Our fellowship in the word

Schedule for July 26-August 1, 2010

The Book of Proverbs is a three-part collection of wisdom expressed in the rhyming of ideas characteristic of Hebrew poetry. It extols the value of wisdom and is thought to have been prepared for nobility in training.

MON    Proverbs 25: In the Hebrew version, most of these sayings of Solomon (Prov.25-29) lack the comparative words, "as, so, like, but," etc., probably to make the reader think. Try reading some of them without these words. The theme of conflict dominates these short, pithy statements.

TUE    Proverbs 26: A large section on dealing with fools challenges us with contrary advice (vv.4-5) showing that few matters in life have simple, one-line solutions. Sluggards are parodied and those who like to stir up strife are shown the consequences of their actions

WED   Proverbs 27: Good relationships are encouraged and are maintained through the investment of wisdom and diligent care. Similarly, life itself is maintained through wise investment and diligent care (vv.23-27).

THU    Proverbs 28: The themes of morality, righteousness and religion are explored through the actions of king and commoner alike. While the immorality of a king has wider consequences than that of the average person, there is no justification for anyones immorality. In summary, "Blessed is the one who fears the LORD always..." (v.14).

FRI      Proverbs 29: The lives of the influential produce varied fruit based on their character: the wise and righteous produce rejoicing, the wicked and foolish, grief; just kings bless their kingdom, but unjust kings ruin it; wise parents train their children with discipline, unwise parents neglect them to their own shame.

SAT    Proverbs 30: Agur promotes humility before the LORD and His Word. In contrast are the arrogant, they curse others and make demands. Four groups of "four things" reveal virtues and vices, unusual twists, and surprisingly, the places where wisdom and confidence reside.

SUN     Proverbs 31: King Lemuel presents his mother's teaching. She advises the king to live with temperance because of his responsibilities. She commends to him the virtues of a "truly capable woman", one who takes full advantage of every opportunity afforded her.