Proverbs 31:10-11
Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies. The heart of her husband safely trusts her; so he will have no lack of gain.
MI: A godly wife is a great asset to her husband.
AI:WIVES: I will do my part to be a valuable asset to my husband. I will conduct myself ethically so that my husband can trust me. If I have broken his trust I will ask forgiveness. HUSBANDS: I will show my wife that she is valuable to me. I will trust her word and recognize her good qualities. I will treat her as the treasure I know she is.
Recommendation: This week reconnect by going on a date! If you are not married, encourage a married couple by helping to pay for their date or offering to watch their children.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 31 and journal areas you can grow!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Day Thirty
Proverbs 30:33
For as the churning of milk produces butter, and the wringing of the nose produces blood, so the forcing of wrath produces strife.
Main Idea: Dissension is a natural result of anger.
Action Item: I will make every effort to be an agent of peace. I will work to foster loving responses rather than outbursts of anger. I will recognize the consequences of my choices--broken relationships--before I react to circumstances in my life. I will act lovingly toward the people God has put before me. I will spend five minutes asking God to give me grace in the way I treat others.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 30 and journal areas you can grow!
For as the churning of milk produces butter, and the wringing of the nose produces blood, so the forcing of wrath produces strife.
Main Idea: Dissension is a natural result of anger.
Action Item: I will make every effort to be an agent of peace. I will work to foster loving responses rather than outbursts of anger. I will recognize the consequences of my choices--broken relationships--before I react to circumstances in my life. I will act lovingly toward the people God has put before me. I will spend five minutes asking God to give me grace in the way I treat others.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 30 and journal areas you can grow!
Monday, March 29, 2010
Day Twenty Nine
Proverbs 29:20
Do you see a man hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
Main Idea: Think before you speak.
Action Item: I will be careful to think before I speak. I will take time to consider how my words may impact others before blurting out the first thing that comes to mind. If I have been offensive or unintentionally hurtful toward someone else, I will seek their forgiveness. I will spend time today asking God to grant me the wisdom I need to think before I speak. If this is a big struggle for me, I will ask a trusted godly friend to help me in this area.
Go a little Deeper...
Read Proverbs 29 and journal areas you can grow!
Do you see a man hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
Main Idea: Think before you speak.
Action Item: I will be careful to think before I speak. I will take time to consider how my words may impact others before blurting out the first thing that comes to mind. If I have been offensive or unintentionally hurtful toward someone else, I will seek their forgiveness. I will spend time today asking God to grant me the wisdom I need to think before I speak. If this is a big struggle for me, I will ask a trusted godly friend to help me in this area.
Go a little Deeper...
Read Proverbs 29 and journal areas you can grow!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Day Twenty Eight
Proverbs 28:13
He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.
MI: Mercy is found in the confession of sin.
AI: I will spend five minutes - right now - asking God to reveal areas of sin in my life. I will then confess those sins to Him and ask for His mercy in my life. If part of my sin involves others, I will confess my sin sin to those I have wronged, and do what is necessary to restore those relationships. If I have a pattern of habitual sin in my life, I will seek out a trusted godly friend and ask them to help me overcome those sinful behaviors.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 28 and journal areas you can grow!
He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.
MI: Mercy is found in the confession of sin.
AI: I will spend five minutes - right now - asking God to reveal areas of sin in my life. I will then confess those sins to Him and ask for His mercy in my life. If part of my sin involves others, I will confess my sin sin to those I have wronged, and do what is necessary to restore those relationships. If I have a pattern of habitual sin in my life, I will seek out a trusted godly friend and ask them to help me overcome those sinful behaviors.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 28 and journal areas you can grow!
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Day Twenty Seven
Proverbs 21:17
As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.
MI: A godly friend can be a great help.
AI: I will seek out godly friends who can share in the journey of my growth. I will do this because I want to be an encouragement to their life. I know this will take work, but I also know that it will yield great results in both of our lives. I will commit to be honest with my friends and ask them to do the same for me. If my friends appear to be struggling, I will do everything I can to help and encourage them.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 27 and journal areas you can grow!
As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.
MI: A godly friend can be a great help.
AI: I will seek out godly friends who can share in the journey of my growth. I will do this because I want to be an encouragement to their life. I know this will take work, but I also know that it will yield great results in both of our lives. I will commit to be honest with my friends and ask them to do the same for me. If my friends appear to be struggling, I will do everything I can to help and encourage them.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 27 and journal areas you can grow!
