Words of wisdom
‘Do you ever wonder what it takes to please God? It couldn’t be clearer than
in the book of Proverbs.’ So writes Luis Palau at the beginning of his series.
‘Every basic, fundamental issue you will face in your life is plainly addressed
within its pages.’
In sharp contrast, Jonny Baker presents us with Joel’s picture of a nation
under God’s judgement in the throes of huge disaster. Here, the ‘message is edgy,
apocalyptic and controversial’. Yet there is hope too. As Jonny writes, the
‘challenge is whether we are able to keep believing and remain faithful when
life is difficult.’
Jealousy, violence, conspiracy – obedience and disobedience to God – are all
found in the stories of Saul and David as recorded in 1 Samuel. David Dewey
leads us to the heart of the matter. What God is concerned about is not outward
impressiveness, but what we’re like on the inside: David is described as a person
‘after the Lord’s heart’ (1 Samuel 13:14).
‘Righteousness’ is a key theme in Romans. As writer Steve Silvester explains,
Paul is writing to Christians who, like us, find themselves at the heart of a
culture that does not recognise Jesus as Lord. He shows them – and us – how to
live as ‘resident aliens’.
As you read God’s Word this month may you discover his wisdom which leads you –
in the midst of a troubled world – to dependence on and ever increasing knowledge
of him: ‘Blessed is the man who finds wisdom … nothing you desire can compare
with her (Proverbs 3:13–15, NIV).
‘Tricia Williams
Editor, Daily Bread