by Kala Loptien

Guide for Daily Living

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The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord.
Proverbs 16:1 English Standard Version

The book of Proverbs is brimming with poetic life principles. But it’s more than just an expressive advice column or another “how-to” book vying for our attention. Author, King Solomon, was known for his wisdom. Though like all of God’s people, even the most God-fearing and discerning were wrought with serious sin issues.

In spite of his struggles, the Lord was good to King Solomon. Sound familiar? He was filled with wisdom. The kind that prompted him to record an entire instruction guide for daily living that would transcend time. It was God at work, putting him to work. In these words, we learn how to be in step with our God along the path that HE has established. We are told how to raise children, how to handle business, the benefits of grace and the destruction that follows pride and greed. Proverbs provides the concrete examples we need for upright living, along with very blunt descriptions for what the Lord detests.

As Paul reminds us in the epistles, all of Scripture was inspired by God–to be used for teaching and correction. If we ever feel stuck, unsure about where we are heading; needing a reminder about the standards and expectations as redeemed people; in need of Godly wisdom, redirection or guidance, we have answers. Isn’t that amazing? In a world that is stressed by constantly seeking more — status, approval, success, knowledge, identity, answers — we have it right at our fingertips. We have His absolute Word. We have spirit-led prayer. We are at work every day, doing the Lord’s work in all we do.

God, so often we get in the way and make things messy. Even so, YOU are the one at work, directing our steps, leading to the good plans and works you’ve prepared. Keep us steadfast, with our eyes fixed on you and your wise Words. Amen.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado