The proverbs of Solomon provide practical wisdom that can benefit everyone, especially young people (Prov. 1:3, 8). Reading this book can help us grow in discerning our current circumstances, allowing us to see things as they truly are. It also helps us avoid being manipulated or controlled by others. Importantly, the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; without this reverence for God, no amount of information we acquire will serve us well (1:7). We must respect God, return to His word, and grow through using it in our daily lives.
In this first chapter, we are reminded to recognize the ungodly schemes and plots of men (1:8-19). Peer pressure can influence everyone, particularly young people, to engage in behaviors that lead to negative, lasting consequences. It is crucial for all people, but especially the youth, to understand that their actions have consequences that can last a lifetime… and even carry into eternity. Solomon warns, “So are the ways of everyone greedy for gain; it takes away the life of its owners” (Proverbs 1:19).
Wisdom, in this chapter, is personified as a woman calling out in the streets, urging us to heed her words. If only we would heed her voice and come to her, we could grow in understanding! We must recognize the importance of accepting wisdom, as refusing her can lead to calamity, embarrassing situations, or compromised circumstances in our spiritual, emotional, and physical lives. When we ignore wisdom, we are responsible for the consequences that follow (1:20-32).
There are warnings here, as well as comfort. Wisdom promises that those who listen to her will dwell safely and be secure without fear of evil. To have freedom from fear is the result of possessing true wisdom (1:33).
I pray that God Almighty will increase my wisdom, enabling me to discern the circumstances around me. When others plot and manipulate for evil, may I recognize it and turn away. I pray that as I seek to grow in wisdom, I will embrace what God offers and that He will provide for me in every way. Moreover, I ask for boldness and confidence in this pursuit. Oh God, please increase my faith! Amen.
The Holy Spirit inspired the collection of proverbs found in the Bible. Most were written or collected by Solomon, but the complete book, as we have it, was not put together until at least 200 years later; this is because it contains the proverbs of Solomon, which the men of King Hezekiah copied (see Proverbs 25:1 and 2 Kings 18:1).
The book has a natural outline:
1. The Fatherly Instructor teaches his son and urges him to seek after wisdom (Chapters 1-9).
2. The proverbs of Solomon (Chapters 10-24).
3. Proverbs of Solomon copied by the men of King Hezekiah (Chapters 25-29).
4. The words of Agur, the son of Jakeh, the oracle (Chapter 30).
5. The words of King Lemuel, the oracle which his mother taught him (Chapter 31).
The first six verses of the book inform us about the purpose of the proverbs.
Know wisdom and instruction: This refers to the ability to see things as they truly are, distinguishing reality from fiction. Instruction refers to discipline, which, when aligned with wisdom, allows one to control and manage one’s affairs effectively.
Discern the words of understanding: This means to understand the principles by which to evaluate information or discussions, determining whether they are good or bad, true or false.
Receive instruction in righteousness, justice, and integrity: A person guided by the proverbs will act not out of external pressure or custom but through an understanding of the principles of right and wrong.
Give prudence to the simple: Here, “the simple” refers to the naive person, typically a young man who lacks experience. The inspired proverbs can provide knowledge from experience, teaching care and discretion—the capacity to comprehend the right intentions, implement appropriate actions, and devise effective plans.
Increase learning for the wise: The wise person will hear and increase their knowledge, while the person of understanding—the one willing to be informed—may gain rules for conduct and management. Thus, proverbs assist those who are already wise to manage both their own affairs and the affairs of others wisely.
Comprehend wise sayings: Finally, the proverbs enable individuals to grasp profound sayings, helping them understand the words of the wise and their enigmas or puzzles.
Over the next 31 days, we will read the Book of Proverbs—one chapter a day—and make notes of 3 to 5 observations from each text to draw practical applications for daily life. I invite you to join. Our hope and goal is to be a little wiser 31 days from now than we are today. Let’s take the distilled wisdom of the ages and make practical applications in our lives, starting now.
