When You Feel Like an Outsider
Heart Happy
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Many years ago, my husband John and I found ourselves searching for a new church home. With a preschooler, a toddler, and a baby on the way, most Sundays felt like a balancing act—and honestly, I spent more time out of the sanctuary than in it.
One Sunday, we visited a large church with a cry room. I quietly slipped in with my toddler, my heart already worn thin. As I entered, I felt every mom in the room glance my way. No one was unkind, but I didn’t feel seen either. I settled on the sofa, found a toy for my daughter, and listened to the other moms continue their conversation—without acknowledging me.
I didn’t expect a welcome committee. But I hoped for connection. And instead, I felt invisible.
Looking back now, I’m sure they were just curious about the new mom who had wandered in. Still, I remember the sting of that moment.
The whisper that said, You don’t belong here.
A few years later, I took my youngest kids to a Vacation Bible School at a church we don’t attend, and again I felt it—that same whisper. Families greeted each other, grouped together, and I stood off to the side wondering if anyone noticed me at all.
Whether you’re a young mom, a single adult, a visitor, or someone walking into church with emotional baggage no one can see—feeling like an outsider is something most of us have experienced. But in those moments, God’s truth speaks louder than any insecurity.
5 Truths to Remember When You Feel Like an Outsider
1. You can still choose connection.
Even when it feels awkward or uncomfortable, God invites us to reach out. One smile, one hello, one moment of courage—it can change everything.
“A friend loves at all times.” —Proverbs 17:17
2. You’re not alone in feeling alone.
Chances are someone else is standing on the sidelines too. Instead of shrinking back, let’s look around for someone else who needs a friendly face.
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.” —1 Thessalonians 5:11
3. Jesus understands what it means to be left out.
Born in a stable. Rejected by His hometown. Misunderstood by the very people He came to save. Jesus sees you—and He walks with you.
“He was despised and rejected by men, a man of suffering who knew what sickness was.” —Isaiah 53:3
4. Prayer changes perspective.
When insecurity rises up, prayer settles it down. Invite Jesus into your awkwardness and let His peace fill the gaps.
“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything.” —Philippians 4:6–7
5. We are called to welcome others just as Christ welcomed us.
It’s not just about being included—it’s about including others. We are Christ’s ambassadors, and hospitality is part of His heart.
“Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” —Romans 15:7
Will You Reach Out?
I’m thankful that over the years, those “outsider” moments have become fewer. But when they do creep in, I now have a game plan. Instead of retreating, I try to reach out. Because someone else might need the exact welcome I wish I had received.
So what about you? Have you seen someone at church who stands alone? A newcomer who seems unsure where to go? A visitor wrangling kids with tired eyes?
Smile. Say hello. Ask their name. Offer a seat or a helping hand. These small acts may seem simple, but they reflect the heart of Jesus more than we know.
Let’s be people who notice the unnoticed.
Let’s be the welcome someone’s heart is quietly hoping for.
Let’s create a church where no one stands alone.
With joy and grace,
Tricia Goyer
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
May 26
I Kings 4, Psalm 72, Psalm 127
Abundance in the Land
In today’s readings, we explore the reign of King Solomon, focusing on his officials, governors, and the remarkable peace and prosperity of his kingdom.
1 Kings 4 details Solomon’s officials and governors, who managed provisions for his vast kingdom. Each of the twelve district governors ensured the kingdom had ample food for one month a year. The people of Judah were numerous and content, enjoying plenty to eat and drink. Solomon’s rule extended from the Euphrates River to Egypt, and neighboring kingdoms paid him tribute. “God gave Solomon very great wisdom and understanding, and knowledge as vast as the sands of the seashore” (1 Kings 4:29). Solomon composed 3,000 proverbs and 1,005 songs and spoke with authority on various subjects, attracting people from all around to hear his wisdom.
Psalm 72 is a prayer for the king, asking God to grant the king a heart for righteousness, a hand for justice, and compassion for the poor and needy. This psalm, attributed to either Solomon or David, reflects a heart of humility and recognition that all good things come from God.
Psalm 127, a song of ascents written by Solomon, emphasizes that everything we have is from the Lord. It highlights the blessing of children, describing them as a gift and reward from God.
Word of the Day: Abundance
Definition: Ample quantity, affluence, and wealth, plentifulness.
Praise God in Times of Plenty
Have you ever experienced a time when everything seemed to be going well? This was the case for King Solomon in Israel. He had an abundance of wisdom, population, wealth, and peace. This prosperity resulted not from Solomon’s military victories but from the wise leadership of his father, King David, and God’s providence.
God’s promise to Abraham in Genesis 22:17 was fulfilled during Solomon’s reign: “I will certainly bless you. I will multiply your descendants beyond number, like the stars in the sky and the sand on the seashore. Your descendants will conquer the cities of their enemies.” Israel thrived and grew, as David prayed in Psalm 72:6-7, “May the king’s rule be refreshing like spring rain on freshly cut grass, like the showers that water the earth. May all the godly flourish during his reign. May there be abundant prosperity until the moon is no more.”
When we’re doing well and have plenty, we should praise God for everything, including our children. It’s essential to be humble and thankful, recognizing that God’s goodness and mercy allow us to enjoy life. However, we must also remember that in times of abundance, we can easily forget our need for God.
Recognizing Abundance in Our Lives
What does abundance look like in your life? It might be time—what I wouldn’t give for a few more hours in my day! Maybe you have more money than you need, an abundance of creativity, leadership abilities, love, or friends.
Think of a flourishing garden in the fall, reaping an abundant harvest of vegetables and fruit. The rain, like in Psalm 72, nurtures the plants, and the right balance of sun and clouds allows them to thrive. You tend to your garden, pulling weeds and caring for it throughout the summer. As you harvest, prepare food for your family, share with friends, and preserve some for the winter, you experience true abundance. God blesses us, and we do some of the work.
Personal Takeaway
Reflect on Solomon’s reign and the importance of seeking wisdom, humility, and obedience in your own life. How can you apply these principles to experience God’s blessings and prosperity?
Explore the depths of King Solomon’s wisdom and God’s blessings in our Daily Bible Podcast. Tune in for more insights and inspiration!
May 27
Proverbs 1-4
The Importance of Wisdom
The book of Proverbs is a rich collection of wisdom literature, primarily attributed to Solomon. It’s structured into six units, with chapters 1-9 serving as a general prologue. A recurring theme is that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, a phrase unique to Israelite poetry.
Proverbs 4:13 urges us to "Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life."
Proverbs 1
Proverbs 1:8-9 emphasizes the importance of parental teaching:
“Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. They are a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck.”
Key lessons include:
- The importance of teaching our children about dangers and wisdom.
- The consequences of ignoring wisdom: “For they hated knowledge and chose not to fear the LORD. They rejected my advice and paid no attention when I corrected them. Therefore, they must eat the bitter fruit of living their own way, choking on their own schemes.” (Proverbs 1:29-31)
Proverbs 2
This chapter lists desirable attributes to seek: wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and insight. God provides these to protect and guide the faithful.
Proverbs 3
Proverbs 3:21 encourages us to maintain common sense and discernment:
“My child, don’t lose sight of common sense and discernment. Hang on to them, for they will refresh your soul. They are like jewels on a necklace.”
Proverbs 3:5-6 is a well-known passage:
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Proverbs 4
A reinforcement of earlier lessons: don’t forget wisdom and guard your heart diligently. The heart is described as the wellspring of life, emphasizing the need for vigilance in what influences it.
Word of the Day: Wisdom
Definition: The quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment; the quality of being wise.
Seeking Wisdom in Today’s World
In an age of information, true wisdom is often overlooked. Young people today may fill their minds with fleeting entertainment rather than seeking lasting wisdom. To seek wisdom:
- Fear of the Lord: Have reverence and awe for God.
- Accept Correction: Be open to learning from mistakes and receiving guidance.
Proverbs 3:11-12 reminds us:
“My child, don’t reject the LORD’s discipline, and don’t be upset when he corrects you. For the LORD corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights.”
Guarding Our Hearts
Proverbs urges us to guard our hearts against negative influences. Be mindful of what we consume and who we spend time with.
“As Satan keeps special watch here, so must we keep special watch as well. If the citadel is taken, the whole town must surrender. If the heart is captured, the whole man—affections, desires, motives, pursuits—will be handed over.”
Jerry Bridges
Personal Takeaway
Reflect on how you can apply these principles of wisdom and vigilance in your life. How can you seek God’s wisdom and guard your heart against distractions?
