Bible Reading Plan | Devotion for the week of August 22, 2021

Weekly reading: Proverbs 22-28
Passages referenced: Psalm 1:1-2; Proverbs 22:4,9,11, 24:14; Isaiah 9:6

Since we’re halfway through the book of Proverbs, you know by now that the value of wisdom is the main theme throughout this book. Wisdom comes to life as a character in Proverbs 8 and 9 and continues to develop many characteristics throughout the rest of the book.

As you read through this week’s chapters, take some time to write down the traits of wisdom that stand out to you.

Chapter 22 alone describes several characteristics of the wise:

Proverbs 22:4 considers humility:

Humility is the fear of the Lord;

its wages are riches and honor and life.

Proverbs 22:9 mentions generosity:

The generous will themselves be blessed,

for they share their food with the poor.

Proverbs 22:11 might be my favorite and says:

One who loves a pure heart and who speaks with grace

will have the king for a friend.

Are there any people in your life who display these qualities? Add a list of their names to your notes from above.

I’m fortunate to have parents and grandparents who I could turn to for wisdom. My mother specifically taught me that standing strong in my faith meant knowing God’s Word and seeking wise counsel. Not only does Proverbs speak to this, but it is emphasized throughout the Bible as well.

Psalm 1:1-2 says: “Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night.”

It’s very clear in verses like this that in order to gain wisdom, you have to spend time with and seek advice from wise people and straight from the Bible. In our modern world, there are so many channels and outlets to receive information, but these verses are a good reminder to take stock in who and where we seek wisdom and advice.

Go back to your list of qualities and the people who display them. Are these the same people you turn to when you need advice? If not, why do you think that is? And what changes could you make to better align these?

Of course, these verses were written well before Jesus was born and came to Earth as our “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6) But isn’t it beautiful how King Solomon and the other authors of Proverbs are preparing us to seek wisdom? Once Jesus comes to Earth, we have a perfect example of knowledge and truth.

Proverbs 24:14 says: “Know also that wisdom is like honey for you: if you find it, there is a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.” As we navigate the rest of this week, let’s pray that we embody that truth. – Laura Long

• Do you have questions about this week’s Bible reading? We’d love to help! Rather than relying on the first thing, you find on the internet, email us at biblequestions@warsaw.cc. We are more than happy to answer that nagging question you have, provide you with some clarity, or point you in the right direction for further study.