Join us tomorrow as we plan to read Chapter 1, and feel free to share any comments or observations you think are worth discussing in the comments section.
Pictured from left to right: Adam Willingham, Justin Lewis, Bob Waldron, Ian Rice, and Butch Morgan. Seated is the late Jimmy Johnson.
King Solomon wrote, “Better to go to the house of mourning than to go to the house of feasting, for that is the end of all men; and the living will take it to heart.” (Ecclesiastes 7:2). Death became a significant part of Bob Waldron’s life, and one day, our own death will become part of our life story as well. It is wise for us to reflect on this!
I first met Brother Waldron at the funeral for Sister Rosa Lee Putnel in Ft Meade, FL, where he invited me to a Bible study. The following morning, I drove over two hours to meet him in Dade City. I had been preaching in my first full-time position for five months, but I felt a deep sense of inadequacy regarding my Bible knowledge. I had been fervently praying for God to provide me with what I needed to grow spiritually. During that first Bible study, I opened up to Brother Waldron about my feelings of inadequacy. To my surprise, he did not rebuke me! Instead, he offered to become my mentor and explained that he had some tools that could help me both immediately and in the long term, provided I committed to using them. Just as I began to feel immense gratitude, he admonished me to take our time and efforts together seriously. The tone was set, leading to seven of the most spiritually enriching years of my life! Through his teaching, example, encouragement, and nurturing, Brother Waldron challenged me to bring my best to the table consistently. I am eternally grateful for that! Moreover, he embraced my wife and children as family, enabling our collective growth in ways beyond measure.
Among the many things I cherish, I always knew I could rely on him for sound counsel during troubling circumstances. I was consistently amazed by his wisdom. On one occasion, after I remarked on how wise he was, he humbly responded that he was taking the information I shared and responding with spiritual principles from God’s Word that best fit the scenario. This revelation was an epiphany for me, and many similar moments left a profound impact.
After seven years of intense mentorship, Brother Waldron had to scale back due to health issues. By this time, he had become more than a mentor; he had become a father figure to me. I was still blessed to visit him for many years after, drawing on his wisdom and influence through close, personal contact. However, as his health declined, I felt a significant change in our dynamic and struggled mightily with this transition.
Among Remarkable Men Moses was a remarkable man who influenced many in his generation, and his work continues to impact others. He had Joshua to assist him, and eventually, Joshua would lead God’s people into battle. Those years of working with Moses certainly prepared Joshua for such responsibility.
Elijah was another remarkable man whose influence remains significant. He prepared Elisha to carry on the prophetic work, and Elisha held Elijah in high esteem.
The Apostle Paul was yet another remarkable figure whose influence continues today. A large part of Paul’s work involved training Timothy to take care of what had been entrusted to him and to commit those teachings to faithful men who would, in turn, be able to teach others.
Bob Waldron is a remarkable man of our generation. His influence is deeply ingrained, and his work will continue to inspire many. He worked diligently to prepare others for battle, to take up the mantle, and to teach others!
Yet, there is another common thread among these examples that is paramount! Before Moses died, he commended the children of Israel, including Joshua, to the word of the LORD (Deut. 30:11-14). Before Elijah ascended to heaven, Elisha requested a double portion of Elijah’s spirit, and Elijah guided Elisha to seek God’s will in the matter (2 Kings 2:9-11). Before his departure, Paul encouraged Timothy by directing him to the Lord and His Word (2 Tim. 1:6-7; 3:14-17).
In his efforts, Brother Waldron too pointed us to the Lord. Consider this quote from Bob and Sandra Waldron’s book, “Go Tell the Good News,” regarding 2 Timothy 3:14-17: “Here in Paul’s last letter, he makes one of the most inclusive, strongest affirmations of the inspiration of the scriptures to be found in the whole Bible. All scripture is inspired. Timothy, you have everything you need in order to be equipped for every good work. Paul would no longer be available to advise Timothy, but he had all the wisdom of God within his grasp. We, too, have that same word of God in our hands – with the same blessings it provided for Timothy. Let us remember to use it wisely.”
Before his passing, I had an opportunity to visit with Brother Waldron. And at that particular time, I was feeling very weak, grasping for more of his wisdom. Recognizing my situation, he shared words that I hold dear: “Don’t sell yourself short, nor underestimate your abilities. Use your knowledge. Grow your knowledge. Fulfill your potential!”
Brother Waldron, I will always cherish our friendship.
May God grant us all the strength to serve the Almighty, and our generation, to the best of our abilities (Acts 13:36).
During the reign of Josiah, the temple in Jerusalem required extensive repairs due to severe neglect (2 Chron. 34:10). Fast forward to the days of Jesus, when the Herodian temple stood in all its splendor. Many were proud of the temple’s presence, but they had not learned from past generations who believed that the temple alone would provide them with spiritual security (Matt. 24:1-2; Jer. 7:1-11).
Christians are to abstain from actions that would defile our bodies, and that involves recognizing our bodies as temples of God (1 Cor. 6:19-20). It’s essential to take care of our bodies. Yet, we must be cautious about the tendency to “worship” the “temple” God has given us.
It is significant to remember that our bodies are to be used for God’s glory, and we should strive to use what He has entrusted to us as instruments of righteousness (Rom. 6:13). And it’s wise to consider the long-term use of our bodies; for instance, maintaining good health can help us keep up with our children, grandchildren, and beyond. Having strength and endurance enables us to care for ourselves and make the most of our time on earth.
But, while I abstain from things that would defile, I wonder if some people have unhealthy obsessions with their bodies, to the extent that they almost worship them. For example, if I become hyper-focused on what I eat or constantly work out to achieve a certain appearance, could that be a result of pride or vanity? There’s nothing wrong with trying to look and feel our best. However, fixating on our physical health can become an unhealthy obsession.
The fitness and entertainment industries are booming. While it’s wise to take care of our bodies, we should not “worship” the “temple” itself. Let us labor for the food that never perishes, concentrating our efforts on spiritual strengthening and endurance (Jn 6:27; Eph. 6:10; Heb. 10:36). If our focus is in the right place, we will care for our bodies in a way that brings glory to God (1 Cor. 9:24-27).
6 If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed.
7 But reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness.
8 For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.
Some people do their good deeds to be seen by others, so that they may gain notoriety from men. They have their reward (Matthew 6:1-2, 5, 7, 16).
But then, there are those who have the word of God sown in their hearts. The seed therefore germinates, buds forth, and blossoms out into something so beautiful that others cannot help but notice!
13 You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.
14 You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.
15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
In Jesus’ time, the Sadducees were part of a distinct class system within Judea, aligned with beliefs that often led to conflict with the Pharisees. The Sadducees were known for rejecting faith in the resurrection and the existence of angels (Acts 23:8). When they tested Jesus about the resurrection, Jesus did not accept their ignorance. Instead, He rebuked them for “not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God” (Matt. 22:23-33; Mk. 12:18-27; Lk. 20:27-40). Likewise, there are some today who are missing the mark on vital aspects of truth. May we reflect on various points that can and should be affirmed (even those espoused by counterparts)?
Nowhere in the Bible did Jesus rebuke anyone for striving to faithfully keep all of God’s Law to the best of their ability. Some equated their man-made traditions with God’s word and, as a result, cast aside the true meanings of various passages of Scripture (Mk 7:1-13). Many also had hypocritical and hypercritical attitudes (Matt. 7:1-5; Mk. 7:10-24; Lk. 18:9-14), and Jesus was swift to condemn such sinful attitudes. But the Lord expects much from His followers, and while good intentions are necessary, so is the truth (Jn. 17:17, 20-21). If we constantly hear warnings against one extreme without any against the other, I encourage you to pray, reflect, and exercise discernment.
9 And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment,
10 that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ,
11 being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.