May 28
Proverbs 5-7
Focusing on Preparation
Today, our focus is on three chapters from the Book of Proverbs: Proverbs 5, 6, and 7. These chapters are rich in wisdom and offer practical advice for living a life pleasing to God. As we delve into these passages, we’ll highlight the Word of the Day: Prepare, and draw out personal takeaways to make the teachings relevant to our daily lives.
Proverbs 5: The Peril of Immorality
In Proverbs 5, we find a father urgently warning his son about the dangers of succumbing to the allure of an immoral woman. Her lips may seem sweet like honey, but in the end, she leads to destruction and death. The father’s plea is clear: avoid the temptation at all costs and stay true to the one God has given you.
This chapter resonates deeply as it highlights the deceptive nature of sin. Sexual sin, in particular, can quickly ensnare a person, bringing regret and pain. The analogy to Eve’s temptation in the Garden of Eden reminds us that sin often appears desirable but ultimately leads to ruin. God sees every path we take, and He examines our actions. This is a call to stay vigilant and avoid the traps of sin, whatever form they may take.
Proverbs 6: Practical Wisdom for Daily Life
Proverbs 6 offers a wealth of practical advice, cautioning against unwise financial agreements and encouraging diligence and hard work. The example of the industrious ant serves as a reminder of the value of preparation and planning. This chapter also addresses the severe consequences of adultery, emphasizing the destruction it brings to one’s life and reputation.
A notable part of this chapter is the list of seven things that the Lord detests:
- Haughty eyes (pride)
- A lying tongue
- Hands that shed innocent blood
- A heart that devises wicked schemes
- Feet that are quick to rush into evil
- A false witness who pours out lies
- A person who stirs up conflict in the community
These verses remind us that sin is multifaceted, encompassing our actions, words, thoughts, attitudes, and the impact we have on others. Understanding what God hates helps us align our lives with His will and seek His forgiveness when we fall short.
Proverbs 7: The Power of Temptation
Proverbs 7 continues the theme of avoiding sexual immorality, with the father urging his son to guard his heart and obey God’s commands. The seductive tactics of the immoral woman are vividly described, highlighting how temptation can be alluring but ultimately destructive.
The commentary on this chapter underscores the power of experience to shape our habits. Surrendering to temptation strengthens its hold on us, making it increasingly difficult to resist in the future. This is a powerful reminder of the importance of building godly habits and relying on God’s strength to overcome temptation.
Word of the Day: Prepare
Definition: To make ready beforehand.
The wisdom in Proverbs serves to prepare us by teaching what is right and wrong, and giving advice on how to please God. As Proverbs 6:20-22 says:
“My son, keep your father’s command and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. Bind them always on your heart; fasten them around your neck. When you walk, they will guide you; when you sleep, they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you.”
Preparation is a theme that runs throughout our lives. Whether it’s planning a garden, preparing for a trip, or guiding our children, taking the time to prepare is crucial.
Personal Takeaway
Reflecting on these chapters, I am reminded of the importance of preparation in my spiritual journey. Just as my parents prepared the garden for planting, I need to prepare my heart to receive God’s wisdom. This involves studying His Word, seeking His guidance, and building habits that honor Him.
Moreover, understanding what God hates and recognizing the seductive nature of sin helps me stay vigilant. I am thankful for Jesus, who faced God’s wrath on our behalf and offers forgiveness and freedom from sin. With the Holy Spirit’s help, I can live differently, aligning my life with God’s will.
Proverbs 5, 6, and 7 provide timeless wisdom that prepares us to navigate life’s challenges. By embracing these teachings, we can avoid the pitfalls of sin and live in a way that honors God. Let’s take to heart the lessons from these chapters, prepare ourselves with God’s wisdom, and strive to live lives marked by righteousness and integrity.
What insights did you gain from today’s readings? How can you apply the wisdom of Proverbs in your daily life? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
May 29
Proverbs 8-10
Seeking the Wisdom of God
Welcome to today’s blog post accompanying the Daily Bible Podcast! Our focus is on three chapters from the Book of Proverbs: Proverbs 8, 9, and 10. These chapters are rich in wisdom and provide practical advice for living a life pleasing to God. As we delve into these passages, we’ll highlight the Word of the Day: Seeking, and draw out personal takeaways to make the teachings relevant to our daily lives.
