Day 40 - "In the Lord's hand the king's heart is a stream of water"
Today's Reading is Proverbs 21:1-15
1 In the Lord's hand the king's heart is a stream of water that he channels toward all who please him. 2 A person may think their own way is right, but the Lord weighs the heart. 3 To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice. 4 Haughty eyes and a proud heart—the unplowed field of the wicked—produce sin. 5 The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty. 6 A fortune made by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a deadly snare. 7 The violence of the wicked will drag them away, for they refuse to do what is right. 8 The way of the guilty is devious, but the conduct of the innocent is upright. 9 Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife. 10 The wicked crave evil; their neighbors get no mercy from them. 11 When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; by paying attention to the wise, one gets knowledge. 12 The Righteous One takes note of the house of the wicked and brings the wicked to ruin. 13 Whoever shuts their ears to the cry of the poor will also cry out and not be answered. 14 A gift given in secret soothes anger, and a bribe concealed in the cloak pacifies great wrath. 15 When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers.
Questions to Consider about the Reading
- What does verse 1 teach about God's sovereignty over earthly leaders, and how does this affect your view of current events?
- How do the themes of pride versus humility show up in these proverbs, and which ones challenge your own heart?
- What does this passage say about how we should treat the poor and vulnerable, and where might you need to respond?
- Which proverbs about planning, work, and integrity speak most directly to decisions you're facing?
What's One Thing God Wants You to Underline?
Ending Prayer
God, help me remember that you are in control even when earthly leaders seem out of control. Show me where pride has taken root in my heart and give me humility to see myself honestly. Help me to be generous to those in need and to work diligently with integrity. Guide my plans and help me choose what is right and just over what might seem easier or more profitable. Amen.