Today's Reading:
Zechariah 10:1-11:17
Mark 14:1-21
Proverbs 30:11-23
Click on Text Link to Read Online
Focus Verses:
Proverbs 30:7-9
7
"Two things I ask of you, O LORD; do not refuse me before I die: 8 Keep
falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but
give me only my daily bread. 9
Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, 'Who is the
LORD ?' Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my
God.
Insight:
Both poverty and riches test character and contentment. Each
presents unique challenges and temptations. Poverty can lead to theft
and dishonesty. Riches can lead to pride and disregard for God. A
prayerful humility and awareness of these pitfalls is essential to wise
living. Those who are wise desire to serve and honor God regardless of
the circumstances of life.
Response and Action:
I want to live with commitment to integrity and a will to honor
God. I want to follow Christ and depend upon God's provision and
guidance regardless of my circumstances. I will seek God above all else
and ask for his protection and provision. I will be on guard against
the temptations of both poverty and plenty. I will ask God for the
wisdom and character I need to honor him in any circumstance.
O
God, help me to turn away from what is wrong and to do what is right.
Lead me away from temptation and deliver me from evil. Provide for my
needs and protect me from discouragement. Help me to be humble and
reverent in times of plenty. Help me to be honest and faithful in times
of want. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.
Spiritual
Formation Verses: Philippians 4:12-13
12
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.
I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation,
whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Resources:
Neither Poverty Nor Riches: A Biblical Theology of Possessions
by Craig L. Blomberg
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