Reading
SAA Notes
Both the negative and positive aspects of poverty and wealth are covered in the opening verses of this chapter. Verse 14 is a good proverb for both husbands and wives to learn!
SJA Notes
* Almighty God, Your purposes are steadfast and stand firm – They cannot be moved.
“When a man’s folly brings his way to ruin, his heart rages against the LORD.”
People will be angry at God.
If we are honest, even as God’s people there are times when we can become angry at our Lord God.
Especially as here, when our own foolish decision-making brings about ruin.
God has given to us very clear direction.
Choose wisdom!
Wisdom is life. Folly is death. Wisdom is good for us. Folly is bad for us.
When we choose folly, our way is brought to ruin, what do we do?
God to the Lord. He knows.
Peter gives us good wisdom in 1 Peter 5,
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.”
If we choose folly, and suffer – Instead of anger at God for allowing things to go this way, let us humble ourselves under His hand.
He loves us. He cares for us. He works for our good (even painful though the refinement can be).
Humility is an excellent antidote for man’s anger.
* Holy God,
Please sink us in self that we might rise in Thee.
Please plant Your word deep within us and grow it, that we might be good soil and bear much fruit.
Please show us Jesus today.
Amen.