Friday, March 26, 2010
Day Twenty Six
Proverbs 26:21
As charcoal is to burning coals, and wood to fire, so is a contentious man to kindle strife.
MI: An argumentative person fuels disunity.
AI: I will honestly evaluate my attitude. I will make choices that allow me to be an agent of positive change. I will recognize that I am not the final authority on all matters, therefore, I will be gracious to those around me. If there is an area of sin I need to address in another, I will do it in a loving, non-argumentative way. When I am in a disagreement I will seek the truth - not try to be "right". I will ask forgiveness from those who I have had an argumentative spirit.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 26 and journal areas you can grow!
As charcoal is to burning coals, and wood to fire, so is a contentious man to kindle strife.
MI: An argumentative person fuels disunity.
AI: I will honestly evaluate my attitude. I will make choices that allow me to be an agent of positive change. I will recognize that I am not the final authority on all matters, therefore, I will be gracious to those around me. If there is an area of sin I need to address in another, I will do it in a loving, non-argumentative way. When I am in a disagreement I will seek the truth - not try to be "right". I will ask forgiveness from those who I have had an argumentative spirit.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 26 and journal areas you can grow!
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Day Twenty Five
Proverbs 25:11-12
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. Like an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold is a wise rebuker to an obedient ear.
MI: Godly correction is beneficial to others.
AI: I will not turn a deaf ear to the ungodly actions of believers. I will love my follow Christians enough to lovingly confront wrong behavior. I will prayerfully consider how to communicate in a way that will bring about their growth and I will not cower behind my fear or insecurity. I spend 5 minutes asking God to grant me the wisdom to share His truth.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 25 and journal areas you can grow!
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. Like an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold is a wise rebuker to an obedient ear.
MI: Godly correction is beneficial to others.
AI: I will not turn a deaf ear to the ungodly actions of believers. I will love my follow Christians enough to lovingly confront wrong behavior. I will prayerfully consider how to communicate in a way that will bring about their growth and I will not cower behind my fear or insecurity. I spend 5 minutes asking God to grant me the wisdom to share His truth.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 25 and journal areas you can grow!
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Day Twenty Four
Proverbs 24:28-29
Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause, for would you deceive with your lips? Do not say, "I will do to him just as he has done to me; I will render to the man according to his work"
MI: Do not testify against your neighbor or seek revenge.
AI: I will be a gracious neighbor. I will choose not to embrace a victim mentality in my life. I will not look out for my best interest or seek revenge when I feel wronged. I will forgive my neighbor and spend five minutes today asking God to help me be gracious toward them. If I feel this issue must be addressed, I will seek godly counsel and act in a God-honoring way.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 24 and journal areas you can grow!
Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause, for would you deceive with your lips? Do not say, "I will do to him just as he has done to me; I will render to the man according to his work"
MI: Do not testify against your neighbor or seek revenge.
AI: I will be a gracious neighbor. I will choose not to embrace a victim mentality in my life. I will not look out for my best interest or seek revenge when I feel wronged. I will forgive my neighbor and spend five minutes today asking God to help me be gracious toward them. If I feel this issue must be addressed, I will seek godly counsel and act in a God-honoring way.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 24 and journal areas you can grow!
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Day Twenty Three
Proverbs 23:20-21
Do not mix with winebibbers, or with gluttonous eaters of meat; for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and drowsiness will clothe a man with rags.
MI: Choose your friends carefully.
AI: Today I will take inventory of my friends. I will not allow myself to be influenced by people who have a pattern of making poor choices. I will go one step further- today, I will lovingly confront my friends whose poor choices are a negative influence in my life. I will spend time praying that God would bring godly influences in my life. I will ask a trusted friend to help me seek positive friendships.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 23 and journal areas you can grow!
Do not mix with winebibbers, or with gluttonous eaters of meat; for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and drowsiness will clothe a man with rags.
MI: Choose your friends carefully.
AI: Today I will take inventory of my friends. I will not allow myself to be influenced by people who have a pattern of making poor choices. I will go one step further- today, I will lovingly confront my friends whose poor choices are a negative influence in my life. I will spend time praying that God would bring godly influences in my life. I will ask a trusted friend to help me seek positive friendships.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 23 and journal areas you can grow!
Monday, March 22, 2010
Day Twenty Two
Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.
MI: Godly training is vital to a child's growth.
AI: I will not allow my children's (disciple's) poor choices to go unnoticed. I will take hold of the reality that they are headed down a path of destruction apart from the grace of God and His using me to train them. I will set a godly example for their life today. if need be, I will take regular action to restore relationship with my child (disciple). I will spend five minutes today praying for my child(ren) (disciple).
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 22 and journal areas you can grow!
Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.
MI: Godly training is vital to a child's growth.
AI: I will not allow my children's (disciple's) poor choices to go unnoticed. I will take hold of the reality that they are headed down a path of destruction apart from the grace of God and His using me to train them. I will set a godly example for their life today. if need be, I will take regular action to restore relationship with my child (disciple). I will spend five minutes today praying for my child(ren) (disciple).
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 22 and journal areas you can grow!
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Day Twenty One
Proverbs 21:6
Getting treasures by a lying tongue is the fleeting fantasy of those who seek death.
MI: Dishonest gain has no eternal value.
AI: Today I will ensure that I am honest in all my dealings. I will be extremely diligent to ensure that I am not deceitful in the way I communicate or practice business. If I have knowingly deceived someone for my gain, I will make it right by paying them back in full. I will ask God to forgive me for my deceit and rest in His grace.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 21 and journal areas you can grow.
Getting treasures by a lying tongue is the fleeting fantasy of those who seek death.
MI: Dishonest gain has no eternal value.
AI: Today I will ensure that I am honest in all my dealings. I will be extremely diligent to ensure that I am not deceitful in the way I communicate or practice business. If I have knowingly deceived someone for my gain, I will make it right by paying them back in full. I will ask God to forgive me for my deceit and rest in His grace.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 21 and journal areas you can grow.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Day Twenty
Proverbs 20:4
The lazy man will not plow because of winter; he will beg during harvest and have nothing.
MI: Preparation and diligence are keys to success.
AI: No longer will I expect great success without hard work. I will evaluate my life and my goals. I will ask God to give me the strength to do the preparation work, so that I can succeed. I will take the time to write out my goals. I will then write down the steps of preparation it will take for me to accomplish those goals. I will spend five minutes praying over my goals and then get started!
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 20 and journal areas you can grow!
The lazy man will not plow because of winter; he will beg during harvest and have nothing.
MI: Preparation and diligence are keys to success.
AI: No longer will I expect great success without hard work. I will evaluate my life and my goals. I will ask God to give me the strength to do the preparation work, so that I can succeed. I will take the time to write out my goals. I will then write down the steps of preparation it will take for me to accomplish those goals. I will spend five minutes praying over my goals and then get started!
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 20 and journal areas you can grow!
Friday, March 19, 2010
Day Nineteen
Proverbs 19:3
The foolishness of man twists his way, and his heart frets against the LORD.
MI: It is foolish to rely on human understanding.
AI: Today I will seek God's wisdom in the decisions I make. I will not make choices based on what the world values. Instead, I will prayerfully consider what God would have me to do, regardless of its "worldly" (financial, social, political, etc.) implications. I will spend five minutes in prayer asking God to give me His wisdom concerning the decisions I make today.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 19 and journal areas you can grow!
The foolishness of man twists his way, and his heart frets against the LORD.
MI: It is foolish to rely on human understanding.
AI: Today I will seek God's wisdom in the decisions I make. I will not make choices based on what the world values. Instead, I will prayerfully consider what God would have me to do, regardless of its "worldly" (financial, social, political, etc.) implications. I will spend five minutes in prayer asking God to give me His wisdom concerning the decisions I make today.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 19 and journal areas you can grow!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Day Eighteen
Proverbs 18:1
A man who isolates himself seeks his own desire; he rages against all wise judgment.
MI: Wisdom is found in community.
AI: I will seek out community and accountability. I will seek the counsel of godly people in my life when making decisions. I will not become defensive when others present ideas contrary to mine. I will not discount others ideas because they are not in line with mine. Instead I will try to understand their perspective and see wisdom that their opinion affords, understanding that God gifts people uniquely.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 18 and journal areas you can grow!
A man who isolates himself seeks his own desire; he rages against all wise judgment.
MI: Wisdom is found in community.