My fellow Americans, neighbors, and loved ones: Many are posting tributes on social media today to honor those who have lost their lives while serving their fellow man. I am very grateful to live in this country and for the freedoms that it provides. Moreover, I am thankful for my fellow citizens’ sacrifices so that I can enjoy the comforts of living in this land. I truly am proud to be an American. That said, while we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for others, I would like to take this opportunity to encourage you to consider something even more critical. Many fathers and mothers have sent their sons and daughters to die on the battlefield, but God sent his only begotten Son to die for the sins of humanity (John 3:16). Though I do not wish to diminish many Americans’ heavy sacrifices, I want to draw our attention to Jesus. Would you join me in praying to God after reading this reflection? Consider a few comparisons.
Sacrifice for Others: Today, we seek to remember the soldiers who gave their lives to protect freedom, peace, and country. With much greater consequence, Jesus gave his life to save humanity from sin and death, offering the gift of eternal life! Christ told His disciples, “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends. You are My friends if you do whatever I command you.” (John 15:13-14)
Freedom Through Death: On Memorial Day, we reflect on how the sacrifice of so many soldiers secured our earthly freedoms, such as religious liberty and safety. In contrast, Jesus’ death offers us spiritual freedom—freedom from the bondage of sin, from separation from God, and the ultimate fate of condemnation. “Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.” (Galatians 5:1)
Remembering the Fallen: We honor and remember those who died on Memorial Day, ensuring their sacrifices are not forgotten. Christians also remember Jesus’ death regularly through practices like communion so that His sacrifice remains in our hearts and minds. Jesus instituted His memorial on the night in which he was betrayed, and 1st-century Christians observed that memorial every first day of the week (Matthew 26:26-30; Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 11:23-33).
Inspiration to Live Better: Contemplating the sacrifices of soldiers may inspire us to live with gratitude, courage, and a commitment to service. In a much more profound sense, remembering Jesus’ sacrifice calls Christians to live sacrificially, loving and serving others with a higher sense of purpose and calling. “By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?” (1 John 3:16-17)
Hope Beyond Death: Many believe the sacrifices of soldiers contribute to a brighter, more hopeful future for our nation. However, Jesus’ death grants us the ultimate hope—eternal life and victory over sin and death, promising that we will reign with Him forever and escape every heartache (Revelation 21:1-22:21).
I must note: While it may be inappropriate to compare secular holidays with Jesus’ death during our time of communion on the 1st day of the week, this Memorial Day, as we reflect on the tragedies of this world and the noble sacrifices made for goodness, it feels fitting to express gratitude. And while it is noble that our fellow man has been willing to die for us, OUR UNDERSTANDING OF TRUE NOBILITY COMES FROM GOD, the creator and sustainer of all things.
If this resonates with you, I pray you will look to Jesus and thank Him for dying for you, providing hope for a better life beyond this world. We will each give an account to God for our deeds, and all of us have sinned! Let us demonstrate our thankfulness by surrendering our lives to Him (Matthew 7:21-23), putting our belief in Jesus as Savior and Lord (John 10:31-39), repenting of our sins (Luke 13:3), confessing our faith (Matthew 10:32-33), and being baptized for the forgiveness of our sins (Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38). In doing so, the Lord will add you to His church (Acts 2:47), the one He purchased with His blood (Acts 20:28; Ephesians 5:25-27)!
Just as one day each year is not enough to honor what our fellow man has done for us, a single moment or day is insufficient to commemorate what Jesus has done for me. Let us strive to devote our lives more fully to Him. Amen.
Isaiah chapters fifty-five through fifty-seven contain profound principles. God, through Isaiah, has just foretold the coming of the Suffering Servant, through whose sacrifice Israel will be saved (Isa. 49-54). Thus, Israel is encouraged to seek the LORD (Isa. 55:1-13). By keeping His justice and practicing righteousness, the LORD will bless them (Isa. 56:1). Even the eunuch who feels like “a dry tree” and the foreigners who join themselves to the LORD will be blessed and find mercy (Isa. 56:3-6). The LORD’s patience is remarkable, considering that His people have become “sons of the sorceress, the offspring of the adulterer and the harlot” (Isa. 57:3). They have sinned in various ways, sought other gods, and sent ambassadors everywhere but have not turned to God (Isa. 57:4-13). Nevertheless, the LORD will forgive those with a contrite heart (Isa. 57:14-21)!
