Proverbs 8.13 – I find in Scripture that there are two reasons amond many for which we are to fear the Lord. We are to fear Him because He is holy. Wtihout His holiness we could not see Him. The second reason we are to fear Him is becuase of His Sovereignty. With that we are to bow in worship and praise and strive to be holy in our conduct as well. This passage provides a compelling challenge to be like Him.
Proverbs 22.29 to 23.5 Have you thought much about what you do? Have you ever thought that what you do is supposed to bring God glory? Whether work, chores, or hobbies, everything we do should be done in such a way that it glorifies God. Rather than looking at work as how it benefits me ask how it is a service to God or to others. If all we do is done for as if we are doing it for God then when won’t chase after it like chasing a swift eagle, it will be seen by others who will give God glory. Are you living for self or living for God? It’s evident in how you work.
Proverbs 17.17 and 18.24 Friends come in all shapes and sizes. They can be a significant influence either for good or bad. We learn from Scripture some essential qualities of what makes a good friend, especially when it comes to stimulating spiritual growth. But there is “a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Do you know that friend whose name is Jesus?
Proverbs 22.6 Parenting comes with many challenges. Training them to live godly is a tall order and we as parents cannot do it alone. We need the collective wisdom and instruction of others. I believe this passage is a call to the Christian to help teach formerly or informally our children so that the next generation stands tall and strong on the Solid Rock of Christ. Everyone bears a measure of responsibility to help ensure children see examples of godly character. The message offers some insight into the things we should be training them in.
Proverbs 6.6-11 Ants are one of the more peculiar of God’s creatures. While we do everything in our power to eliminate their presence in our home, Solomon invites us to take a closer look at them and consider their ways more closely. They provide us with some wonderful insight into our own behavior or how we ought to emulate their industriousness. They are a model for a person who would otherwise should to be a sluggard. “Go to the ant, sluggard, and consider its ways.”