Daily Reading 11-8-17
Proverbs 16:21-25 New Living Translation (NLT)
We would all like to think we know what is right. However, what seems right to our minds may or may not be wisdom. Wisdom is applied Truth; it is the ability to use knowledge with spiritual insight and act in a positive and productive way. When we appropriately apply the Word of God we are applying Truth that results in wisdom. In fact, 1 Corinthians 1:30 tells us, “God has connected us with Christ Jesus. For our benefit God made Christ to be wisdom itself.” When we look at the life of Christ and listen to His words, we can learn a lot. All wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord.
In our passage today from the Wisdom Literature of Proverbs, we can gain a greater perspective of how wisdom might act. Proverbs is full of ‘wise’ sayings; teaching about God and our relationship with Him. It teaches us how to live in this world in light of the covenant; in other words how to live as the people of God. From our verses, we can tell wisdom stands on the platform of words that become action.
Proverbs 16:21-25
21 The wise are known for their understanding,
and pleasant words are persuasive.
22 Discretion is a life-giving fountain to those who possess it,
but discipline is wasted on fools.
23 From a wise mind comes wise speech;
the words of the wise are persuasive.
24 Kind words are like honey-
sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.
25 There is a path before each person that seems right,
but it ends in death.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for modeling wisdom for me. Help me to grow in how I use my words, because I want to reflect your wisdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen.