Day 38 - "Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler"

**Today's Reading is Proverbs 20:1-14**

Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.

A king's wrath strikes terror like the roar of a lion; those who anger him forfeit their lives.

It is to one's honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.

Sluggards do not plow in season; so at harvest time they look but find nothing.

The purposes of a person's heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out.

Many claim to have unfailing love, but a faithful person who can find?

The righteous lead blameless lives; blessed are their children after them.

When a king sits in judgment, he winnows out all evil with his eyes.

Who can say, "I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin"?

Differing weights and differing measures—the Lord detests them both.

Even small children are known by their actions, so is their conduct really pure and upright?

Ears that hear and eyes that see—the Lord has made them both.

Do not love sleep or you will grow poor; stay awake and you will have food to spare.

"It's no good, it's no good!" says the buyer—then goes off and boasts about the purchase.

**Questions to Consider about the Reading**

1. What characters and relationships do you see in this passage, and how do they interact with wisdom and foolishness?

2. Which proverbs about self-control and discipline speak most directly to your current life situation?

3. How does verse 9 challenge our tendency to think we're better than we really are?

4. What does this passage teach us about honesty in our dealings with others, and where might you need to examine your own integrity?

**What's One Thing God Wants You to Underline?**

**Ending Prayer**

God, help me to be honest about my weaknesses and areas where I need your help. Give me the wisdom to avoid things that lead me astray and the discipline to work faithfully even when I don't feel like it. Show me how to be truly faithful and trustworthy in my relationships. Help me see myself clearly and rely on your grace rather than my own righteousness. Amen.