AI: I will seek out community and accountability. I will seek the counsel of godly people in my life when making decisions. I will not become defensive when others present ideas contrary to mine. I will not discount others ideas because they are not in line with mine. Instead I will try to understand their perspective and see wisdom that their opinion affords, understanding that God gifts people uniquely.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 18 and journal areas you can grow!
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Day Seventeen
Proverbs 17:22
A merry heart does good like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.
MI: Choosing joy instead of depression or bitterness is good for me.
AI: Today I will focus on my attitude. I will be careful to choose joy in all circumstances God bring into my life. I will do this because I know that God has my best in mind. I will not fall prey to a depressed or bitter attitude because I know it is a poor reflection on my Creator. I will write down three situations I will choose joy in today! (Then I will do it!)
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 17 and journal areas you can grow!
A merry heart does good like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.
MI: Choosing joy instead of depression or bitterness is good for me.
AI: Today I will focus on my attitude. I will be careful to choose joy in all circumstances God bring into my life. I will do this because I know that God has my best in mind. I will not fall prey to a depressed or bitter attitude because I know it is a poor reflection on my Creator. I will write down three situations I will choose joy in today! (Then I will do it!)
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 17 and journal areas you can grow!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Day Sixteen
Proverbs 16:7
When a man's ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
MI: God-honoring choices result in peace.
AI: I will look across the landscape of my relationships and ask "where do I struggle to find peace?" As strained relationships come to mind, I will prayerfully ask God how I can be an agent of peace. I will spend five minutes today asking God to change my attitude toward those individuals. I will ask God to give me the strength to follow His ways. Today, I will seek restoration by asking for forgiveness for my part in strained relationships.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 16 and journal areas you can grow!
When a man's ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
MI: God-honoring choices result in peace.
AI: I will look across the landscape of my relationships and ask "where do I struggle to find peace?" As strained relationships come to mind, I will prayerfully ask God how I can be an agent of peace. I will spend five minutes today asking God to change my attitude toward those individuals. I will ask God to give me the strength to follow His ways. Today, I will seek restoration by asking for forgiveness for my part in strained relationships.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 16 and journal areas you can grow!
Monday, March 15, 2010
Day Fifteen
Proverbs 15:16-17
Better is a little fear of the LORD, than great treasure with trouble. Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a fatted calf with hatred.
MI: Contentment is found in the pursuit of God, not material things.
AI: I will take inventory of my life. What does my thought life, bank statements, and time spent say that I value? I will spend my whole day reflecting on my Creator - as I go about my day I will thank Him for the circumstances in it and see them as opportunities from Him for growth. I will give sacrificially - even if it means I cannot buy a luxury item.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 15 and journal areas you can grow!
Better is a little fear of the LORD, than great treasure with trouble. Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a fatted calf with hatred.
MI: Contentment is found in the pursuit of God, not material things.
AI: I will take inventory of my life. What does my thought life, bank statements, and time spent say that I value? I will spend my whole day reflecting on my Creator - as I go about my day I will thank Him for the circumstances in it and see them as opportunities from Him for growth. I will give sacrificially - even if it means I cannot buy a luxury item.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 15 and journal areas you can grow!
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Day Fourteen
Proverbs 14:21
He who despises his neighbor sins; but he who has mercy on the poor, happy is he.
MI: Love your neighbor.
AI: Today I will love my neighbor as myself. I will stop holding grudges, being judgmental, or engaging in petty fights with people God has brought in my path. I will show kindness and empathy toward my neighbor. It will be my goal to show them the love of Christ, no matter what their position in life, attitude or standing before God.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 14 and journal areas you can grow!
He who despises his neighbor sins; but he who has mercy on the poor, happy is he.
MI: Love your neighbor.
AI: Today I will love my neighbor as myself. I will stop holding grudges, being judgmental, or engaging in petty fights with people God has brought in my path. I will show kindness and empathy toward my neighbor. It will be my goal to show them the love of Christ, no matter what their position in life, attitude or standing before God.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 14 and journal areas you can grow!
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Day Thirteen
Proverbs 13:24
He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him promptly.
MI: A loving Parent {mentor) disciples their child(ren).
AI: No longer will I let my children {disciple} slide for every poor choice they make. Instead I will discipline the for their actions. When disciplining, I will not act harshly or react in an ungodly manner. Instead, I will promptly and lovingly provide them with consequences for their poor choices, I will remember to attack the heart of the problem and explain why their choice lacks wisdom.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 13 and journal areas you can grow!
