Proverb of the Day: 8/27/2024

Posted by Timothy Bitz September 01, 2024

What I Learned in my First Year: Prioritize Bible over Talking Points

“Because they hated knowledge and did not choose the fear of the Lord, would have none of my counsel and despised all my reproof, therefore they shall eat the fruit of their way, and have their fill of their own devices” (Proverbs 1:29–31). “If your people won’t listen to the Bible, they won’t listen to you.” —Anonymous I’ve served in varying ministry capacities for a while now. It’s never been in the leading seat though. I’ve seen this play out from afar, watching my leaders navigate through peril and difficulty. Some were like seasoned sailors navigating stormy waters. Some capsized. Still others chugged along trying to get to greater health, greater strength, a more committed holiness, yet still a ways off. Of the healthier “captains” that I’ve served under at the healthier churches, they prioritized Scripture as their charted course and Jesus’ fame as their great North Star. I’ve sought to do that in my first year. Not perfectly executed, of course. First years are...

HEAR Journal

Highlight: Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds, for riches do not last forever; and does a crown endure to all generations (Proverbs 27:23–24)?

Explain: David Kidner’s brief thoughts on the scene: “This country scene is not designed to make farmers of everybody, but to show the proper interplay of man’s labour and God’s nurture…” (Proverbs: An Introduction and Commentary, 161.). It’s a bit more than that. Solomon gives some brief instruction on wealth management today. Kidner and I agree that flocks are not figurative here. Solomon is urging us to “keep our mind on my money, and money on my mind.” Tending to your flock is a life or death situation. As you consider, it can also be understood as cause to occur (שִׁ֥ית).

Apply: I don’t need to know just how much to make, save, spend. There seems to be a connotation here to grow. Gain skill, and become economically savvy. Financial coaching is on the books!

Respond: Father, increase my skill to become increasingly better at handling finances!