally true, we recognize that godly people still face trouble and harm. However, those who follow God experience fewer of these difficulties compared to those who don’t.
Proverbs 13: Listening to Wise Advice
“Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.” (Proverbs 13:20)
Proverbs 13 begins with a father advising his son to listen and accept wise correction. This chapter underscores the importance of choosing wise companions and heeding their advice.
Steven Curtis Chapman’s song “Walk with the Wise” beautifully encapsulates this idea:
“If we walk with the wise, we will grow wise,
And if we walk in the light, then our path will be bright.”
This song reminds us that wisdom is often passed down from those who have already walked the path we are on. By learning from their experiences, we too can grow wise.
Word of the Day: Defer
Definition: To put off to a later time; postpone.
“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life.” (Proverbs 13:12)
When our hope isn’t in the Lord but in earthly things, we can easily grow weary. Deferred hope can lead to a heavy heart. I have experienced this personally, as I’m sure many of you have. But even when we can’t see it, God has a plan, and we must remain faithful that He will bring that plan to fruition.
One commentary I read stated, “People can bear frustration only so long; they must have encouragement to continue. Perhaps believers should make it part of their task to help others realize their hopes whenever possible.” This is profoundly true. Encouragement can be scarce, but it is crucial. Reflecting on this verse now, I wonder if my hope has been misplaced in the past, wanting God to answer my prayers in my timing, not His.
Now, looking back, I see how life has bloomed in unexpected ways. There is gratitude and awe for all He has provided. If you feel heartsick from deferred hope, grieve the loss but set your hope on our Savior. He wants to fulfill our dreams and longings if they align with His will.
God’s Word helps us navigate personal situations and emotions. It provides examples and teachings that guide our lives. Charles Spurgeon wisely said, “Nobody ever outgrows Scripture; the book widens and deepens with our years.” The Bible remains relevant, offering comfort, direction, and hope as we grow in understanding.
The more I read God’s Word, the more I want to read it. Let’s immerse ourselves in these proverbs, learn from them, and apply their wisdom to our lives. By doing so, we align ourselves with God’s will and experience the richness of His blessings.
May 31
Proverbs 14-16
Reverence for God in our Daily Lives
Today’s readings take us through Proverbs 14, 15, and 16, offering profound insights into the “fear of the Lord”—a deep reverence for God’s knowledge, power, and direction. This reverence impacts our actions, decisions, and character, guiding us to live with integrity and righteousness.
Proverbs 14: The Fear of the Lord
- Proverbs 14:2: “Whoever fears the LORD walks uprightly, but those who despise him are devious in their ways.”
- Proverbs 14:27: “The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death.”
Reverence for God leads to upright living and serves as a source of spiritual nourishment, helping us embrace the abundant life God desires for us.
Proverbs 15: The Power of Our Words
Proverbs 15 emphasizes the impact of our words. Gentle and wise words can defuse anger and bring life, much like a tree offering shade and fruit.
Key Concepts:
- A soft answer turns away anger.
- Gentle words are a tree of life.
- Wise individuals listen to constructive criticism.
- Fools despise correction and discipline.
By seeking knowledge, thinking before speaking, and surrounding ourselves with wise advisors, we can harness the power of our words for good.
Proverbs 16: Living with Integrity and Trust in God
- Proverbs 16:3: “Commit your actions to the LORD, and your plans will succeed.”
- Proverbs 16:8: “Better to have little, with godliness, than to be rich and dishonest.”
- Proverbs 16:9: “We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.”
Proverbs 16 highlights the importance of living with integrity, humility, and trust in God. By committing our actions to the Lord, we align our plans with His will, leading to success and righteousness.
Word of the Day: Reverence
Definition: Deep respect for someone or something. It comes from a gesture indicative of respect, like a bow or curtsy.
Proverbs 14:26: "In the fear of the LORD one has strong confidence, and his children will have a refuge."
Reverence for God provides confidence and assurance in His faithfulness, extending blessings to future generations. It’s a powerful legacy that can impact our children and their descendants.
Generational Impact of Reverence
Reverence for God can have a lasting impact across generations. A family deeply rooted in faith can stand strong even in challenging circumstances. My daughter Leslie’s family, part of the Christian Brethren Church in the Czech Republic, exemplifies this. Despite historical adversities, their reverence for God has been a refuge and blessing, leaving a legacy of faith for future generations.
How are you revering God today? What does this reverence look like in your daily life? Fostering a deep reverence for our Heavenly Father is essential for reflecting His greatness. Solomon’s life is a testament to using God-given wisdom humbly to demonstrate God’s greatness to the nations.