He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him promptly.
MI: A loving Parent {mentor) disciples their child(ren).
AI: No longer will I let my children {disciple} slide for every poor choice they make. Instead I will discipline the for their actions. When disciplining, I will not act harshly or react in an ungodly manner. Instead, I will promptly and lovingly provide them with consequences for their poor choices, I will remember to attack the heart of the problem and explain why their choice lacks wisdom.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 13 and journal areas you can grow!
Friday, March 12, 2010
Day Twelve
Proverbs 12:25
Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad.
MI: A fearful heart leads to depression.
AI: Instead of worrying, I will embrace the reality that I know the One in control of everything. I will fully rely on God for all the concerns of my life. When I feel anxiety creep into my life I will quickly turn to my Redeemer and ask Him to remove it. I will seek godly counsel in order to experience joy.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 12 and journal areas you can grow!
Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad.
MI: A fearful heart leads to depression.
AI: Instead of worrying, I will embrace the reality that I know the One in control of everything. I will fully rely on God for all the concerns of my life. When I feel anxiety creep into my life I will quickly turn to my Redeemer and ask Him to remove it. I will seek godly counsel in order to experience joy.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 12 and journal areas you can grow!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Day Eleven
Proverbs 11:24-25
There is one who scatters, yet increases more; and there is one who withholds more than is right, but it leads to poverty. The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself.
MI: Generosity leads to gain.
AI: I will seek to be generous to others with my time and resources. I will ask myself, "how can I give?" not "what's in it for me?" I will be generous to someone today, knowing that God is my provider and He will care for my needs. I will place others above myself.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 11 and journal areas you can grow!
There is one who scatters, yet increases more; and there is one who withholds more than is right, but it leads to poverty. The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself.
MI: Generosity leads to gain.
AI: I will seek to be generous to others with my time and resources. I will ask myself, "how can I give?" not "what's in it for me?" I will be generous to someone today, knowing that God is my provider and He will care for my needs. I will place others above myself.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 11 and journal areas you can grow!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Day Ten
Proverbs 10:19
In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise.
MI: Wise people think first, then speak carefully.
AI: As I go throughout today, I will guard my tongue. I will think before I speak. I will take the time to consider what affect my words may have on someone else. I will be mindful of how my words reflect on me as a Christian.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 10 and journal areas you can grow!
In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise.
MI: Wise people think first, then speak carefully.
AI: As I go throughout today, I will guard my tongue. I will think before I speak. I will take the time to consider what affect my words may have on someone else. I will be mindful of how my words reflect on me as a Christian.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 10 and journal areas you can grow!
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Day Nine
Proverbs 9:10
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
MI: God is the source of wisdom and understanding.
AI: I will live every moment of today in light of the fact that God is watching me. I will regularly seek out His counsel through Bible study and prayer. I will seek out the counsel of godly people as I make decisions in my life. I will spend five minutes in prayer today asking God to give me understanding and make me wise.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 9 and journal areas you can grow!
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
MI: God is the source of wisdom and understanding.
AI: I will live every moment of today in light of the fact that God is watching me. I will regularly seek out His counsel through Bible study and prayer. I will seek out the counsel of godly people as I make decisions in my life. I will spend five minutes in prayer today asking God to give me understanding and make me wise.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 9 and journal areas you can grow!
Monday, March 8, 2010
Day Eight
Proverbs 8:6-8
Listen, for I will speak of excellent things, and from the opening of my lips will come right things; for my mouth will speak truth; wickedness is an abomination to my lips. All the words of my mouth are with righteousness; nothing crooked or perverse is in them.
MI: Wise people speak what is excellent, true, and righteous.
AI: I recognize that what I say is as important as what I do. Today I will put off gossip, lying, vulgarity, and perversion and put on speech that honors God. In addition, I will be careful to follow through on my commitments. I will be conscious of the fact that every word I speak is heard by the God of all creation.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 8 and journal areas you can grow!
Listen, for I will speak of excellent things, and from the opening of my lips will come right things; for my mouth will speak truth; wickedness is an abomination to my lips. All the words of my mouth are with righteousness; nothing crooked or perverse is in them.
MI: Wise people speak what is excellent, true, and righteous.
