Good Question - Day 20
Day 20: Friday, May 12
Read Proverbs 30-31
Highlight
The last two chapters of Proverbs add on the writings/proverbs of two other individuals: Agur & King Lemuel. There is a lot of speculation on the identity of these two men, including whether these are pseudonyms of Solomon himself. Regardless, these chapters have a unique format from those that came before. Because of the uniqueness of the end of Chapter 31, that’s where we will put our attention as we close out this reading plan.
Proverbs 31:10-21 is a poem that celebrates ‘the wife of noble character.’ While this does not show in English, the entire poem is an acrostic. Each line starts with a different letter of the Hebrew alphabet in sequence. In other words, this is literally the ABCs of Wisdom. This poem has been central to Jewish culture. Traditionally, this poem was recited by Jewish husbands and children during Sabbath dinner on Friday nights.
The poem itself sets a very high ideal for any woman, but in the full context of the Book of Proverbs we can understand why: this poem isn’t actually about a wife. Instead, this poem fits into the book as a whole by personifying Wisdom itself. Bible scholars point out that this poem should be read as a hymn to Lady Wisdom written in the heroic mode - in other words, celebrating the triumph of wisdom over folly. While the way the poem is presented can absolutely be read as an example for women to follow, it’s reference to Lady Wisdom means that most of its content is as applicable to men as to women.
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 30-31
Highlight
The last two chapters of Proverbs add on the writings/proverbs of two other individuals: Agur & King Lemuel. There is a lot of speculation on the identity of these two men, including whether these are pseudonyms of Solomon himself. Regardless, these chapters have a unique format from those that came before. Because of the uniqueness of the end of Chapter 31, that’s where we will put our attention as we close out this reading plan.
Proverbs 31:10-21 is a poem that celebrates ‘the wife of noble character.’ While this does not show in English, the entire poem is an acrostic. Each line starts with a different letter of the Hebrew alphabet in sequence. In other words, this is literally the ABCs of Wisdom. This poem has been central to Jewish culture. Traditionally, this poem was recited by Jewish husbands and children during Sabbath dinner on Friday nights.
The poem itself sets a very high ideal for any woman, but in the full context of the Book of Proverbs we can understand why: this poem isn’t actually about a wife. Instead, this poem fits into the book as a whole by personifying Wisdom itself. Bible scholars point out that this poem should be read as a hymn to Lady Wisdom written in the heroic mode - in other words, celebrating the triumph of wisdom over folly. While the way the poem is presented can absolutely be read as an example for women to follow, it’s reference to Lady Wisdom means that most of its content is as applicable to men as to women.
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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