Thursday, July 2

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2020

"One who is slack in his work
is brother to one who destroys.

"The name of the LORD is a fortified tower;
the righteous run to it and are safe." (Proverbs 18:9,10)


The Proverbs bring wisdom and structure to the chaotic business of life. I am often thankful for their placement in the One-Year Bible, providing the last thought on which to linger during the daily readings.

Today's two proverbs appear to offer contrasting planes of reference: the secular the sacred. Taken separately, it might appear that Solomon jumped from the mundane to the holy.

Yet, we understand from several passages of Scripture that our approach to work reflects and reveals our relationship with God (cf. Genesis 2:15; Colossians 3:23). In the context of this proverb, we may understand our deep, moral obligation to serve honorably and effectively as part of a team. If we fall short in our responsibilities, they may fall to others; even worse, we could cause processes to unravel or bring injury to property or people. Our work matters to God and to those whom we touch.

In the second proverb, we understand that God's Name provides protection and security to those who seek Him, described here as the "righteous." Many times in the proverbs, we read about the virtues of and the blessings accruing to the "righteous." In our human eyes, we might look to the "righteous" as a special class of people set apart for their goodness. Yet, we understand that the "righteous" only become that way because of their faith. In Romans 3 and 4, Paul explains how righteousness only comes by faith.

The righteous (starting out as ordinary people) experience life and protection ultimately because of God. His goodness and excellency attracts these ordinary people, and they place their faith in Him. Through that faith, God declares them righteous and part of His family.

What have you been absorbing from Proverbs? Which speak to you? Have you committed any to memory?


Lord God, thank You for the treasure of Proverbs. Help us to live wisely and to esteem You and Your will for our lives. Guide us to choose well and to honor You and others. In Jesus's Name, amen.



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