Day 157 – Proverbs 10-12

Talking Points

• Starting in chapter 10, there is a considerable section contrasting the righteous person and the wicked person. True wisdom is not just knowing the positive, but also includes being sure of the negative. In His grace, God highlights the good and warns against evil.
• As believers, we should be in a process of growing in our desire to walk in obedience. When we obey, it honors God and it blesses us. It is literally a win-win! Part of our growth process is understanding the need for Godly wisdom. We want to hear God’s voice of encouragement, instruction, and even correction. “Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge” (12:1).
• God blesses work. Diligent work is always a profit.
• As people who carry the name of the LORD, we are to deal fairly and honestly in our business, and we will be able to rest in integrity. Dishonest gain is an abomination to Him.
• Hatred is the source of conflict, strife, and trouble.

Thoughts

God has much to say about how we speak. He warns us that our words can set our lives on fire (James 3:6). He says that our mouths speak what our hearts are filled with (Luke 6:45). So, it’s no wonder the LORD hates lying lips and those who spread slander (Proverbs 10:18, 12:22). He tells us to be careful how we speak, warning us that when we babble, we are more likely to sin in our speech (Proverbs 10:19).

There’s a popular saying: “Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and to remove all doubt.” God actually says that “he who restrains his lips is wise” (10:19). So, whatever the world may or may not think, we have an infinitely wise God who tells us to guard our tongues.

Lord, please help me grow in Godly wisdom, especially where my speech is concerned. May it truly reflect the love I have for You in my heart.