Reading With the People of God #14 ProverbsSample

Faith, Fools, and Folly (Proverbs 17)

The Book of Proverbs is fascinating in its timelessness, the plain truth of its contents, and its flawless insights into the human condition. It is a dependable reference to weigh the direction one may take in the course of their life, for the better and for the worse. The verses are compact, usually two lines, the second one either to contrast or reinforce the first. Sage knowledge is in every word, line, and chapter; it is as relevant today as when King Solomon was gathering the wisdom of the world in the tenth century BC. Proverbs 17 continues the collection of the two-line guideposts, begun in chapter 10 and continuing through chapter 22, of a life guided by the “fear of the Lord” as in Proverbs 1:7. It is like a roadmap, if you will, for a life of peace, good health, and success. Using plain language and similes that are universally understood, even across centuries and cultures, Proverbs stands as practical help and divine advice for daily living through the Holy Scriptures. Chapter 17 ends with one of my favorites…

”Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue.”Proverbs 17:28 (NIV)

Paul’s Planning and Preparation (1 Corinthians 16)

Nearing the end of his first letter to the church in Corinth, Paul lays out the preparations he wants to be done before he visits. He takes up the collection every week, so the time he spends there will be more productive with the ministry than taking up a hurried collection. These gifts were to be sent to Jerusalem with the men of Corinth approved to serve and support God’s people there. Paul wanted to spend his time ordaining and blessing them with letters of introduction. There is the interesting placement of the exhortation in 1 Corinthians 16:13, which is nevertheless an encouragement to boldness in love.

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love.”1 Cor 16:13 (NIV)

* Primer Contributed by Matt Harry, Elder Emeritus, Cornerstone Community Church of Chowchilla