Proverbs 8: The Beauty of Wisdom
G. Campbell Morgan described Proverbs 8 as having “nothing greater or grander in all the Biblical literature, as setting forth the beauty and grace of that wisdom which has the fear of Jehovah as its chief part.” In this chapter, we turn from the adulterous woman to Lady Wisdom, who offers invaluable treasures. Wisdom calls out to us from hilltops and town gates, urging us to embrace what is right, true, and wholesome. Her gifts—knowledge and understanding—are more precious than rubies, silver, or gold. Wisdom teaches us to hate evil, pride, arrogance, corruption, and perverse speech. The close connection between wisdom and God brings joy to those who follow, listen, watch, and wait for her.
Proverbs 9: The Invitation of Wisdom and Folly
In Proverbs 9, wisdom and folly are personified, each inviting us to follow them. Wisdom hosts a feast in her seven-pillared mansion, symbolizing perfection and stability. In contrast, Folly lures the naive with stolen pleasures, leading them toward death and the grave.
Proverbs 9:12 states,
“If you become wise, you will be the one to benefit. If you scorn wisdom, you will be the one to suffer.” This chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom, understanding, and virtuous behavior, which lead to life.
This theme of a banquet is echoed in Matthew 22, where Jesus describes a great banquet and the invitations extended. Both passages highlight the choice between following wisdom or folly, representing godly versus worldly concerns.
Proverbs 10: The Proverbs of Solomon
With Proverbs 10, the book transitions from introductory teachings to a collection of Solomon’s wise sayings. These short, insightful proverbs often compare and contrast with each other, providing practical guidance for daily living.
For example, Proverbs 10:31 says,
“The mouth of the godly person gives wise advice, but the tongue that deceives will be cut off.” Similarly, Proverbs 10:12 states, “Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all sins,” which is echoed in 1 Peter 4:8: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”
Word of the Day: Seeking
Definition: Attempting to find something.
Proverbs 8:34-36 illustrates what seeking looks like:
“Blessed are those who listen to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For those who find me find life and receive favor from the LORD. But those who fail to find me harm themselves; all who hate me love death.”
Seeking wisdom involves listening, watching daily, and waiting. It’s akin to a scholar waiting eagerly at the door of a school, longing to learn what is good and right. We are always seeking something, whether it’s knowledge, entertainment, or comfort. True seeking should focus on godly pursuits rather than self-indulgence.
Psalm 27:4 reflects a heart that seeks God:
“The one thing I ask of the LORD— the thing I seek most— is to live in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, delighting in the LORD’s perfections and meditating in his Temple.”
Personal Takeaway
Reflecting on these chapters, I see the profound importance of seeking wisdom in my spiritual journey. Just as my parents prepared our garden, I need to prepare my heart to receive God’s wisdom. This involves studying His Word, seeking His guidance, and building habits that honor Him.
Understanding what God hates and recognizing the seductive nature of sin helps me stay vigilant. I am grateful for Jesus, who faced God’s wrath on our behalf and offers forgiveness and freedom from sin. With the Holy Spirit’s help, I can align my life with God’s will and seek to live differently.
Seeking Wisdom Daily
Proverbs 8:34-36 encourages us to seek wisdom actively. This means listening, watching daily, and waiting for wisdom. Just as a scholar eagerly awaits learning, we should eagerly seek God’s wisdom in our lives.
Modeling Seeking for Our Children
Solomon grew up observing his father David’s example, which profoundly impacted him. As parents, our duty is to model seeking God for our children. Ephesians 6:4 instructs fathers to bring up their children “in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” Our actions speak louder than words, and seeking God benefits us and sets an example for the next generation.
Proverbs 8, 9, and 10 provide timeless wisdom that prepares us to navigate life’s challenges. By embracing these teachings, we can avoid the pitfalls of sin and live in a way that honors God. Let’s take to heart the lessons from these chapters, prepare ourselves with God’s wisdom, and strive to live lives marked by righteousness and integrity.
What insights did you gain from today’s readings? How can you apply the wisdom of Proverbs in your daily life? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
May 30
Proverbs 11-13
Encouragement when Hopes are Deferred
In today’s readings, we dive into the wisdom of Solomon in Proverbs 11, 12, and 13. Solomon, known as the wisest man in all the world, shares timeless truths through these chapters. The Hebrew word for wisdom, “khokhmah” (hook-mah), signifies not just knowledge but also skill and applied knowledge. As we explore these proverbs, let’s focus on how to apply these teachings in our daily lives. Remember, these proverbs are probabilities, not promises. They guide us on how to live rightly and treat each other kindly in a broken world.
