June 9: Proverbs 19-21

June 9, Proverbs 19-21

Proverbs 19 What is this all about? Simply put, it is all about pleasing and pursuing God and not yourself. Live for God and not yourself. Walk with integrity and don't blame God when your selfish desires get you into a heap of trouble. Desiring money over integrity and righteousness will never get you the results that you are looking for. Make righteous decisions and you will bless those around you and don’t nag to get get your way - it will drive others around you crazy. We are to be living this life in light of eternity because God is the Divine Judge and He tells us how we are to live. As you can tell, God’s will is done. We plan, but ultimately, God will have His way, which is the best way. Be teachable and you will have wisdom and knowledge from God. 

Proverbs 20 Don’t drink too much, it shows weakness and disobedience. Be a hard worker, not a lazy sluggard - you will starve and be miserable. We are called to be discerning with integrity - not a fool who chases worthless pursuits. Gossipers and slanderers - have nothing to do with them… they are not trustworthy or seeking the things of the Lord, but themselves. When living a life of integrity, we will appreciate the things that we have worked for, especially as we trust God for everything.

Proverbs 21 Divine Judgement comes up again, as this is paramount to our lives. God sees everything and God would much rather prefer that we do righteousness and justice than to sacrifice - He wants our hearts. Which is why the arrogant are an abomination to God - when we are arrogant we are saying that we don’t need God, which would fall under not being righteous, or having integrity, and ultimately = divine judgement. Why would God bring you into His Kingdom if you lived your life as if you didn't need Him? Being wise reaps many rewards! Take care of the poor too. 

Here is the theme of Proverbs again: “Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor.” 

To sum it all up:

• Divine Judgement: Why would God bring you into His Kingdom if you lived your life as if you didn't need Him? How are you living your life? Dependent on His will and guidance, or arrogant in your approach to Him?