Amid this discourse, we learn how irresponsible Israel’s leaders had been. One says, “Come, I will bring wine, and we will fill ourselves with intoxicating drink; tomorrow will be as today, and much more abundant” (Isa. 56:12). It is a tragic folly that many take for granted the opportunities afforded to us today, as if material blessings will continue to increase despite ungodliness. There are no guarantees concerning tomorrow, which should serve as a sober warning. May it also inspire us to accept the LORD’s pardon, His ways, His healing, and His guidance today!
Consider the angels of Heaven, who dwell in the very presence of God Almighty. They often instill fear in men when sent to minister to those who will inherit salvation. Yet, despite their magnificence, they do not rival the wondrous power of the Lord Jesus (Heb. 1:1-14). Our Lord, who took on human form, is not ashamed to call mankind His brethren and died so that we may receive help during temptation and power over death. Thus, we must pay more earnest attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away (Heb. 2:1-18).
The phrase “raise the ante” means to increase the cost or price, which reflects the entire book of Hebrews concerning the Law of Christ compared to the Law of Moses. Sobering lessons can be learned from the faith of Moses and the unfaithful generation that fell in the wilderness (Heb. 3:1-11; Psa. 95:7-11). Believers are warned to beware, lest there be in any of you “an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God” (Heb. 3:12). “But exhort one another while it is called ‘Today,’ lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin” (Heb. 3:13). We become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast until the end: “Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion” (Heb. 3:15).
The Hebrew readers were encouraged to heed the lessons from their forefathers who died in the wilderness because they sinned, did not obey, and could not enter the promised rest due to unbelief (Heb. 3:16-19). This message was directed to Jewish Christians who may have been tempted to revert to a form of Judaism out of fear of the persecution that afflicted Christians. It was very appealing for some to return to worshiping Jehovah as prescribed in the Law, which could shield them from suffering. However, this was impossible, as the Law of Christ replaced the Old Covenant.
The spiritual depth in this text is remarkable. It is fascinating to consider how David wrote of “Today” by the Spirit (Psa. 95:7; Heb. 3:7; 4:7) and how God spoke of “His rest” during David’s lifetime, foreshadowing the work of Christ. Additionally, the Hebrew writer reveals that Joshua did not provide the final rest for the people. Therefore, a Sabbath of rest remains for the people of God! Let us strive (TODAY) to enter that rest (Heb. 4:1-16)!
God presents many valuable lessons to learn from the past. He also teaches us the value of preparing for the future. A future in heaven, yes, but also preparing for the various stages of life on this earth. But what of the present? What about for “today?” What can we take care of “today” in these moments set before us?
Here We Are, Servants Today
In Nehemiah chapters nine and ten, the generation that returned from captivity held a great assembly. On the 24th day of the month, many expressed great remorse for their sins and the iniquities of their fathers (Neh. 9:1-2). While standing in their place, the Book of the Law was read for a fourth of the day, and another fourth, they worshiped the LORD their God (Neh. 9:3-4). Moreover, leaders among them cried out with a loud voice to God. The Levites also commanded the assembly to stand up and bless the LORD. That is when the children of Israel were reminded of their spiritual history: of blessings, opportunities, abilities, responsibilities, failures, and God’s faithfulness (Neh. 9:5-35). The people renewed their Covenant with the LORD (Neh. 9:36-10:39), declaring, “Here we are, servants today! And the land you gave to our father, to eat its fruit and its bounty, here we are, servants in it! And it yields much increase to the kings You have set over us, because of our sins; Also, they have dominion over our bodies and our cattle at their pleasure; and we are in great distress. And because of all this, we make a sure covenant and write it; Our leaders, our Levites, and our priests seal it.” (Neh. 9:36-38) Taking the time to approach God with reverence, humility, and mindfulness of our spiritual heritage with Him, along with rededicating ourselves to Him and His terms of the Covenant – we may do just that TODAY! We may also call upon God to take note of our resolve to serve Him TODAY!!
