Good Question - Day 16
Day 16: Monday, May 8
Read Proverbs 22-23
Highlights from Each Chapter
Proverbs 22:6 - “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” This Proverb is a perfect example of what is mentioned above: these proverbs are meant to be read as likely outcomes rather than guarantees. The “way” referenced here is the way of wisdom that this whole book has been describing. In fact, the Book of Proverbs presents itself as a record of a king training his sons to follow this way themselves. Throughout the Bible there is an emphasis on the importance of instructing the young so that their “wagon wheels” will be firmly planted in the “ruts” of the path that leads to purpose, joy, and peace. (see Week 1, Day 2 of this reading plan for context)
Proverbs 23:20 - “When you sit to dine with a ruler… do not crave his delicacies, for that food is deceptive.” This proverb instructs us to realize that being welcomed into the presence of someone with power or influence is often not innocent generosity - there is often an ulterior motive. In our context, we might word this as “If your boss invites you to her house for dinner, don’t forget they are still observing you.” Some critics of our faith have expressed their opinions that forgiveness, grace, and loving our enemies is a naive way to engage the world. A proverb such as this one should remind us that the Bible is not naive nor is it encouraging us to be. Rather, it is encouraging us to remember that eternity is real and God is on the throne - therefore live accordingly.
Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method. It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading. It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal. But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.
S.O.A.P. Method
Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?
Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying? About God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?
Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? A promise to receive? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth?
Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. This is a way to turn God’s Word to you back to Him. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers. (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8)
Read Proverbs 22-23
Highlights from Each Chapter
Proverbs 22:6 - “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” This Proverb is a perfect example of what is mentioned above: these proverbs are meant to be read as likely outcomes rather than guarantees. The “way” referenced here is the way of wisdom that this whole book has been describing. In fact, the Book of Proverbs presents itself as a record of a king training his sons to follow this way themselves. Throughout the Bible there is an emphasis on the importance of instructing the young so that their “wagon wheels” will be firmly planted in the “ruts” of the path that leads to purpose, joy, and peace. (see Week 1, Day 2 of this reading plan for context)
Proverbs 23:20 - “When you sit to dine with a ruler… do not crave his delicacies, for that food is deceptive.” This proverb instructs us to realize that being welcomed into the presence of someone with power or influence is often not innocent generosity - there is often an ulterior motive. In our context, we might word this as “If your boss invites you to her house for dinner, don’t forget they are still observing you.” Some critics of our faith have expressed their opinions that forgiveness, grace, and loving our enemies is a naive way to engage the world. A proverb such as this one should remind us that the Bible is not naive nor is it encouraging us to be. Rather, it is encouraging us to remember that eternity is real and God is on the throne - therefore live accordingly.
Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method. It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading. It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal. But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.
S.O.A.P. Method
Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?
Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying? About God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?
Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? A promise to receive? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth?
Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. This is a way to turn God’s Word to you back to Him. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers. (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8)
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