Scripture Union Daily Guide 24 May 2020Â
Topic: Be wise and discerning
Opening Prayer: My dear heavenly Father, as I study your word, let it be a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.
Scripture: Proverbs 6:1–19
Reflection
• Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow?
Outline: Verses 1–5 present the dangers and consequences of standing as guarantors for neighbours and people we don’t know very well. Acting as guarantor or referee, even for Christians, has landed many into difficult and terrible situations with bitter regrets. We must pray and think carefully before guaranteeing a loan for anyone. How can we free ourselves if doubts and uncertainty hang over our actions? (See vv.2–4).
Scripture Union Daily Guide 24 May 2020 – Be wise and discerning
The doctrine of careful planning and hard work may be very difficult to chew in today’s society, where the love of pleasure reigns supreme even among Christians. But God knowing that our brains and muscles need real exercise has left us an example and lesson through the ants, (vv.6–8). Hard work does not kill but indolence does! It has been well said that an idle mind is the devil’s workshop, and idle hands are his tools.
Compare this with vv.12–15. While prudence in planning ahead and working hard brings glory to God, it is easy to engage in what the Lord hates, such as in vv.16–19, a direct result of failing to plan ahead and work diligently. Compare vv.9–11 to Proverbs 24:30–34.
Practice/Word Application
• So What? Jesus Christ has modelled hard work for us, and he bids us do the works of him who sent him while it is day, because night is coming when no man can work, (John 9:4).
Persecutions
Persecutions are in varied forms and degrees. The ultimate purpose of persecution is not usually to destroy the individuals who are being persecuted but to eliminate the faith they profess. The persecutors want to dislodge Christ from the lives of the persecuted. In other words, they want to force the Christians to renounce their faith in Christ. Standing uncompromisingly for the faith we profess and in readiness to accept suffering and even death for this cause is an inescapable part of Christian life.
Prayer Points
• Teach me careful planning and hard work, dear Lord.
• Thank God for the blood of Jesus that was shed for our salvation and total deliverance.
• Offer a prayer of faith in line with Psalm 23:6
Read the Bible in one Year
2 Kings 10–12; Matt. 13:31–58
