September 1, 2011

Proverbs 18:1-8 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Luke 20:19-26, Hebrews 1:1-9, Isaiah1-2

Journal Entry

Scripture

"Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire;
he breaks out against all sound judgment.
A fool takes no pleasure in understanding,
but only in expressing his opinion" (Proverbs 18:1-2).

Observation

Throughout the book of Proverbs, we are given examples after examples of the foolish lifestyle from which we are called to stay away as children of God. The selected verses from today's reading features yet another example of a foolish lifestyle. In short, a fool lives a life of isolation. So, what are the marks of a life of isolation? First, a foolish person is self-centered person whose life revolves around his or her "want's" and thus makes no room for others--ie. to speak into their lives with the sound council (18:1). Second, a foolish person is prideful as he or she does not care to learn from others but only cares to share his or her thought to others (18:2). According to the passage, I, too, am a fool for I so often find myself seeking my own interests rather than looking after the interests of others. I also must confess that I am prideful at heart though I might cover it up with the facade of humility.

Application

I will break out of isolation by paying attention to those whom God brings my way throughout this day and learn from them all that God wants to teach me through them today.

Prayer

Abba Father, I adore and worship you this morning. I am amazed by your great patience and unending love for me despite my constant failures to obey you. I confess that I am a fool who is self-centered and prideful at heart. So, Holy Spirit, would you empower me by your grace to overcome my pride and self-centeredness so that I may be able to alight my heart and my actions to your will today. It is in Christ name I pray. Amen.

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