Proverbs 11: The Way of the Righteous and the Wicked
Proverbs 11 is filled with contrasts between the righteous and the wicked. It emphasizes that godly people are rewarded while evil people are punished. Here are a few highlights:
- Humility and Wisdom: “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” (Proverbs 11:2)
- Righteous Living: “The righteousness of the blameless makes their paths straight, but the wicked are brought down by their own wickedness.” (Proverbs 11:5)
The humble person knows that walking in God’s ways is the right way to live. We are encouraged to be gracious, giving, truthful, and honest, avoiding gossip and deceit.
Proverbs 12: Conduct and Character
“The wicked die and disappear, but the family of the godly stands firm.” (Proverbs 12:7)
Proverbs 12 reflects on the conduct and character of people and the consequences of their actions. It provides a detailed description of the godly:
- The plans of the godly are just.
- The words of the godly save lives.
- The godly care for their animals.
- The godly are well-rooted and bear their own fruit.
- The godly escape trouble.
- No harm comes to the godly.
- The godly give good advice to their friends.
- The way of the godly leads to life.
While these statements are generally true, we recognize that godly people still face trouble and harm. However, those who follow God experience fewer of these difficulties compared to those who don’t.
Proverbs 13: Listening to Wise Advice
“Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.” (Proverbs 13:20)
Proverbs 13 begins with a father advising his son to listen and accept wise correction. This chapter underscores the importance of choosing wise companions and heeding their advice.
Steven Curtis Chapman’s song “Walk with the Wise” beautifully encapsulates this idea:
“If we walk with the wise, we will grow wise,
And if we walk in the light, then our path will be bright.”
This song reminds us that wisdom is often passed down from those who have already walked the path we are on. By learning from their experiences, we too can grow wise.
Word of the Day: Defer
Definition: To put off to a later time; postpone.
“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life.” (Proverbs 13:12)
When our hope isn’t in the Lord but in earthly things, we can easily grow weary. Deferred hope can lead to a heavy heart. I have experienced this personally, as I’m sure many of you have. But even when we can’t see it, God has a plan, and we must remain faithful that He will bring that plan to fruition.
One commentary I read stated, “People can bear frustration only so long; they must have encouragement to continue. Perhaps believers should make it part of their task to help others realize their hopes whenever possible.” This is profoundly true. Encouragement can be scarce, but it is crucial. Reflecting on this verse now, I wonder if my hope has been misplaced in the past, wanting God to answer my prayers in my timing, not His.
Now, looking back, I see how life has bloomed in unexpected ways. There is gratitude and awe for all He has provided. If you feel heartsick from deferred hope, grieve the loss but set your hope on our Savior. He wants to fulfill our dreams and longings if they align with His will.
Personal Takeaway
God’s Word helps us navigate personal situations and emotions. It provides examples and teachings that guide our lives. Charles Spurgeon wisely said, “Nobody ever outgrows Scripture; the book widens and deepens with our years.” The Bible remains relevant, offering comfort, direction, and hope as we grow in understanding.
The more I read God’s Word, the more I want to read it. Let’s immerse ourselves in these proverbs, learn from them, and apply their wisdom to our lives. By doing so, we align ourselves with God’s will and experience the richness of His blessings.
May 31
Proverbs 14-16
Reverence for God in our Daily Lives
Today’s readings take us through Proverbs 14, 15, and 16, offering profound insights into the “fear of the Lord”—a deep reverence for God’s knowledge, power, and direction. This reverence impacts our actions, decisions, and character, guiding us to live with integrity and righteousness.
Proverbs 14: The Fear of the Lord
Key Verses:
- Proverbs 14:2: “Whoever fears the LORD walks uprightly, but those who despise him are devious in their ways.”
- Proverbs 14:27: “The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death.”
Reverence for God leads to upright living and serves as a source of spiritual nourishment, helping us embrace the abundant life God desires for us.
Proverbs 15: The Power of Our Words
Proverbs 15 emphasizes the impact of our words. Gentle and wise words can defuse anger and bring life, much like a tree offering shade and fruit.
Key Concepts:
- A soft answer turns away anger.
- Gentle words are a tree of life.
- Wise individuals listen to constructive criticism.
- Fools despise correction and discipline.