AI: I recognize that what I say is as important as what I do. Today I will put off gossip, lying, vulgarity, and perversion and put on speech that honors God. In addition, I will be careful to follow through on my commitments. I will be conscious of the fact that every word I speak is heard by the God of all creation.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 8 and journal areas you can grow!
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Day Seven
Proverbs 7:2
Keep my commandments and live, and my law as the apple of your eye. Bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart.
MI: Live your life according to God's Word.
AI: I will make Scripture memory a priority. I will start by memorizing Proverbs 3:5-6 today or by starting a Scripture journal of verses which require my regular focus. I will spend five minutes in prayer asking God to give me strength to keep His commandments and the passion to live according to the new heart He has given me.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 7 and journal areas you can grow!
Keep my commandments and live, and my law as the apple of your eye. Bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart.
MI: Live your life according to God's Word.
AI: I will make Scripture memory a priority. I will start by memorizing Proverbs 3:5-6 today or by starting a Scripture journal of verses which require my regular focus. I will spend five minutes in prayer asking God to give me strength to keep His commandments and the passion to live according to the new heart He has given me.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 7 and journal areas you can grow!
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Day Six
Proverbs 6:10-11
A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep - so shall your poverty come on you like a prowler, and your need like an armed man.
MI: Procrastination leads to poverty.
AI: Today will be a day of production! I will stop giving myself excuses. Today, I will accomplish something I have been putting off. I will clean the back room, read that book, confront my friend, start my diet, or share the gospel with my neighbor... whatever it is... Today is the day!
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 6 and journal areas you can grow!
A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep - so shall your poverty come on you like a prowler, and your need like an armed man.
MI: Procrastination leads to poverty.
AI: Today will be a day of production! I will stop giving myself excuses. Today, I will accomplish something I have been putting off. I will clean the back room, read that book, confront my friend, start my diet, or share the gospel with my neighbor... whatever it is... Today is the day!
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 6 and journal areas you can grow!
Friday, March 5, 2010
Day Five
Proverbs 5:22
His own iniquities entrap the wicked man, and he is caught in the cords of his sin.
MI: Poor choices inevitably lead to negative consequences.
AI: I will take an honest look in the mirror and address sin issues in my life. I will seek reconciliation for broken relationships. I will ask a trusted Christian friend to help me make better choices. I will be honest and face my sin head on. I will confess my sin to God and rest in the forgiveness of my Savior.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 5 and journal areas you can grow!
His own iniquities entrap the wicked man, and he is caught in the cords of his sin.
MI: Poor choices inevitably lead to negative consequences.
AI: I will take an honest look in the mirror and address sin issues in my life. I will seek reconciliation for broken relationships. I will ask a trusted Christian friend to help me make better choices. I will be honest and face my sin head on. I will confess my sin to God and rest in the forgiveness of my Savior.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 5 and journal areas you can grow!
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Day Four
Proverbs 4:23
Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.
MI: What you allow to influence your heart, affects your life.
AI: Today I will take inventory of my life and consider what captivates my heart. Are the things I hold most dear the things God values, or mere earthly value systems? Do I value having money more than giving money? Am I more interested in my TV time or my family time? Is my spouse the love of my life or is it my hobbies and toys? Today I will reorder my life to align my heart with godly values.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 4 and journal areas you can grow!
Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.
MI: What you allow to influence your heart, affects your life.
AI: Today I will take inventory of my life and consider what captivates my heart. Are the things I hold most dear the things God values, or mere earthly value systems? Do I value having money more than giving money? Am I more interested in my TV time or my family time? Is my spouse the love of my life or is it my hobbies and toys? Today I will reorder my life to align my heart with godly values.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 4 and journal areas you can grow!
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Day Three
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.
MI: If you trust God instead of yourself, He will show you His direction for your life.
AI: Going forward I will let God have the reigns of my life. Instead of trying to figure every detail of my life out and crying out to God when my plans fail, I will go to God before I plan my next move. I will submit to whatever He wants for my life and obey when I sense His direction.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 3 and journal areas you can grow!
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.
MI: If you trust God instead of yourself, He will show you His direction for your life.
AI: Going forward I will let God have the reigns of my life. Instead of trying to figure every detail of my life out and crying out to God when my plans fail, I will go to God before I plan my next move. I will submit to whatever He wants for my life and obey when I sense His direction.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 3 and journal areas you can grow!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Day Two
Proverbs 2:10-11
When wisdom enters your heart, and knowledge is pleasant to your soul, discretion will preserve you; understanding will keep you.