Today, If You Will Hear His Voice
The call to worship God and obey Him is inspiring but also necessitates responsibility and accountability. Psalm ninety-five implores readers to sing to the LORD, shout joyfully to the Rock of salvation, and come before His presence with thanksgiving! There are excellent reminders of God creating the hills, the sea, dry land, and mankind (Psa. 95:1-5). There is even an extolling of God’s special relationship with His people (Psa. 95:7). But His people were also warned to learn from their spiritual forefathers. “Oh come, let us worship and bow down; Let us kneel before the LORD our Maker. For He is our God, and we are the people of His pasture, and the sheep of His hand. Today, if you will hear His voice: Do not harden your hearts, as in the rebellion, as in the day of trial in the wilderness, When your fathers tested Me; They tried Me, though they saw My work.” (Psa. 95:6-9) The warning continues by telling how God grieved the generation that wandered in the wilderness because they went astray in their hearts. As a result, many of God’s covenant people did not enter His rest (Psa. 95:10-11). So, along with the grand call to worship the Almighty comes a warning against going astray within our hearts. Moreover, “Today, if you will hear His voice: Do not harden your hearts…” We can hear the LORD’s voice TODAY! With blessing and opportunity, accept the responsibility of sober thinking TODAY!!
God presents many valuable lessons to learn from the past. He also teaches us the value of preparing for the future. A future in heaven, yes, but also preparing for the various stages of life on this earth. But what of the present? What about for “today?” What can we take care of “today” in these moments set before us?
When God called Moses to the burning bush and commissioned him to be a leader among the Israelites so that He might rescue them from their Egyptian bondage, God instructed Moses to approach Him in a most holy manner.
5 Then He said, “Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.”
6 Moreover, He said, “I am the God of your father—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look upon God.
~ Exodus 3:3-6
This situation is reminiscent of how the Commander of the Lord’s army spoke to Joshua! As the period of invasion and conquest in biblical history began, a celestial being appeared to Joshua to encourage him. During their meeting, the Commander of the Lord’s army instructed Joshua to approach him in a holy manner also.
13 And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, a Man stood opposite him with His sword drawn in His hand. And Joshua went to Him and said to Him, “Are You for us or for our adversaries?”
14 So He said, “No, but as Commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.” And Joshua fell on his face to the earth and worshiped, and said to Him, “What does my Lord say to His servant?”
15 Then the Commander of the Lord’s army said to Joshua, “Take your sandal off your foot, for the place where you stand is holy.” And Joshua did so.
~ Joshua 5:13-15
Notice that the “Commander of the Army of the LORD” appears to Joshua, and in response, Joshua quickly falls on his face and worships this being. Like Moses at the burning bush, Joshua is instructed to take off his sandals (Exod. 3:5-6), and as their conversation continues, the text refers to this Commander as the LORD (Josh. 6:2). This indicates that the Commander of the Army of the LORD is a manifestation of God Himself, as angels do not accept worship from men (Rev. 19:10; 22:9)…
Joshua faced a significant challenge as the people of Israel approached the heavily fortified city of Jericho. He needed to be confident that those on Israel’s side were more powerful than those against them! God fights for His people, and a man with a drawn sword symbolizes His presence with Joshua!! For us today, we are aware that there is a spiritual battle being waged between God and Satan. When a person fights alongside God, victory is guaranteed! The Christian soldier is to be equipped with the armor of God (Eph. 6:10-20), while God’s Son serves as the captain of the Christian army (Heb. 2:10)!! Soldiers of Christ, arise.
Our God, He is Alive (Exod. 3:14)… Dare to stand like Joshua (Josh. 24:15)!
We Wish to See Jesus 