By seeking knowledge, thinking before speaking, and surrounding ourselves with wise advisors, we can harness the power of our words for good.
Proverbs 16: Living with Integrity and Trust in God
- Proverbs 16:3: “Commit your actions to the LORD, and your plans will succeed.”
- Proverbs 16:8: “Better to have little, with godliness, than to be rich and dishonest.”
- Proverbs 16:9: “We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.”
Proverbs 16 highlights the importance of living with integrity, humility, and trust in God. By committing our actions to the Lord, we align our plans with His will, leading to success and righteousness.
Word of the Day: Reverence
Definition: Deep respect for someone or something. It comes from a gesture indicative of respect, like a bow or curtsy.
Proverbs 14:26: "In the fear of the LORD one has strong confidence, and his children will have a refuge."
Reverence for God provides confidence and assurance in His faithfulness, extending blessings to future generations. It’s a powerful legacy that can impact our children and their descendants.
Generational Impact of Reverence
Reverence for God can have a lasting impact across generations. A family deeply rooted in faith can stand strong even in challenging circumstances. My daughter Leslie’s family, part of the Christian Brethren Church in the Czech Republic, exemplifies this. Despite historical adversities, their reverence for God has been a refuge and blessing, leaving a legacy of faith for future generations.
Personal Reflection
How are you revering God today? What does this reverence look like in your daily life? Fostering a deep reverence for our Heavenly Father is essential for reflecting His greatness. Solomon’s life is a testament to using God-given wisdom humbly to demonstrate God’s greatness to the nations.
Proverbs 14-16 remind us to live with reverence, integrity, and trust in God. By committing our actions to the Lord and seeking His wisdom, we align our lives with His will, experiencing His favor and blessings. Let’s immerse ourselves in these proverbs and apply their wisdom, living godly lives that reflect our deep respect for God.
June 1
Proverbs 17-19
Keeping a Sensible Perspective
Proverbs 17: Wisdom, Justice, and Family
- Proverbs 17:3: “The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, but the Lord tests hearts.”
- Proverbs 17:20: “One whose heart is corrupt finds no good; and one whose tongue is perverse falls into trouble.”
As we age, we learn that true character is often revealed during difficult times. Hardships test our hearts, revealing hidden flaws and false beliefs. It’s during these moments that we see our true selves and realize the importance of aligning our desires with God’s will. Testing is challenging, but it’s a divine opportunity to purify our hearts and strengthen our faith.
Isaiah 26:8 reflects a pure heart’s desire:
"Yes, LORD, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts."
Proverbs 18: The Power of the Tongue
- Proverbs 18:2: “Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions.”
- Proverbs 18:10: “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.”
Proverbs 18 underscores the impact of our words. Foolish words lead to conflict and ruin, while wise words are life-giving and protective. Our speech can be a source of wisdom and safety when we rely on the Lord.
Proverbs 19: Controlling Anger
Proverbs 19:11: "Sensible people control their temper; they earn respect by overlooking wrongs."
This ties into Proverbs 16:32:
"Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city."
Anger is a powerful emotion, often rooted in deeper issues like abuse, abandonment, and pain. Understanding this helps us manage our reactions. Sensible people use good judgment and remain level-headed, recognizing that others’ anger often has little to do with them personally. Developing this perspective feels like a superpower, allowing us to navigate conflicts with grace and wisdom.
Word of the Day: Sensible
Definition: Having, using, or showing good sense or sound judgment. A sensible person is level-headed, calm, and makes wise decisions.
Exercising Good Judgment
Proverbs teaches us the value of wisdom and being level-headed. With age, I’ve learned that it’s not all about me. Here are practical ways to exercise good judgment:
- Stay Calm: Others’ anger doesn’t have to affect you.
- Avoid Quarrels: Choose not to engage in conflicts.
- Set Boundaries: Recognize when it’s not your responsibility to solve others’ problems.
- Discern Rumors: Don’t spread rumors; defend those who are wronged.
Being sensible means leaning into God and trusted individuals while stepping back from those set on their own ways. Wisdom involves not wearing ourselves out trying to fix others, but speaking the truth and welcoming those willing to listen. Change must come from within, and only those who choose to change can truly transform.
Living Sensibly
Living sensibly involves making wise decisions and maintaining calmness and good sense. By doing so, we reflect the wisdom found in Proverbs and demonstrate a life guided by godly principles.