MI: Allowing your life to be shaped by wisdom and knowledge will keep you from evil.
AI: I will work to grow in knowledge by going deeper today and understanding the full context of this passage. Today I will ask myself who or what is influencing me and commit to allowing only godly influences in my life.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 2 and journal areas you can grow!
When wisdom enters your heart, and knowledge is pleasant to your soul, discretion will preserve you; understanding will keep you.
MI: Allowing your life to be shaped by wisdom and knowledge will keep you from evil.
AI: I will work to grow in knowledge by going deeper today and understanding the full context of this passage. Today I will ask myself who or what is influencing me and commit to allowing only godly influences in my life.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 2 and journal areas you can grow!
Monday, March 1, 2010
Day One
Proverbs 1:8-9
My son, hear the instruction of your father, and do not forsake the law of your mother; for they will be a graceful ornament on your head, and chains about your neck.
MI: Parental instruction is for your good.
AI: As my children (or those I mentor) make decisions, I will help them understand the consequences of their choices. I will focus on reinforcing good behavior and disciplining poor choices. I must be careful to consider my child (disciple) instead of myself, making sure my discipline is for their benefit, not my convenience.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 1 and journal areas you can grow!
My son, hear the instruction of your father, and do not forsake the law of your mother; for they will be a graceful ornament on your head, and chains about your neck.
MI: Parental instruction is for your good.
AI: As my children (or those I mentor) make decisions, I will help them understand the consequences of their choices. I will focus on reinforcing good behavior and disciplining poor choices. I must be careful to consider my child (disciple) instead of myself, making sure my discipline is for their benefit, not my convenience.
Go a little deeper...
Read Proverbs 1 and journal areas you can grow!
Understanding What You're Seeing
For each day there will be a key verse from a chapter of wisdom literature (Proverbs or Ecclesiastes). This is intended to highlight application for the day.
Below the verse you will see the initials MI. That stands for Main Idea, and is simply a restatement of the verse in easy to comprehend terms. A verse may present more than one main idea, however, we are going to focus on just one each day.
Next you will see the initials AI. The AI is your Action Item for the day. This is based on the main idea of the verse. Each day will have new action items and some will build on one another - so be sure to accomplish each Action Item in a timely manner.
Finally you will see Go a Little Deeper section, this is where you will read a chapter from Proverbs or Ecclesiastes. You may journal any insight you may glean from the text - try not to let this become an exercise in accomplishment...it is not about just getting it done, it is about allowing God to work through His Word in a life changing way!
Below the verse you will see the initials MI. That stands for Main Idea, and is simply a restatement of the verse in easy to comprehend terms. A verse may present more than one main idea, however, we are going to focus on just one each day.
Next you will see the initials AI. The AI is your Action Item for the day. This is based on the main idea of the verse. Each day will have new action items and some will build on one another - so be sure to accomplish each Action Item in a timely manner.
Finally you will see Go a Little Deeper section, this is where you will read a chapter from Proverbs or Ecclesiastes. You may journal any insight you may glean from the text - try not to let this become an exercise in accomplishment...it is not about just getting it done, it is about allowing God to work through His Word in a life changing way!
Beginning of the End
As you begin your walk in wisdom, consider the first few words of Proverbs, "To know wisdom and instruction, to perceive the words of understanding, to receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, judgment, and equity; to give prudence to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion - a wise man will hear and increase learning, and a man of understanding will attain wise counsel, to understand a proverb and an enigma, the words of the wise and their riddles."
Here we have the purpose of the book - to aspire to wisdom, pursue truth, to know and understand...and ultimately to change. So here is the question: As you begin to walk in the path of wisdom, what in your life needs to end? This is a blank in which only you can fill.
This will be the beginning of the end of me ______________________________!
(An area of sin, ignoring God's Word, seeing application for anyone but me)
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7
Here we have the purpose of the book - to aspire to wisdom, pursue truth, to know and understand...and ultimately to change. So here is the question: As you begin to walk in the path of wisdom, what in your life needs to end? This is a blank in which only you can fill.
This will be the beginning of the end of me ______________________________!
(An area of sin, ignoring God's Word, seeing application for anyone but me)
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7
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